20 Hearty Quick Stew Meat Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Are you tired of slaving away in the kitchen all evening, only to serve up a mediocre meal that leaves everyone feeling unfulfilled? Look no further! As a busy person, you deserve meals that are both delicious and quick to prepare. That’s why we’ve put together this list of 20 hearty quick stew meat recipes for busy weeknights.

From classic comfort food to international flavors, these stews are sure to satisfy your family’s hunger without sacrificing flavor or quality. And the best part? They’re all incredibly easy to make and can be ready in no time! Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes will become staples in your household.

In this article, we’ll dive into each of these mouthwatering stews, exploring the ingredients, cooking methods, and tips for making each one a success. So grab your apron, sharpen your knives, and get ready to dig in!

Beef and Mushroom Quick Stew

This hearty stew is a perfect solution for a weeknight dinner that’s both comforting and easy to prepare. With tender beef, earthy mushrooms, and flavorful broth, you’ll be enjoying a satisfying meal in no time.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside. Add more oil if needed, then sauté the onion and garlic until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme. Return the beef to the skillet, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the beef is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over mashed potatoes or crusty bread.

Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes

Spicy Tomato and Beef Stew

A hearty and flavorful stew that combines tender beef, sweet tomatoes, and a kick of heat from red pepper flakes. Perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb beef chuck, cut into 2-inch cubes
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes, then set aside.
2. Add onions and garlic; cook until softened. Add diced tomatoes, beef broth, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
3. Return the browned beef to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until the beef is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.

Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours

Quick Moroccan Lamb Stew

A flavorful and aromatic stew that’s ready in under an hour! This recipe combines tender lamb with a blend of warming spices, rich tomatoes, and fresh herbs to create a comforting and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or ground lamb
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add lamb and cook until browned, breaking into small pieces if using ground lamb. Remove from pot.
3. Reduce heat to medium, add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Stir in cumin, paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper; cook 1 minute.
5. Add tomatoes, broth, tomato paste, and browned lamb; bring to a boil.
6. Simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lamb is tender.
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with parsley before serving.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Hearty Bean and Stew Meat Chili

A comforting and flavorful chili recipe that’s perfect for a cold winter night. This hearty dish combines tender stew meat, creamy beans, and rich tomatoes for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb beef stew meat
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups cooked kidney beans
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup beef broth

Instructions:

1. Brown the stew meat in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the cooked beans, diced tomatoes, and beef broth.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the stew meat is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 45 minutes

Garlic Herb Beef Stew

This classic comfort food recipe is a perfect blend of tender beef, aromatic herbs, and savory garlic. Perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion, this stew is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds beef stew meat
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, carrots, celery, garlic, flour, thyme, and rosemary. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1 1/2 hours or until beef is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.

Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours

Crockpot Quick Stew Meat with Potatoes

A hearty and comforting meal that’s ready in no time! This recipe is perfect for a busy day when you need a warm, satisfying dinner without much fuss.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb stew meat (beef or pork)
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place the stew meat, potatoes, onion, and garlic in the Crockpot.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the beef broth and thyme. Pour the mixture over the ingredients in the Crockpot.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)

One-Pot Irish Stew

This classic recipe is a comforting and flavorful twist on traditional Irish stew, perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing meal. With just one pot to clean, you’ll be enjoying this satisfying dish in no time.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb lamb or beef, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add lamb or beef, cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion, garlic, potatoes, and peas & carrots; cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return lamb or beef to the pot and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour, or until meat is tender.

Cooking Time: 1 hour

Quick Bourguignon-Style Beef Stew

A classic French-inspired stew that’s ready in under an hour, this Quick Bourguignon-Style Beef Stew is a hearty and flavorful meal perfect for any day of the week. With tender beef, rich broth, and aromatic spices, you’ll be hooked!

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef chuck or brisket, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup red wine (such as Burgundy or Merlot)
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add broth, wine, tomato paste, bay leaf, and thyme.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until beef is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Smoky Chipotle Beef Stew

Savor the rich flavors of this hearty beef stew, infused with the deep smokiness of chipotles and a hint of spice. Perfect for a cozy night in.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs beef chuck or brisket, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 cups beef broth

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add beef; cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, chipotle pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add diced tomatoes and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 2 hours or until beef is tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

Cooking Time: 2 hours

Quick Hungarian Goulash

Experience the rich flavors of Hungary with this lightning-fast goulash recipe. In just under an hour, you’ll have a hearty and comforting meal perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb beef or pork, sliced into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced meat and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add chopped onions and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the cooked meat to the pot and add water. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let goulash cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.

Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes

Mediterranean Lamb Stew with Olives

Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean with this hearty and aromatic lamb stew, infused with the brininess of olives and a hint of warm spices. Perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 2-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup lamb broth or beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown lamb cubes in batches, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in olives, tomatoes, broth, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until lamb is tender.
5. Garnish with parsley, if desired. Serve hot over crusty bread or with a side of warm pita.

Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes

Easy Beef and Vegetable Stew

A hearty and comforting stew that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With tender beef, colorful vegetables, and rich broth, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef stew meat
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 2 cups of beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the potatoes, diced tomatoes, and beef broth to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Return the beef to the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until the beef is tender.

Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours

Speedy Korean Beef Stew (Soegogi-Jjigae)

This hearty and flavorful stew is a staple of Korean cuisine, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. With its rich beef broth, tender beef, and spicy kick, this Soegogi-Jjigae recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup water
– Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or wok, combine Gochujang, soy sauce, sugar, and 2 cups of beef broth. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Add the sliced beef and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Add the remaining 2 cups of beef broth and water. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and let stew cook for 10-15 minutes or until the beef is tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions, if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Quick Red Wine Braised Stew Meat

Elevate your weeknight dinner with this simple yet flavorful recipe. Rich red wine and tender stew meat combine for a hearty, comforting meal that’s ready in under an hour.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the stew meat, red wine, beef broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 45-50 minutes or until the meat is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Creamy Bacon and Beef Stew

This hearty stew combines tender beef, crispy bacon, and a rich creamy sauce for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 1/2 cup of heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
3. Remove the cooked bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.
4. Add the beef stew meat, potatoes, onion, garlic, and flour to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Gradually add the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
6. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes or until the beef is tender.
7. Stir in the heavy cream and cooked bacon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 2 hours

Thai Coconut Beef Stew

Thai Coconut Beef Stew: A flavorful and aromatic stew that combines the richness of coconut milk with the boldness of Thai spices, perfect for a comforting meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef cubes (such as chuck or round)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in curry paste and cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in coconut milk, broth, and water. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 30-40 minutes or until beef is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves before serving.

Cooking Time: 40 minutes

Quick BBQ Beer Stew

A hearty, comforting stew perfect for a chilly evening or a casual gathering with friends. This recipe combines the rich flavors of beer, tomato sauce, and BBQ seasoning to create a deliciously quick and easy meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb beef cubes (chuck or round)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beer (any type, but darker beers work best)
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 2 tbsp BBQ seasoning
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz potatoes, peeled and cubed
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the beef cubes over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Pour in the beer, tomato sauce, BBQ seasoning, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let stew for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Sausage and Stew Meat Cassoulet

This classic French-inspired dish combines the rich flavors of sausage and stew meat with creamy beans, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner. A slow-cooked casserole that’s easy to prepare and sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 lb beef stew meat
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup white beans (such as cannellini or navy)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking apart with spoon, until browned and cooked through (5-7 minutes). Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic to the same skillet; cook until softened (4-5 minutes).
4. Add stew meat, diced tomatoes, beans, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with cooked sausage.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes or until casserole is hot and bubbly.

Cooking Time: Approximately 2.5 hours

Lentil and Stew Meat Stew

This comforting stew combines the rich flavor of stew meat with the nutty taste of lentils, perfect for a cold winter’s day. With minimal preparation and hands-on time, this recipe is a great option for a quick and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound stew meat (beef or lamb), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the stew meat and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add the onions, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the stew meat to the pot and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until the lentils are tender.

Cooking Time: 1 hour

Quick Italian Tomato Basil Beef Stew

This hearty and flavorful stew is a perfect blend of tender beef, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil, all cooked to perfection in under an hour. Serve with crusty bread or over pasta for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add tomatoes, broth, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return beef to the pot and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 20-25 minutes or until beef is tender.
7. Stir in chopped basil. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Summary

Get ready for a delicious and stress-free dinner with these 20 hearty quick stew meat recipes perfect for busy weeknights. From classic beef and mushroom to international-inspired dishes like Moroccan lamb and Korean beef, there’s something for everyone. These recipes are designed to be fast, flavorful, and easy to make, using common ingredients and simple cooking methods. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting bowl of chili or a rich and creamy stew, these recipes will become new favorites.