This comforting beef and onion stew is rich, warm, and full of deep flavors. Tender chunks of beef simmer slowly with caramelized onions, broth, and simple seasonings until the sauce becomes thick and flavorful. The highlight of this dish is the cheesy garlic toast on top, which adds a crispy, golden layer that pairs perfectly with the hearty stew underneath.
It’s a complete cozy meal in one bowl, ideal for cold days or anytime you crave something satisfying and homemade.
Ingredients
For the Stew
- 700 g beef chunks
- 4 large onions, sliced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 bay leaf
- Optional: thyme, parsley
For the Cheesy Toast
- Slices of baguette or crusty bread
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheese
Instructions
1. Brown the Beef
Heat a large pot over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Place the beef chunks in the pot and brown them on all sides. This step builds flavor. Remove the beef and set aside.
2. Caramelize the Onions
Add butter to the pot. Once melted, add the sliced onions. Cook slowly, stirring often, until the onions turn golden and soft. This step takes time but gives the stew its rich flavor.
3. Add Garlic and Flour
Add minced garlic and cook briefly. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir to coat. This will help thicken the stew later.
4. Add Liquids and Seasonings
Pour in the beef broth and stir until the mixture thickens slightly. Return the browned beef to the pot. Add Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, salt, paprika, and a bay leaf. Bring the stew to a simmer.
5. Slow Cook
Cover the pot and let the stew cook gently on low heat for about 1½ to 2 hours, or until the beef becomes tender and the sauce is rich. Stir occasionally.
If you want a thicker stew, simmer uncovered during the last 15 minutes.
6. Make the Cheesy Garlic Toast
In a small bowl, mix softened butter with garlic. Spread the mixture on each bread slice. Add shredded cheese on top. Toast in an oven or air fryer until the cheese is melted and golden.
7. Serve
Ladle the hot stew into bowls. Place the cheesy garlic toast on top. The crispy bread soaks beautifully into the sauce, creating the perfect combination of textures.
Flavor and Texture
This dish is all about comforting warmth and deep savory richness. The slow-cooked beef becomes incredibly soft. The onions melt into the sauce, providing sweetness and depth. The broth thickens into a glossy gravy that coats each piece of meat perfectly.
The cheesy garlic toast adds crunch, aroma, and a gooey warmth that complements the stew wonderfully.
Tips for Best Results
- Slice onions evenly so they caramelize consistently.
- Let the beef brown well to build more flavor.
- Use a heavy pot or Dutch oven for even cooking.
- Add extra broth if you prefer a thinner stew.
- Try mixing cheddar and mozzarella for the toast topping.
Variations
- Add mushrooms for extra texture.
- Use chicken instead of beef for a lighter stew.
- Add a splash of red wine for depth.
- Use sourdough or ciabatta for the cheesy toast.
Serving Ideas
This stew can stand alone as a full meal. But you can also serve it with:
- Mashed potatoes
- Steamed vegetables
- A fresh salad
- Extra garlic toast on the side
Storage
Let the stew cool completely before storing.
- Refrigerator: Up to 3 days
- Freezer: Up to 2 months
Reheat gently on the stove. Toast the bread fresh when serving again.