Warm, Hearty, and Comforting: Stew Recipes for Any Occasion

Stews are a warm and comforting meal that can be made with a variety of ingredients, from tender meats to fresh vegetables. Slow-cooked to bring out deep flavors, they are perfect for any season but especially great on chilly days. With rich broths and hearty textures, they make a filling and flavorful dish.

From classic beef stew to chicken, seafood, and vegetable-based options, there are endless ways to prepare them. Whether using a slow cooker, stovetop, or pressure cooker, the process allows flavors to blend beautifully over time. Different herbs, spices, and ingredients can make each recipe unique.

These stew recipes offer a mix of traditional and creative options to suit different tastes. Whether you prefer something rich and meaty or light and vegetable-packed, there’s something for everyone. Try these simple and flavorful ideas to enjoy a warm, homemade meal.

Cowboy Stew

This hearty, no-fuss stew is packed with ground beef, sausage, beans, and potatoes for a meal that sticks with you. The flavors meld together beautifully, creating a rich, smoky broth with just the right kick. It’s easy to make in one pot and great for feeding a crowd. Perfect for cool evenings or when you need something comforting and filling.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Stew

Instant Pot Chicken Stew

A quick and easy way to get a rich, flavorful chicken stew without spending hours in the kitchen. Tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a well-seasoned broth come together in a fraction of the time. The Instant Pot does all the work, leaving you with a warm, satisfying meal. Great for busy nights when you need something homemade but fuss-free.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Stew

Vegan Mushroom Lentil Stew

This plant-based stew is packed with protein-rich lentils and earthy mushrooms, creating a thick, flavorful dish. The lentils cook down into a hearty base, while the mushrooms add a meaty texture without any actual meat. A mix of herbs and spices gives it depth, making each spoonful comforting. Perfect for a nutritious, one-pot meal.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Mushroom Lentil Stew

Italian Mushroom Stew

Full of rich tomato flavor, tender mushrooms, and fragrant herbs, this stew is a warm and satisfying dish. It pairs well with crusty bread or polenta to soak up the savory broth. A sprinkle of parmesan on top adds the perfect finishing touch. Great for a meatless meal that doesn’t lack depth.
Get the Recipe: Italian Mushroom Stew

Chicken Potato Stew

Tender chicken and soft, flavorful potatoes simmer together in a thick, comforting broth. Simple ingredients come together to make a meal that’s both hearty and wholesome. A few herbs and a splash of cream can take it to the next level. Serve it with warm bread for a complete, delicious dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Potato Stew

Vegan Chickpea and Sweet Potato Stew

Chickpeas and sweet potatoes create a naturally creamy, protein-packed base for this plant-based stew. A mix of warming spices and coconut milk adds a touch of sweetness and depth. It’s easy to make and perfect for meal prep, as the flavors only get better with time. A delicious way to keep things both nutritious and comforting.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Chickpea and Sweet Potato Stew

Venison Stew

This rich, slow-simmered stew highlights the deep, gamey flavor of venison with tender vegetables and a bold broth. A splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar helps enhance the natural richness of the meat. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors meld together. A great way to make the most of wild game.
Get the Recipe: Venison Stew

Instant Pot Beef Stew

Classic beef stew comes together in record time thanks to the Instant Pot. The pressure cooking locks in flavor, making the beef fork-tender and the broth incredibly rich. Carrots, potatoes, and onions round out the dish for a one-pot meal. Perfect for when you need something hearty without waiting all day.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Beef Stew

Grandma’s Hearty Offal Stew

This old-fashioned stew makes the most of liver, heart, and other nutrient-rich cuts, slow-cooked to perfection. The deep, rich broth brings out the best in every ingredient, creating layers of flavor. Served with crusty bread or rice, it’s a true comfort meal. A dish that pays tribute to generations of resourceful cooking.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Hearty Offal Stew

