Name: Irish Stew With Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Irish
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 pounds beef stew meat (or lamb); 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 4 cups beef broth; 5 carrots (peeled and cut into chunks); 1 cup frozen peas; 2 bay leaves

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If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, this Irish Stew with Mashed Potatoes is just the ticket. It’s the kind of recipe that brings people together, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering. The rich flavors and hearty ingredients make it a go-to comfort food that everyone will love.

I can’t tell you how many times this stew has been the star of our dinner table. There’s something magical about watching it simmer away, filling the kitchen with delicious aromas. And the best part? It’s simple to make! Grab your favorite pot and let’s dive into this delightful recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Comforting and Filling: This stew is packed with tender meat and veggies, making every bite satisfying.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, anyone can whip up this dish without fuss.
Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike enjoy the rich flavors, ensuring no one leaves the table hungry!
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time; it tastes even better the next day!
Versatile Ingredients: Use what you have on hand—this stew easily adapts to your pantry staples.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather what we need to create this delicious Irish stew!

For the Stew

2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
3 Pounds Beef Stew Meat (or Lamb)
1/4 Cup All Purpose Flour
2 teaspoons Salt
1 teaspoon Black Pepper
1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
1 teaspoon Onion Powder
2 teaspoons Fresh Rosemary
1 teaspoon Dried Thyme
4 Cups Beef Broth
5 Each Carrots (peeled and cut into chunks)
1 Cup Frozen Peas
2 Each Bay Leaves

For Serving

Mashed Potatoes

Variations

One of the best things about this Irish Stew with Mashed Potatoes is its flexibility! You can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Swap the protein: If beef isn’t your thing, try using lamb or even chicken for a different flavor profile.
Add more veggies: Feel free to toss in some potatoes or parsnips for an extra veggie boost.
Make it spicy: For those who like a kick, add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
Go vegetarian: Substitute beef broth with vegetable broth and use mushrooms instead of meat for a tasty plant-based option.

How to Make Irish Stew With Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Sear the Meat

Begin by adding olive oil to a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, add your beef stew meat that has been coated with flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, rosemary, and thyme. Searing the meat until it’s browned on all sides locks in those flavorful juices and gives your stew depth.

Step 2: Add Broth

Once your meat is nicely browned, slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring constantly. This helps deglaze the pan and incorporates all those delicious bits stuck to the bottom. Bring everything to a boil; this is where magic starts to happen!

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Now it’s time to add in those lovely carrots and bay leaves. They will add sweetness and aroma as they cook down. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover with a lid, and let it simmer gently for about 45 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking; you want everything cooking evenly.

Step 4: Finish Up

With just five minutes left in cooking time, stir in the frozen peas for a pop of color and sweetness. Remember to fish out those bay leaves before serving—their job is done!

Serve this hearty Irish stew over creamy mashed potatoes for an unforgettable meal that warms your heart as much as it fills your belly. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Pro Tips for Making Irish Stew With Mashed Potatoes

Cooking is all about making it your own, and these tips will help you achieve the perfect Irish stew that warms your heart and home.

Choose quality meat: Using high-quality beef or lamb not only enhances the flavor but also ensures tenderness in your stew. Look for well-marbled cuts for the best results.
Don’t skip the searing: Searing the meat before adding the broth locks in flavors and adds depth to your stew. This step creates a delicious crust on the meat that makes every bite more satisfying.
Use fresh herbs when possible: Fresh rosemary and thyme can elevate your dish with vibrant flavors. If you have them on hand, they can make a noticeable difference compared to dried herbs.
Let it simmer: Allowing the stew to cook slowly helps meld all the flavors together. The longer it simmers (up to 1.5 hours if you have time), the richer and more complex the taste will be.
Taste and adjust: Don’t forget to taste your stew before serving! A little extra salt or seasoning can truly enhance the final dish, ensuring it’s just right for your palate.

How to Serve Irish Stew With Mashed Potatoes

Serving this hearty Irish stew is as much about presentation as it is about flavor. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more inviting!

Garnishes

Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor that complements the rich stew beautifully.
Chopped chives: These provide a mild onion flavor that works wonderfully with both the stew and mashed potatoes, giving an elegant touch.

Side Dishes

Crusty bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the rich gravy of your stew. It’s an essential comfort food pairing!
Steamed green beans: Lightly steamed green beans add a crunchy texture and vibrant color to your plate, balancing out the heartiness of the stew.
Simple garden salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the stew.
Roasted root vegetables: Roasting carrots, parsnips, and potatoes brings out their natural sweetness, creating a delightful side that echoes flavors from your main dish.

Now you’re ready to serve up this cozy bowl of Irish Stew with Mashed Potatoes! Enjoy every comforting bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Irish Stew with Mashed Potatoes is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, hearty meals throughout the week. Here’s how to store and manage leftovers effectively:

Storing Leftovers

Allow the stew to cool completely before storing.
Transfer it to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

Let the stew cool entirely before freezing.
Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
You can also use a microwave; heat in short intervals, stirring between each.

FAQs

Have questions about making this comforting dish? Here are some answers!

Can I use lamb instead of beef in the Irish Stew with Mashed Potatoes?

Absolutely! Lamb is a traditional choice for Irish stew and will add a lovely flavor. Just follow the same steps in the recipe.

How long does Irish Stew with Mashed Potatoes last in the fridge?

When stored properly, this dish can last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Be sure to keep it in an airtight container!

Can I add other vegetables to my Irish Stew?

Yes! Feel free to include your favorite vegetables like parsnips or turnips. Just adjust cooking times as needed based on their texture.

What can I serve with Irish Stew?

While mashed potatoes are classic, you can also serve it with crusty bread or a fresh salad on the side for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

This Irish Stew with Mashed Potatoes is more than just food; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings comfort and joy to any table. I hope you find joy in making this dish and share it with loved ones. It truly encapsulates the essence of home-cooked goodness, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy every hearty bite!

Irish Stew With Mashed Potatoes

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Author: Autumn
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: Serves approximately 6
Category: Main
Method: Simmering
Cuisine: Irish

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Description

Indulge in a bowl of warmth with this comforting Irish Stew With Mashed Potatoes. Perfect for chilly evenings, this hearty dish combines tender beef stew meat, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs simmered to perfection. Served over creamy mashed potatoes, it’s an inviting meal that brings family and friends together. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week ahead, this easy-to-follow recipe delivers rich flavors and satisfying comfort. Experience the magic of homemade cooking and let every bite warm your heart and soul.

Ingredients

Scale

2 tablespoons olive oil
3 pounds beef stew meat (or lamb)
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
2 teaspoons fresh rosemary
1 teaspoon dried thyme
4 cups beef broth
5 carrots (peeled and cut into chunks)
1 cup frozen peas
2 bay leaves

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Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the beef stew meat coated in flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, rosemary, and thyme until browned on all sides.
Slowly add the beef broth while stirring to deglaze the pan. Bring to a boil.
Add carrots and bay leaves; reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
In the last five minutes of cooking, stir in frozen peas. Remove bay leaves before serving.