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Hearty High-Protein Lean Beef Stew

hearty high-protein lean beef stew - featured image

A comforting and nourishing lean beef stew packed with protein and fresh vegetables, perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds lean beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin recommended)
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 4 small red potatoes, quartered
  • 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: red pepper flakes for a subtle kick

Instructions

  1. Prep your ingredients: Cut lean beef into 1-inch cubes, dice onion, mince garlic, and chop all vegetables as described (about 15 minutes).
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown beef cubes in batches for 3-4 minutes per batch until golden. Transfer beef to a plate.
  3. Lower heat to medium. Add diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  4. Deglaze the pot with about 1/4 cup beef broth, scraping the bottom with a wooden spoon to lift browned bits.
  5. Return beef to the pot. Add remaining beef broth, diced tomatoes with juice, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil.
  6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer gently for 30 minutes.
  7. Add carrots, celery, and potatoes. Cover and cook for another 15 minutes.
  8. Stir in green beans and cook uncovered for 10 more minutes until all vegetables are tender but not mushy.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Remove bay leaves before serving.

Notes

Browning the beef properly is key for deep flavor. Add vegetables in stages to avoid overcooking. Keep heat low during simmering to keep beef tender. If stew is too thick, add broth or water; if too thin, simmer uncovered longer. Can be adapted for slow cooker or Instant Pot.

Nutrition

Keywords: beef stew, lean beef, high protein, healthy dinner, easy stew, weeknight meal, comfort food, homemade stew