Keto Beef Stew Recipe

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Cozy Keto Beef Stew Recipe, Made Simple

There’s something so comforting about a warm bowl of stew on a quiet weekend afternoon, isn’t there? This Keto Beef Stew Recipe has become one of my favorite go-to dishes when I want something hearty without the carb overload. The moment the rich aroma of seared beef and fragrant herbs fills the kitchen, you know you’re in for a treat. You’ll find it’s surprisingly easy to pull together, even if you’re new to keto cooking. I love how the cauliflower and green beans add a fresh, crisp texture that balances the tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef. Slowly simmered in savory broth, it feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just craving something cozy, this stew hits the spot every time. Let’s dive in and make a Keto Beef Stew Recipe that’s both simple and satisfying.

Ingredient Lowdown

• Beef chuck (2 lbs): Perfectly marbled for tender, juicy chunks after slow cooking.
• Olive oil (3 tbsp): Adds richness and helps develop a beautiful sear on the beef.
• Onion (1 medium): Brings sweetness and depth when softened to golden perfection.
• Garlic (3 cloves): Offers fragrant warmth to brighten the stew’s flavor.
• Beef broth (4 cups): The hearty base that ties everything together with savory goodness.
• Cauliflower florets (2 cups): Low-carb stand-in for potatoes, adding creaminess and body.
• Green beans (1 cup): Provides a slight crunch and fresh, bright flavor contrast.
• Dried thyme & rosemary (1 tsp each): Classic herbs bringing earthiness and a rustic aroma.
• Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.

Set Up for Success

Before you start, take a moment to prep all your ingredients—dice the onion, trim and cut your green beans, and cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Having everything ready makes the cooking process so much smoother, especially since the stew comes together quickly once you start. I always find mise en place helps the kitchen rhythm feel way more relaxed. Use a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven for even heat distribution and the best sear on your beef cubes, which is key for flavor depth. You won’t need the oven for this recipe—just stovetop simmering at low heat for tender results.

Step-by-Step: Keto Beef Stew Recipe

1. Heat olive oil in your large pot over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, add the beef cubes carefully. Sear them without moving for a few minutes until a toasty, golden crust forms. This Maillard browning is what gives your stew that rich beefy depth. Flip and brown all sides, then transfer the meat to a plate.
2. Sauté diced onion and minced garlic in the same pot. With all those brown bits from the beef at the bottom, the onions soak up flavor beautifully as they soften—about 5 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
3. Return the beef to the pot and pour in the beef broth. Add cauliflower florets, trimmed green beans, dried thyme, rosemary, and season with salt and pepper. Stir gently to combine.
4. Bring the stew to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let it cook slowly for about 1.5 to 2 hours, until the beef is tender and succulent. This slow simmer unfolds layers of flavor and gives you that buttery texture that just melts in your mouth.
5. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve hot. If you have fresh herbs on hand, a sprinkle of chopped parsley or thyme adds a lovely fresh note on top.

Flavor Twists for Keto Beef Stew Recipe

• Swap cauliflower for turnips or rutabaga to change up the root veggie profile.
• Add a splash of coconut aminos for a subtle umami twist that’s soy-free and keto-friendly.
• Try fresh rosemary and thyme instead of dried for a brighter herbal punch.
• Stir in chopped kale or spinach in the last 10 minutes for a nutrient-packed green boost.
• For a creamy twist, swirl in a dollop of sour cream or coconut cream just before serving.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Cool the stew completely before transferring to airtight containers for the fridge—ideal for up to 4 days.
• This stew freezes beautifully; portion it out and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.
• Make the beef and broth base ahead, then add veggies fresh when reheating to keep their texture vibrant.

Keto Beef Stew Recipe FAQs

• Can I use other cuts of beef? Absolutely! Chuck is ideal for tenderness, but brisket or short ribs work well too—just adjust cooking times accordingly.
• Is this recipe suitable for slow cookers? Yes, you can brown the beef first then transfer everything to a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours to get a similar tender result.
• How do I keep my veggies from getting mushy? Add more delicate vegetables like green beans or cauliflower during the last 30 minutes of cooking to maintain some bite.
• Can I make this stew spicier? Definitely! A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika adds warmth without overwhelming the flavors.
• What’s the best way to thicken the stew on keto? Use a small amount of xanthan gum or reduce the broth while simmering—both keep it keto-friendly without flour or starches.

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