Cracker Barrel Beef Stew is a hearty, comforting dish made with beef, vegetables, and a savory broth, similar to the classic stew served at Cracker Barrel restaurants.

If you were addicted to Beef Stew from Cracker Barrel like me, I’m sure you were frustrated when you heard that Cracker Barrel removed the Beef Stew dish from their menu. Because of that, I started making this Cracker Barrel beef stew recipe at home. For my first time, it was easy because I usually make Ninja Foodi Beef Stew, which is also one of my favorite beef stews.

This Cracker Barrel beef stew copycat recipe is easy to make. For me, I use ingredients like beef stew meat, potatoes, carrots, celery, turnips, and beef broth, but you can add some peas or mushrooms if you like. Enjoy it with crusty French bread and some mashed potatoes. The hearty combination of tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and a rich, savory broth makes it a satisfying meal for any occasion.

How to make Cracker Barrel Beef Stew

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 2 turnips, peeled and cubed
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1:

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.

Step 2:

Remove the beef from the pot and set aside. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook until softened, about 3 minutes.

Step 3:

Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste.

Step 4:

Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.

Step 5:

Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the sliced carrots, cubed potatoes, sliced celery, cubed turnips, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6:

Cover the pot and simmer the stew over low heat for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.

Step 7:

Once the stew is cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Tips for making perfect Beef Stew

• Opt for a tender cut of beef suitable for stewing, such as chuck or round. These cuts become tender and flavorful when cooked slowly.
• Before adding it to the stew, brown the beef cubes in a hot pan. This step enhances the flavor by caramelizing the meat and adds depth to the dish.
• While dried herbs work well, using fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary can elevate the flavor of the stew even further. Add them towards the end of cooking for the best taste.
• Taste the stew towards the end of cooking and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs to achieve the desired flavor profile.
• To ensure the vegetables remain tender but not mushy, add them to the stew towards the end of the cooking time. This prevents them from becoming overly soft.

What to pair Cracker Barrel Beef Stew

My favorite way to enjoy Cracker Barrel Beef Stew is with a side of crusty French bread or homemade dinner rolls, perfect for soaking up the delicious broth. But if you’re looking for a lighter option, pairing the stew with a simple side salad dressed with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast, or you can try it with this Nish Nosh Salad

You can also spoon the tender beef and vegetables over Texas Roadhouse Mashed Potatoes or fluffy rice to absorb the rich sauce. And for a Southern-inspired twist, warm cornbread or corn muffins make a delightful accompaniment. If you like a bit of crunch, add some herb-roasted potatoes on the side for a hearty and flavorful meal.

Optional Ingredients for Cracker Barrel Stew

Peas: Add a cup of frozen or fresh peas for a pop of color and sweetness.

Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms add an earthy flavor and extra texture to the stew.

Parsnips: Similar to carrots but slightly sweeter, parsnips add a unique flavor.

Bell Peppers: Chopped bell peppers can add a subtle sweetness and vibrant color.

Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes or a spoonful of tomato paste can add richness and depth to the broth.

How to store

To store Cracker Barrel Beef Stew, let it cool to room temperature after cooking. Once cooled, transfer the stew to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to eat it, reheat the stew on the stove over medium heat until warmed through.

FAQ

Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this stew in a slow cooker. Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

How can I thicken my Cracker Barrel Beef Stew?

To thicken the stew, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the stew. Let it simmer until it thickens.

Can I use other vegetables in this stew?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like peas, green beans, or parsnips to the stew according to your preference.

Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Yes, beef stew often tastes even better the next day. You can make it a day ahead, store it in the refrigerator, and reheat it before serving.

Conclusions

If you like hearty and comforting meals, Cracker Barrel Beef Stew is the perfect dish for you. With tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and a rich, savory broth, it’s a satisfying option for any occasion. Easy to make and versatile with various pairing options, this stew is sure to become a favorite in your household.