Nothing says cozy like a hearty beef stew tucked inside a crusty bread bowl. Tender chunks of beef, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, herbed broth come together in this satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners, game nights, or any day you crave comfort food that feels like a hug.
Beef Stew in a Bread Bowl
Ingredients (Beef Stew)
| INGREDIENTS | AMOUNT |
|---|---|
| Stewing beef, cut into cubes | 1 1/2 pounds (680g) |
| All-purpose flour | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste |
| Vegetable oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Large onion, chopped | 1 |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Carrots, peeled and sliced | 3 |
| Potatoes, peeled and diced | 3 |
| Celery stalks, chopped | 2 |
| Diced tomatoes | 1 can (14 ounces) |
| Beef broth | 4 cups |
| Worcestershire sauce | 2 teaspoons |
| Dried thyme | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried rosemary | 1 teaspoon |
| Bay leaf | 1 |
| Frozen peas | 1 cup |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | For garnish |
Ingredients (Bread Bowls)
| INGREDIENTS | AMOUNT |
|---|---|
| Round bread loaves (sourdough or Italian) | 4 |
| Butter for brushing | Optional |
How To Make Beef Stew in a Bread Bowl:
For the Beef Stew:
Step 1: Prep and Brown Beef: Season the cubed beef with salt and black pepper. Toss with flour until evenly coated. Heat vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef on all sides, then remove and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for a few minutes until fragrant and translucent.
Step 3: Combine and Simmer: Return the beef to the pot. Add carrots, potatoes, celery, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
Step 4: Cook Stew: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1 1/2–2 hours, stirring occasionally, until beef is tender and vegetables are cooked through.
Step 5: Finish Stew: About 10 minutes before serving, stir in frozen peas and cook until warmed through. Adjust salt and pepper as needed and remove the bay leaf.
For the Bread Bowls:
Step 6: Prep Bread: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut a circular opening from the top of each loaf and hollow out the inside, leaving about a 1/2-inch thick shell.
Step 7: Toast (Optional): Brush the inside with melted butter if desired. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 5–7 minutes until lightly toasted.
To Serve:
Step 8: Fill and Garnish: Spoon the hot beef stew into each bread bowl. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately for a warm, comforting meal that’s as fun to eat as it is delicious.
