20 Stews That Bring Big Comfort

Stew is all about comfort, and this lineup brings together a wide mix of flavors and ingredients to suit whatever you’re craving. There are slow-cooked classics, rich beef and mushroom combinations, meatball spins, and even a few meatless options that are just as filling. Some are made in one pot, others in the Instant Pot or slow cooker, but all of them come out warm, hearty, and ready for a spoon.

Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew

Ground beef, potatoes, and carrots slow cook in a simple tomato broth for a no-frills, cozy meal. It’s budget-friendly and easy to make with pantry ingredients. Let it simmer all day and come home to dinner. Great with a piece of crusty bread.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew

Instant Pot Mexican Beef Stew

This version adds bold spices, tomatoes, and sometimes beans for a stew that packs a little heat. The beef turns tender in the Instant Pot while the flavors deepen fast. Serve with rice, tortillas, or just on its own. A tasty twist on tradition.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Mexican Beef Stew

Instant Pot Tuscan Beef Stew

Beef simmers with white beans, herbs, and greens in a tomato broth that’s rich and layered. The pressure cooker speeds things up without losing flavor. It’s hearty but not heavy. Top with Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Tuscan Beef Stew

The Ultimate Vegetarian Stew

Packed with root vegetables, beans, and herbs, this meatless stew still feels full and satisfying. It cooks down into a thick, cozy bowl with lots of texture. Great for batch cooking. Serve with bread or over grains.
Get the Recipe: The Ultimate Vegetarian Stew

Turkey Stew

Chunks of turkey cook with potatoes, carrots, and peas in a light, creamy broth. It’s a great way to use up leftovers or stretch a small roast. Serve hot and add fresh herbs for brightness. Simple, homey, and filling.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Stew

Instant Pot Beef Stew

A fast version of the classic, this stew uses the Instant Pot to tenderize beef quickly in a thick, savory sauce. Potatoes and carrots round it out. A go-to recipe when you want comfort fast. Good for leftovers too.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Beef Stew

Cajun Meatball Stew

Spicy meatballs simmer in a dark, flavorful roux-based sauce with Southern seasoning. It’s bold and rich with just the right amount of kick. Serve over rice. A fun change from standard stew.
Get the Recipe: Cajun Meatball Stew

Creamy Meatball Stew

This version uses meatballs in a creamy, lightly seasoned broth with potatoes and peas. It’s kid-friendly and easy to make in one pot. Serve with biscuits or rolls. Comforting and cozy.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Meatball Stew

Curry Coconut Chickpea Stew

Chickpeas simmer with coconut milk, curry spices, and sometimes spinach or sweet potatoes for a rich, vegan-friendly stew. It’s creamy with a little warmth. Serve over rice or with flatbread. Great for meatless nights.
Get the Recipe: Curry Coconut Chickpea Stew

Easy Beef Stew

This straightforward recipe sticks to the basics—beef, potatoes, carrots, and a thick, savory gravy. It’s familiar, hearty, and easy to build on. Let it simmer until everything is fork-tender. A classic for good reason.
Get the Recipe: Easy Beef Stew

Easy One-Pot Lentil Stew

Lentils cook with tomatoes, carrots, and seasonings in one pot for a stew that’s hearty without being heavy. It comes together quickly and gets better as it sits. Serve with greens or crusty bread. A great weeknight meal.
Get the Recipe: Easy One-Pot Lentil Stew

Easy Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work. The beef turns soft, the broth thickens, and the vegetables soak up all the flavor. A great option for busy days. Serve with mashed potatoes or on its own.
Get the Recipe: Easy Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Easy Vegetable Stew

This simple stew is full of chopped vegetables in a tomato or broth base. It’s light but satisfying. Use whatever’s in season. Add beans, lentils, or pasta to bulk it up.
Get the Recipe: Easy Vegetable Stew

Grandma’s Hearty Offal Stew

Organ meats like liver and kidney cook slowly in a rich broth with onions and herbs. The result is deeply flavorful and traditional. Serve with mashed potatoes or polenta. A dish with old-school charm.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Hearty Offal Stew

Guinness Beef Stew

Beef simmers in a dark, malty broth made with Guinness and beef stock. The beer adds depth without bitterness. Add carrots, potatoes, and herbs for balance. Serve with crusty bread or mashed potatoes.
Get the Recipe: Guinness Beef Stew

Instant Pot Beef and Mushroom Stew

Chunks of beef and mushrooms cook together in a savory sauce that’s earthy and rich. The Instant Pot makes the meat tender in less time. A great choice when you want big flavor fast. Serve with noodles or bread.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Beef and Mushroom Stew

Apple Cider Instant Pot Beef Stew

Apple cider brings a hint of sweetness to this beef stew, balanced by herbs and tender vegetables. It’s cozy and a little unexpected. The flavors blend well after pressure cooking. A good fall or winter dish.
Get the Recipe: Apple Cider Instant Pot Beef Stew

Beef and Sweet Potato Stew

Sweet potatoes add a slight sweetness and a creamy texture to this stew. The beef cooks until tender in a seasoned broth. Serve warm with herbs on top. It’s a comforting mix of sweet and savory.
Get the Recipe: Beef and Sweet Potato Stew

Beef Stew Goulash Instant Pot

This Hungarian-style stew features paprika, beef, and vegetables in a tomato-rich sauce. The Instant Pot helps intensify the flavors quickly. Serve with egg noodles or dumplings. A bold option with depth.
Get the Recipe: Beef Stew Goulash Instant Pot

Boeuf Bourguignon – Beef Stewed with Mushrooms, Red Wine and Bacon

This French classic slow cooks beef in red wine with mushrooms, onions, and bits of bacon. The result is deep, rich, and full of flavor. Serve with potatoes or bread. It’s a great choice for a slow weekend meal.
Get the Recipe: Boeuf Bourguignon – Beef Stewed with Mushrooms, Red Wine and Bacon