Crispy potato-topped beef stew

Crispy Potato-Topped Beef Stew combines tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich sauce, topped with golden, crispy potatoes. This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners.

29 Jan 2026
Cook time 140 min
Prep time 20 min

Ingredients:

2 tbsp olive oil
2 lb beef
1 red onion
2 carrots
1 stalk celery
1 cup mushrooms
1 tbsp fresh thyme
2 bay leafs
1 cup red wine
2 cups pasta sauce
1/2 cup beef broth
1 short spray cooking spray oil
3 potatoes
1 tsp salt

Welcome to our recipe for Crispy Potato-Topped Beef Stew! This dish is a perfect blend of tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a savory sauce, all crowned with a layer of crispy golden potatoes. It's a comforting and flavorful meal that will surely become a family favorite.

Instructions:

1. Prep the Ingredients:
- Dice the red onion.
- Slice the carrots.
- Chop the celery.
- Slice the mushrooms.
- Thinly slice the potatoes.

2. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

3. Brown the Beef:
- In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef chunks and sear them on all sides until they are browned. This takes about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef and set it aside.

4. Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add the diced red onion, sliced carrots, chopped celery, and sliced mushrooms.
- Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.

5. Combine Ingredients:
- Return the browned beef to the pot.
- Add the fresh thyme, bay leaves, red wine, pasta sauce, and beef broth.
- Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

6. Simmer the Stew:
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

7. Prepare the Potato Topping:
- While the stew is simmering, preheat the oven broiler to high.
- Lightly spray a baking sheet with cooking spray oil.
- Arrange the thinly sliced potatoes on the baking sheet in a single layer.
- Sprinkle 1 tsp of salt evenly over the potatoes.

8. Crisp the Potatoes:
- Broil the potatoes for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.

9. Top the Stew:
- After the stew has simmered, turn off the heat and remove the bay leaves.
- Carefully arrange the crispy potatoes on top of the stew in the pot.

10. Bake the Stew:
- Place the pot in the preheated oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for another 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to further develop and the potatoes to meld with the stew.

11. Finish and Serve:
- Remove the pot from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
- Serve hot, making sure everyone gets a good portion of beef, vegetables, and crispy potatoes.

Crispy Potato-Topped Beef Stew is the ultimate comfort food that combines rich, savory flavors with a satisfying crunch. Serve it hot and enjoy the delightful contrast of textures and full-bodied taste. It's a hearty meal that will warm you from the inside out.

Crispy potato-topped beef stew FAQ:

What is the baking time for the beef stew with crispy potatoes?

After arranging the crispy potatoes on top of the stew, bake it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the potatoes to integrate with the stew.

How can I ensure the potatoes on top get crispy?

Broil the sliced potatoes for 10-15 minutes before adding them to the stew. Make sure they are evenly arranged and lightly salted for the best crispiness.

What size pot do I need for this beef stew?

A large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven is recommended. It should be spacious enough to hold the beef and vegetables, typically around 6-8 quarts.

Can I substitute the red wine in this recipe?

If you prefer not to use red wine, you can substitute it with an equal amount of beef broth or grape juice. Keep in mind that this may alter the flavor profile slightly.

How should I store leftover beef stew?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the stew for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Cooking Tips:

- For the best flavor, use a good quality red wine and pasta sauce.

- Cut the potatoes thinly and evenly for a uniformly crispy topping.

- Let the beef stew simmer slowly to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.

- Ensure the potatoes are pat dry before placing them on top to achieve maximum crispiness.

- You can use a mandoline slicer for even and thin potato slices.

- Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on your preference.

Nutrition Facts

6 Servings
Calories 630kcal
Protein 50g
Carbohydrates 30g
Fiber 6g
Sugar 9g
Fat 33g

Crispy potato-topped beef stew