Go Back
Campfire with Dutch oven cooking over glowing coals at a campsite.

Dutch Oven Beef Stew

Feast Camp
Experience the ultimate camping comfort food with Dutch Oven Beef Stew! This hearty, slow-cooked dish combines tender beef, fresh vegetables, and rich flavors, perfect for outdoor adventures.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Equipment

  • Dutch Oven (5-7 quarts)
  • Heat-Resistant Gloves
  • Tongs
  • Trivet or stand
  • Wooden spoon or ladle
  • Cutting Board
  • Sharp Knife
  • Fire starter or matches
  • Charcoal or hardwood for coals

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2 lbs beef stew meat chuck or brisket, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 4 large potatoes diced
  • 3 large carrots sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
  • 3 celery stalks chopped
  • 1 large onion diced
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup red wine or 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tsp thyme
  • 1 tsp rosemary

Optional Add-Ins

  • Mushrooms parsnips, or smoked paprika for added flavor

Instructions
 

Prep Your Ingredients

  • Trim excess fat from the beef and cut into uniform 1-inch cubes.
  • Wash and chop potatoes, carrots, celery, and onions into bite-sized pieces.

Build Your Campfire

  • Start your fire 30–45 minutes before cooking to create a steady bed of coals.
  • Rake coals into an even layer and prepare a few extra for placing on the Dutch oven lid.

Heat the Dutch Oven

  • Place the Dutch oven on the coals and preheat for 3–5 minutes. Add 2 tbsp olive oil and heat until shimmering.

Sear the Beef

  • Sear the beef in batches to develop a golden crust. Remove and set aside.

Sauté Aromatics

  • Add onions and garlic to the pot, stirring until softened and fragrant. Deglaze with a splash of wine or broth if needed.

Combine Ingredients

  • Return beef to the pot, add vegetables, and pour in broth, wine, or Worcestershire sauce.
  • Season with bay leaves, thyme, and rosemary. Stir well to combine.

Simmer

  • Cover the Dutch oven and let the stew simmer for 2–3 hours. Stir every 30–45 minutes and add fresh coals as needed.

Check for Doneness

  • The stew is ready when the beef is fork-tender and the vegetables are soft but not mushy.

Serve and Enjoy

  • Serve hot with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or rice for a complete meal.