This beef stew with potato topping is the ultimate comfort food, combining rich, slow-simmered beef with hearty vegetables and a buttery mashed potato crust that gets golden and crisp in the oven. It’s like a cozy shepherd’s pie but with deeper flavors, thanks to the slow cooking and savory broth.

Whether you’re looking for a soul-warming meal on a chilly night or something impressive yet nostalgic for Sunday dinner, this dish checks every box. The tender beef, flavorful gravy, and fluffy mashed potatoes come together in a way that’s both rustic and indulgent. One bite and you’ll see why this is the kind of meal people request again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Beef Stew with Potato Topping

This dish is more than just another stew. It delivers layers of taste and texture that make it stand out. The beef is melt-in-your-mouth tender, the gravy is thick and seasoned just right, and the mashed potatoes on top turn lightly crispy while staying creamy underneath. It’s also a fantastic make-ahead meal that tastes even better the next day.

What Kind of Beef Should I Use?

Chuck roast is the go-to for this kind of stew. It breaks down beautifully over a low simmer, becoming tender without falling apart completely. You can also use stewing beef or brisket, but make sure to cut it into uniform cubes to help it cook evenly. The key is choosing a cut with enough marbling so you get that juicy, rich flavor throughout the dish.

Ingredients for the Beef Stew with Potato Topping

This hearty recipe uses everyday staples, which makes it a great pick when you want comfort food without a grocery run.

Beef chuck roast – It gives the stew its signature tenderness and deep beefy flavor.

Yukon gold potatoes – These are mashed for the topping; they’re naturally buttery and mash up smooth.

Onions – They add sweetness and depth to the stew.

Carrots – For a little natural sweetness and a classic stew feel.

Celery – Adds earthiness and balances the richness.

Garlic – A must for boosting flavor.

Beef broth – Forms the base of the rich gravy.

Tomato paste – Deepens the flavor with a touch of acidity.

Worcestershire sauce – Brings a tangy umami element that rounds out the dish.

Butter and milk – For the creamy mashed potato topping.

Salt and pepper – Season to taste.

Olive oil – For browning the beef and sautéing vegetables.

How To Make the Beef Stew with Potato Topping

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven. Add beef chunks in batches and sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, then add garlic and cook another minute.

Step 3: Build the Stew Base

Return the beef to the pot. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook on low for 1.5 to 2 hours until the beef is tender.

Step 4: Make the Potato Topping

While the stew simmers, boil the potatoes until fork-tender. Mash them with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth and fluffy.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Preheat oven to 375°F. Pour the stew into a baking dish and spoon mashed potatoes on top. Use a fork to create ridges for browning. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the topping is golden.

Serving and Storing This Hearty Meal

This recipe comfortably feeds 6 and makes for amazing leftovers. Serve it hot straight from the oven with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or extra black pepper. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to a month—just thaw overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.

What to Serve With Beef Stew with Potato Topping?

A Simple Arugula Salad

Its peppery bite balances out the richness of the stew.

Crusty Artisan Bread

Perfect for scooping up that rich gravy.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Add a bit of crunch and bitterness that works beautifully with the creamy topping.

Steamed Green Beans

Light and snappy, a great contrast to the dense main dish.

Red Wine

A glass of cabernet or merlot complements the deep beef flavors.

Pickled Vegetables

A tangy contrast helps cut through the richness.

Baked Apples

For a sweet finish that still feels rustic and comforting.

Want More Cozy Casserole Ideas?

If you love this beef stew with potato topping, here are more warm, filling dishes to try:

• Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini when you’re craving creamy meets spicy.
• Cajun Potato Soup for a creamy, smoky bowl of comfort.
• Moms Signature Macaroni Salad if you’re into chilled creamy sides with big flavor.
• Creamy Chicken and Broccoli for another all-in-one oven favorite.
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes for an easy sheet pan meal with big payoff.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how it turned out for you. Did you add mushrooms or maybe some red wine to the stew? Did you sneak in some cheese into the mashed topping?

I love hearing how you make these recipes your own. Feel free to ask questions too, and let’s make comfort food even better together.

Explore beautifully curated comfort meal ideas on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next favorite dinner inspiration!

Conclusion

Beef stew with potato topping isn’t just a recipe; it’s a full-on experience in comfort cooking. It brings together the best of both worlds: hearty beef stew and creamy, golden mashed potatoes. Whether it’s a casual weeknight or a special gathering, this dish never fails to warm the belly and the heart.