Nothing beats the cozy allure of Cracker Barrel’s beef stew on a chilly evening—it’s our go-to for that hearty, homestyle comfort straight from the South. We’ve perfected this recipe to capture the rich flavors of tender beef, veggies and savory broth that make it a diner favorite.
Ingredients
To bring the comforting, hearty flavors of our Cracker Barrel Beef Stew Recipe to life, we’ve compiled a precise list of ingredients below. We order them as they’ll be used in the preparation, with notes on any necessary prep for optimal results.
Meat and Base
- Beef: 2 pounds of chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes for tender, melt-in-your-mouth pieces that form the heart of this stew.
- Vegetable oil: 2 tablespoons, for browning the beef to lock in those rich, savory flavors.
Vegetables
- Onion: 1 large yellow onion, diced, to build a flavorful base with its sweet, aromatic essence.
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced, for adding a bold, pungent kick that enhances the stew’s Southern homestyle profile.
- Carrots: 4 medium carrots, sliced into ½-inch rounds, to provide a slight crunch and natural sweetness.
- Celery: 3 stalks, chopped, for a fresh, earthy contrast that complements the tender beef.
- Potatoes: 4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, cubed into 1-inch pieces, to absorb the savory broth and add comforting texture.
Liquids and Seasonings
- Beef broth: 4 cups low-sodium, to create a robust, flavorful liquid base that mimics Cracker Barrel’s diner-favorite stew.
- Tomato paste: 2 tablespoons, for deepening the color and adding a subtle tangy depth.
- All-purpose flour: ¼ cup, for thickening, to give the stew its signature hearty consistency.
- Thyme: 1 teaspoon dried thyme, or 2 teaspoons fresh chopped, to infuse herbal notes typical of Southern cuisine.
- Bay leaves: 2 whole leaves, for a gentle, aromatic infusion that elevates the overall broth.
- Salt and pepper: 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper, to taste, ensuring a well-balanced seasoning that highlights the dish’s tender beef and vegetables.
Equipment Needed
To bring our Cracker Barrel Beef Stew to life with minimal fuss, we rely on a few essential tools that ensure even cooking and flavorful results. In our experience, having the right equipment makes all the difference in achieving that hearty, homestyle texture.
Here’s a detailed list of the key items we recommend:
- Large Dutch Oven or Heavy-Bottomed Pot: Ideal for searing the beef and simmering the stew to lock in flavors and prevent sticking. We suggest one that holds at least 6 quarts for this recipe.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife: Essential for precisely chopping vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery to the right size for even cooking.
- Cutting Board: A sturdy, non-slip board to provide a safe surface for all our prep work, keeping things organized and efficient.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate for portioning out ingredients such as beef broth, flour, and seasonings to maintain the stew’s balanced taste.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Perfect for stirring and scraping the pot without damaging the surface, especially when browning meat or thickening the broth.
- Ladle: Handy for serving up generous portions of the finished stew, ensuring you capture every bit of that savory goodness.
With these tools in hand, we’re set to transition smoothly from preparing ingredients to cooking our delicious Cracker Barrel Beef Stew.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, let’s walk through the steps to create our comforting Cracker Barrel Beef Stew. We’ll ensure every detail delivers tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, savory broth that captures the essence of homestyle Southern cooking.
Prep
Before we start cooking, we’ll prepare our ingredients to build layers of flavor in our stew. Begin by patting 2 pounds of chuck roast dry with paper towels and cutting it into 1-inch cubes for even browning and tenderness. Next, peel and dice 1 large onion and 4 cloves of garlic into fine pieces to release their aromatic essence.
Move on to the vegetables: Wash and slice 4 medium carrots and 3 stalks of celery into ½-inch pieces, ensuring they’re uniform for consistent cooking. Then, scrub 4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes and cut them into 1-inch chunks, leaving the skins on for added texture and nutrients. In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of pepper, and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme to create a seasoning mix that will thicken our broth beautifully.
Finally, measure out 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and have 4 cups of low-sodium beef broth ready at hand. This prep work sets the stage for a stew where the savory broth melds with the hearty chunks of beef and vegetables.
Cook
With our ingredients prepped, we’ll now cook the stew in our large Dutch oven to achieve that deep, flavorful profile. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat in the pot, then add the cubed chuck roast and sear it for 5-7 minutes until browned on all sides, allowing the rich aroma of caramelized beef to fill the kitchen.
Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside, then add the diced onion and garlic to the pot. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant, stirring with a wooden spoon to scrape up the flavorful bits from the bottom. Return the beef to the pot along with the sliced carrots, celery, and potato chunks, then stir in the seasoning mix and tomato paste to coat everything evenly.
Pour in the beef broth and add 2 bay leaves for extra depth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer covered for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fork-tender and the vegetables are perfectly soft. Throughout this process, the stew’s hearty flavors intensify, creating a warm, inviting dish that evokes the comfort of a Cracker Barrel meal.
