Easy Beef and Green Bean Stew in Tomato Sauce for Cozy Dinners

Sophia

Founder of Vintage cooks

Beef and Green Bean Stew in Tomato Sauce recipe

This post may contain affiliate links learn more.

There’s a comforting charm that comes with simmering a pot of beef and green bean stew in a rich tomato sauce—its aroma fills the kitchen like a warm hug on a chilly evening. I discovered this recipe on one of those evenings when I craved something hearty but didn’t want to spend hours cooking. The tender beef melds perfectly with crisp green beans, all enveloped in a tangy tomato sauce that’s both vibrant and satisfying. What I love most is how this stew feels like a homemade treasure—simple enough for weeknights, yet impressive enough to serve guests. If you’re ready to ditch fast food and indulge in a soulful, flavorful dish, this beef and green bean stew in tomato sauce recipe might just become your new go-to.

Why choose Beef and Green Bean Stew in Tomato Sauce recipe?

Comforting warmth: This stew fills your home with cozy aromas that invite relaxation. Simple to prepare: No complicated steps, perfect for busy weeknights. Balanced flavors: Tender beef and crisp green beans harmonize with tangy tomato sauce. Nutritious and hearty: A wholesome meal that fuels both body and soul. Versatile appeal: Great for family dinners or impressing guests with minimal effort.

Beef and Green Bean Stew Ingredients

For the Stew

Beef chuck, diced – Choose well-marbled cuts for tender, flavorful results in your Beef and Green Bean Stew in Tomato Sauce recipe.
Fresh green beans, trimmed – Adds a satisfying crunch and vibrant color; snap them just before cooking for freshness.
Canned diced tomatoes – Brings tangy depth; opt for quality tomatoes to enrich the sauce naturally.
Onion, chopped – Builds a savory base and sweet undertones when sautéed gently.
Garlic cloves, minced – Infuses aromatic warmth that complements both beef and tomato.
Beef broth – Enhances the stew’s richness; homemade or low-sodium store-bought works great.
Olive oil – For browning beef and sautéing veggies, lending a subtle fruity note.
Tomato paste – Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce perfectly.
Dried herbs (thyme or oregano) – Add these for classic Mediterranean warmth balancing the stew’s acidity.
Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the natural flavors.

For Serving

Fresh parsley, chopped – A fresh, herby finish that brightens the dish just before serving.
Crusty bread or rice – Ideal companions to soak up every spoonful of the luscious tomato sauce.

How to Make Beef and Green Bean Stew

Brown Beef: Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. This Beef and Green Bean Stew in Tomato Sauce recipe begins by browning well-marbled beef chuck pieces for 6–8 minutes until richly caramelized.
Sauté Aromatics: Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for about 3 minutes until onions are translucent and garlic becomes fragrant, stirring to prevent burning.
Incorporate Tomato Paste: Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes until it darkens slightly, enhancing depth, preventing raw flavor, and yielding a richer, more concentrated taste.
Deglaze & Simmer: Pour in beef broth and diced tomatoes, scraping browned bits. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
Add Beans & Herbs: Stir in fresh green beans, dried thyme, salt and pepper. Cover and simmer for 25–30 minutes until beans are bright green and beef is tender.
Finish Sauce: Uncover the pot and simmer for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to reduce excess liquid and yield a luscious, thickened tomato sauce your family will love.
Serve: Ladle stew into bowls, sprinkle chopped parsley on top. Enjoy with crusty bread or rice to soak up every vibrant, tangy drop.

Optional: Add a dollop of crème fraîche for creamy brightness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Beef and Green Bean Stew in Tomato Sauce ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious minutes on busy weeknights. You can dice the beef and chop the onions and herbs up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the refrigerator. Additionally, wash and trim the green beans a day ahead, keeping them wrapped in a damp paper towel to maintain freshness. For the best flavors, consider cooking the stew completely up to 3 days in advance; just refrigerate it in an airtight container. When it’s time to serve, simply reheat the stew on the stovetop until bubbling, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to loosen it up. With these prep tips, you’ll enjoy a hearty meal that tastes freshly made without the stress!

What to Serve with Beef and Green Bean Stew in Tomato Sauce?

Cozy up your dinner table with delightful sides that elevate this hearty stew into a complete warm meal.