Apple Cider Instant Pot Beef Stew

The natural sweetness of apple cider balances the savory richness of beef, creating a stew that’s both comforting and flavorful. The Instant Pot makes quick work of tenderizing the meat while letting all the flavors develop beautifully. A touch of thyme or rosemary ties everything together. A perfect dish for fall or when you want something a little different.
Get the Recipe: Apple Cider Instant Pot Beef Stew

Nigerian Fish Stew

This bold, flavorful stew features fresh fish simmered in a spiced tomato-based sauce. The blend of peppers, onions, and seasonings creates a rich, aromatic broth that pairs beautifully with rice or plantains. Whether using whole fish or fillets, the result is always deeply satisfying. A staple in Nigerian cuisine that’s full of warmth and depth.
Get the Recipe: Nigerian Fish Stew

Easy Vegetable Stew

Packed with colorful vegetables, this stew is a simple way to enjoy a comforting meal without any meat. The broth is rich and flavorful, thanks to a mix of herbs, tomatoes, and slow-simmered vegetables. It’s versatile—serve it on its own, over rice, or with a slice of warm bread. A great way to use up whatever veggies you have on hand.
Get the Recipe: Easy Vegetable Stew

Nigerian Chicken Stew

This spiced tomato stew features tender chicken simmered in a rich, peppery sauce. The deep, complex flavors come from slow-cooking a blend of tomatoes, onions, and bold spices. It pairs perfectly with rice, yams, or plantains for a complete meal. A comforting and flavorful dish that’s a staple in many Nigerian homes.
Get the Recipe: Nigerian Chicken Stew

Farm to Table Thick Beef Stew Recipe

A robust, slow-cooked beef stew loaded with farm-fresh vegetables and rich broth. The beef turns melt-in-your-mouth tender while the root vegetables soak up all the flavors. It’s thick, hearty, and perfect for a cozy dinner. Best enjoyed with a side of warm, crusty bread.
Get the Recipe: Farm to Table Thick Beef Stew Recipe

Mulligan Stew

A classic, everything-goes-in-the-pot stew that’s all about resourcefulness and big flavors. Often made with beef, potatoes, carrots, and whatever else is on hand, it’s a great way to create something satisfying from simple ingredients. The broth gets richer the longer it simmers. A hearty meal that has stood the test of time.
Get the Recipe: Mulligan Stew

Easy Beef Stew

This no-fuss beef stew delivers deep, comforting flavors with minimal effort. Tender chunks of beef, potatoes, and carrots simmer in a thick, rich broth. The longer it cooks, the more flavorful it gets, making it perfect for leftovers. Serve it up with a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Easy Beef Stew

Beef Stew Goulash Instant Pot

This Instant Pot version of goulash-style beef stew is packed with paprika, garlic, and slow-cooked beef. The bold, smoky flavors develop beautifully under pressure, cutting down cooking time without sacrificing taste. Serve it over noodles or dumplings for a hearty meal. A great way to enjoy a classic dish in a fraction of the time.
Get the Recipe: Beef Stew Goulash Instant Pot

Guinness Beef Stew

This rich, slow-simmered stew gets its deep flavor from a generous pour of Guinness. The stout enhances the beef’s natural richness while adding a slightly malty depth to the broth. With tender chunks of meat, potatoes, and carrots, it’s as comforting as it gets. Perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend meal.
Get the Recipe: Guinness Beef Stew

Instant Pot Chicken Stew with Squash

Tender chicken and sweet, hearty squash come together in a rich, warming broth. The Instant Pot cuts down on cook time while keeping all the flavors intact. A mix of herbs and a splash of coconut milk or cream gives it an extra layer of richness. A great dish for fall or when you need something soothing.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Stew with Squash

Slow Cooker Beef Stew

This classic beef stew cooks low and slow, letting the flavors deepen over hours. The beef turns incredibly tender while the vegetables soak up the rich, savory broth. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it meal that makes dinnertime easy. Serve with mashed potatoes or crusty bread for the ultimate comfort dish.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Beef Stew