Keto Beef Stew

There’s a distinct comfort in a hearty bowl of stew, and this Keto Beef Stew brings all that coziness without the carbs. Tender chunks of beef, savory broth, and hearty low-carb vegetables come together to create pure satisfaction in every bite. It’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for chilly nights.

I love preparing this stew when the weather cools down. As it simmers, it fills the house with irresistible aroma. Plus, it’s one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day — perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

Why I Love This Keto Beef Stew

This recipe combines ease, flavor, and comfort beautifully. It’s quick to prep, slow-cooked to perfection, and wonderfully filling. It’s ideal for:

• Busy Evenings: Hands-off cooking with fantastic results.
• Entertaining: Simple enough for weeknights but impressive enough for guests.
• Comfort Food Cravings: Satisfying and indulgent without the carbs.

Keto Beef Stew Ingredients

This recipe uses wholesome, low-carb ingredients that yield a deep, savory flavor and gorgeous texture.

• Beef Stew Meat: Choose chuck roast or a similarly marbled cut for fall-apart tenderness.
• Olive Oil: Helps sear the beef and develop rich flavor.
• Yellow Onion & Garlic: Build flavor and sweetness as they cook.
• Beef Broth: A flavorful base that ties everything together.
• Celery, Radishes, and Green Beans: Provide hearty body and texture — radishes mimic potatoes beautifully.
• Thyme, Rosemary, Smoked Paprika, and Bay Leaf: Add warmth, aroma, and depth.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors.
• Xanthan Gum: A keto-friendly thickener to give the stew that traditional, rich consistency.

Substitutions and Tips

• Add diced tomatoes or a splash of red wine for more complexity — omit if keeping carbs very low.
• Use fresh herbs if available (1 tablespoon fresh = 1 teaspoon dried).
• For extra richness, stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end.
• Feel free to add mushrooms or zucchini for more variety and texture.

How to Make Keto Beef Stew

Making this comforting stew is simple and rewarding — just a few easy steps yield a truly memorable meal.

Step 1: Sear the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat. Pat beef cubes dry and season generously with salt and pepper. Sear the beef in batches until browned on all sides, about 2–3 minutes per batch. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Deglaze and Build the Broth

Pour in the beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to lift any flavorful browned bits. If using red wine, add it now. This forms the rich base of your stew.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

Return the seared beef (and any juices) to the pot. Stir in diced tomatoes if using, along with thyme, rosemary, smoked paprika, and the bay leaf. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Lower the heat, cover, and simmer gently for 1½ hours or until the beef is tender.

Step 5: Add the Vegetables

Add celery, chopped radishes, and green beans to the pot. Continue simmering uncovered for 30–45 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 6: Thicken and Finish

Remove the bay leaf. In a small bowl, whisk xanthan gum with a splash of heavy cream to create a slurry. Slowly add it to the stew while stirring continuously to prevent clumping. Simmer until the stew thickens to your liking — it should coat the back of a spoon.

Step 7: Taste and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy this hearty, comforting keto meal with every savory bite!

How to Store Keto Beef Stew

Let the stew cool completely before storing. Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers even better. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Tips for Success

• Sear properly: Don’t rush this step — browning adds incredible flavor depth.
• Simmer low and slow: Ensures melt-in-your-mouth beef and well-developed flavors.
• Thicken gradually: Add xanthan gum slowly to prevent lumps and over-thickening.
• Taste often: Season as you go for perfect balance.
• Use good broth: A flavorful beef stock makes all the difference.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Large Dutch oven or heavy saucepan for even cooking
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk for blending the slurry or thickener
• Wooden spoon for stirring

Serving Suggestions

• Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color and freshness.
• Pair with keto-friendly bread or cheesy cauliflower mash.
• Enjoy with a crisp green salad to balance the richness.
• A glass of dry red wine complements the flavors perfectly.
• Add a small dollop of sour cream for an indulgent finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Keto Beef Stew ahead of time?

Yes! This dish is perfect for meal prep. The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers even tastier. Simply reheat gently before serving.

What if I don’t have xanthan gum?

If xanthan gum isn’t available, use psyllium husk powder or let the stew simmer uncovered longer to naturally reduce and thicken.

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Absolutely. Chuck roast or brisket are great alternatives because of their marbling and tenderness after slow cooking.

How do I make this stew spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne, crushed red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeño with the onions for extra heat.

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