Crusty Bread: The perfect accompaniment for soaking up every last drop of the robust tomato sauce—golden, crusty, and oh-so-satisfying.
Fluffy Rice: A simple yet elegant option that absorbs the flavors well, balancing the stew’s tanginess with its soft texture.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Smooth and buttery, these add a comforting richness and create a blissful contrast against the stew’s chunky goodness.
Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Vibrant and caramelized, these add a sweet depth and a delightful crunch, enhancing the overall meal experience.
Mixed Green Salad: Fresh greens with a light vinaigrette can offer a refreshing crispness that cuts through the stew’s richness, cleansing the palate beautifully.
Red Wine: A glass of Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon complements the hearty flavors of the beef and tomato, bringing a touch of sophistication to your table.
Homemade Biscotti: For a sweet finish, pair with a cup of hearty coffee or tea, allowing you to savor every last bit of this warming dinner experience.

Storage Tips for Beef and Green Bean Stew in Tomato Sauce

Fridge: Store your Beef and Green Bean Stew in Tomato Sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to meld even more.

Freezer: Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Leave some space at the top for expansion as liquid freezes.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of beef broth if needed.

Leftovers: This stew makes a wonderful leftover dish, so don’t hesitate to enjoy it again! Reheat within 2 days for the best taste.

Beef and Green Bean Stew Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make the beef and green bean stew your own!

Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for a zesty heat that complements the savory flavors beautifully. A little heat can take your stew to exciting new heights.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute beef with hearty mushrooms or diced eggplant for a rich, plant-based delight that even meat lovers will enjoy. This version allows the tangy sauce to shine just as brightly!
Coconut Cream: Stir in coconut cream towards the end of cooking for a creamy, tropical twist that adds depth and a delightful richness to the dish. The combination of flavors will surprise and delight your palate.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or cilantro instead of dried ones for a fragrant and vibrant lift. The fresh herbs can bring a whole new level of freshness to the stew.
Root Veggies: Incorporate diced carrots or potatoes for extra heartiness and a touch of natural sweetness. These additions can enhance texture and flavor, creating a more robust stew.
Balsamic Reduction: Drizzle a bit of balsamic vinegar or a reduction over your finished dish to add a tangy sweetness that beautifully underscores the savory elements. It’s a simple yet elegant enhancement.
Wine-Infused: Splash in red wine after browning the beef to deglaze the pot and add layers of complexity to the sauce. Allow it to simmer for a rich, bold taste that makes the stew even more impressive.
Cheesy Topping: Serve with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or crumbled feta on top for a savory finish that complements the dish’s flavors perfectly. It’s a delicious way to elevate every bite!

Expert Tips for Beef and Green Bean Stew

Choose the right beef: Use well-marbled beef chuck for tenderness and rich flavor in your Beef and Green Bean Stew in Tomato Sauce recipe.
Freshness matters: Snap green beans just before cooking to keep their vibrant color and satisfying crunch.
Brown meat thoroughly: Don’t rush browning—develop a deep caramelized crust to boost the stew’s savory depth.
Control tomato paste cooking: Sauté tomato paste until it darkens slightly to avoid raw taste and enrich the sauce naturally.
Simmer low and slow: Keep heat low during the simmer to tenderize beef without toughening the green beans.
Adjust seasoning last: Taste near the end and season with salt and pepper carefully; tomato can concentrate and alter flavors as it reduces.

Beef and Green Bean Stew in Tomato Sauce Recipe FAQs

What type of beef is best for this Beef and Green Bean Stew in Tomato Sauce recipe?
I recommend using well-marbled beef chuck because its fat content melts during cooking, keeping the meat tender and juicy. Avoid lean cuts—they can become tough in the slow simmer.

How fresh should the green beans be, and can I use frozen ones?
Fresh green beans are ideal—they should snap cleanly without any dark spots to ensure that satisfying crunch. Frozen green beans can work in a pinch but add them later in the cooking to avoid over-softening.

How long can I store leftover stew in the fridge?
Store your stew in an airtight container and enjoy within 3 to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen after a day, so leftovers taste even better. Always reheat thoroughly before serving.

Can I freeze this stew, and what’s the best way to do it?
Absolutely! To freeze, cool the stew completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Leave about an inch of headspace for expansion. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and gently reheat on the stove, adding a little beef broth if the sauce feels too thick.

Why does my stew sometimes turn out watery, and how can I fix it?
Watery stew usually means the sauce didn’t reduce enough. To fix this, uncover the pot during the last 10 minutes of cooking and simmer gently, stirring occasionally. This reduces excess liquid, thickening and concentrating your flavorful tomato sauce perfectly.

Is this stew suitable for people with common allergies or pets?
This recipe is free of common allergens like nuts and dairy (unless you add crème fraîche as a topping). However, it is not suitable for pets because the ingredients like onion and garlic can be harmful to dogs and cats. Always keep human stew safely away from pets.