Serve
To serve our Cracker Barrel Beef Stew, ladle the hot, steaming portions into bowls, making sure each one includes generous chunks of tender beef and colorful vegetables swimming in the savory broth. We recommend pairing it with crusty bread or over fluffy rice to soak up the rich flavors, and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness that enhances the dish’s homestyle appeal.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the beauties of our Cracker Barrel Beef Stew is how it lends itself to make-ahead preparation, letting the hearty flavors of tender beef, savory broth, and fresh vegetables deepen over time for an even more comforting meal. We recommend planning ahead to save time and enhance taste, ensuring your stew remains a go-to option for cozy family dinners.
Preparing Ingredients in Advance
To get a head start, we suggest prepping your ingredients up to 24 hours before cooking. This step keeps everything organized and minimizes last-minute effort:
- Cube the beef: Cut 2 pounds of chuck roast into 1-inch cubes, then pat dry with paper towels and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This ensures the beef sears perfectly when you’re ready to cook.
- Chop the vegetables: Dice 1 large onion and 4 cloves of garlic; slice 4 carrots and 3 celery stalks into ½-inch pieces; and cube 4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes. Place them in separate sealed bags or containers to prevent sogginess, and refrigerate.
- Mix dry seasonings: Combine 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 2 bay leaves, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of pepper in a small bowl or jar. This blend will be ready to thicken and flavor your broth effortlessly.
Cooking and Storing the Stew
For full make-ahead convenience, cook the entire stew and store it to let flavors intensify. Follow our step-by-step instructions from the previous section—sear the beef until golden brown, sauté the aromatics, and simmer everything together until tender—but plan to prepare it 1 to 3 days in advance.
Once cooled to room temperature (about 30 minutes), transfer the stew to airtight containers. The rich, earthy aroma will fill your kitchen as it cools, promising a more robust taste later. For optimal freshness and safety, use the guidelines in the table below:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 3 days | Store in shallow containers for quick cooling; stir before reheating to redistribute the savory juices. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers; label with the date to track freshness and avoid waste. |
Reheating for Peak Flavor
When it’s time to enjoy, reheat your stew gently to preserve its tender texture and bold flavors. In a large pot on the stove, warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon until it reaches a simmer—about 10 to 15 minutes for refrigerated stew or 20 to 25 minutes for frozen (after thawing overnight in the fridge). The steam will release an irresistible scent of thyme-infused broth and caramelized vegetables, making your home feel like a cozy diner. If the stew thickens too much, add a splash of beef broth to restore its hearty consistency. Always check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe serving.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing how to bring Cracker Barrel’s beef stew into your kitchen, capturing that warm, homestyle essence.
It’s a simple way to create comforting meals that feel just right for family gatherings or chilly nights.
By trying this recipe, you’ll discover the joy of homemade flavors that keep us coming back for more.
Let’s make it a staple in our routine for those feel-good dinners.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients in Cracker Barrel’s beef stew?
The key ingredients include 2 pounds of chuck roast, vegetable oil, onions, garlic, carrots, celery, Yukon Gold potatoes, low-sodium beef broth, tomato paste, all-purpose flour, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. These combine to create a hearty, flavorful Southern-style stew.
What equipment do I need to make Cracker Barrel’s beef stew?
You’ll need a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot for even cooking, a sharp chef’s knife and sturdy cutting board for prep, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, and a wooden spoon or silicone spatula for stirring. A ladle is useful for serving.
How do I prepare Cracker Barrel’s beef stew step by step?
Start by cubing the chuck roast and chopping vegetables. Sear the beef in a pot with oil, then sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Add potatoes, broth, tomato paste, flour, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Simmer until tender, about 1-2 hours. Serve hot with bread or rice, garnished with parsley.
Can I make Cracker Barrel’s beef stew ahead of time?
Yes, prep ingredients up to 24 hours in advance by cubing beef, chopping veggies, and mixing seasonings. Cook the full stew and store it for 1-3 days in the fridge or freeze for longer. This allows flavors to deepen, making it ideal for busy schedules.
How should I store and reheat Cracker Barrel’s beef stew?
Store cooled stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until it reaches 165°F, stirring occasionally to maintain texture and flavor.
Why is Cracker Barrel’s beef stew comforting for cold evenings?
It’s a hearty, homestyle dish with tender beef, fresh vegetables, and a savory broth that evokes Southern comfort. The warm, flavorful combination makes it perfect for cozy nights, offering a satisfying meal that feels like a diner favorite at home.
What tips ensure the best results with Cracker Barrel’s beef stew?
Use fresh ingredients and sear the beef for rich flavor. Simmer on low heat for tender results, and let it rest before serving to enhance taste. Pair with crusty bread or rice, and garnish with parsley for added freshness. Always check seasoning to taste.