French Onion Beef Stew

French Onion Beef StewRich, hearty, and deeply comforting—this French Onion Beef Stew combines tender beef,caramelized onions, and a savory broth, slow-simmered to perfection.A cozy recipe from deesviral that’s sure to become a cold-weather favorite anda go-to comfort dish for family dinners. Author: deesviralCuisine: French-Inspired / Comfort FoodCategory: Stew / Main DishSkill Level: IntermediatePrep Time: 20 minutesCook Time: 2 hours 30 minutesTotal Time: 2 hours 50 minutesYield: 6 servings Ingredients2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1 1/2-inch cubes3 tbsp olive oil, divided4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced2 garlic cloves, minced2 tbsp flour6 cups beef broth1 cup dry red wine (optional, enhances flavor)2 tbsp tomato paste2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)2 bay leavesSalt and pepper, to taste1 baguette, sliced and toasted (for serving)1 cup Gruyère or Swiss cheese, shredded (for topping)Gruyère cheese is traditional for French onion flavor, but Swiss or mozzarella can be used for a milder option. InstructionsPat beef cubes dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a Dutch oven and brown beef in batches. Set aside.In the same pot, add remaining 1 tbsp olive oil and onions. Cook on medium-low, stirring occasionally, for 25–30 minutes until deep golden and caramelized. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.Sprinkle flour over onions, stir, and cook 2 minutes to form a roux.Deglaze with red wine (if using), scraping up browned bits. Stir in beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, and bay leaves.Return beef to pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer 2–2 1/2 hours, until beef is fork-tender.Remove thyme and bay leaves. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.Ladle stew into bowls. Top each serving with a toasted baguette slice and a generous sprinkle of Gruyère. Broil briefly until cheese melts and bubbles.Storage & Make-AheadStore leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.Freeze cooled stew (without bread and cheese topping) for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.Toast bread and add cheese topping just before serving for the freshest texture.Why This Recipe WorksCaramelized onions: Add deep, sweet-savory richness that transforms a classic beef stew.Slow simmer: Breaks down beef into tender pieces and develops complex flavors.French onion twist: Topped with toasted bread and cheese, this stew becomes both hearty and indulgent.Make-ahead friendly: Flavors improve the next day, making it great for batch cooking.Expert TipsTake time to caramelize onions slowly for the best depth of flavor.Choose a marbled cut like chuck roast for tender beef after long cooking.For a lighter stew, omit wine and use all beef broth.Broil cheese topping just before serving to get the signature French onion effect.Recipe by deesviral.This French Onion Beef Stew combines the best of two comfort food classics into one rich, flavorful dish.