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Hearty Canned Beef Stew with Dried Vegetables

This hearty beef stew offers comforting warmth and deep flavor in every bite, crafted from shelf-stable pantry items.
By using canned beef and dried vegetables, it’s quick to prepare without sacrificing depth or texture.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 380 kcal

Equipment

  • Medium pot or saucepan with lid
  • Spoon or spatula for stirring
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Optional: Heat-safe bowl for rehydrating vegetables

Ingredients
  

  • 1 can beef chunks in gravy or broth
  • 3/4 cup dried vegetable mix (carrots, potatoes, peas, onions)
  • 3 cups water
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp oil (optional, for added richness)
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (optional, for thickening)

Instructions
 

  • Rehydrate the Vegetables
    In a bowl, combine the dried vegetable mix with 2 cups of warm water. Let them soak for 10 minutes to soften and prepare them for cooking.
  • Heat the Base
    Place the pot over medium heat. Add oil if using for added richness.
    Empty the contents of the canned beef (including liquid) into the pot. Stir in tomato paste, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and smoked paprika.
    Mix well.
    A green spatula stirs a bubbling tomato and spice mixture in a black pan over heat
  • Add Vegetables and Water
    Drain the rehydrated vegetables if necessary.
    Add them to the pot, followed by the remaining 1 cup of water. Stir to combine.
  • Simmer the Stew
    Reduce heat to low. Cover and let the stew simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
    This allows the flavors to meld and the vegetables to fully soften.
    Chunks of beef simmer in a thick, rich stew being stirred with a wooden spoon in a black pot
  • Adjust and Thicken
    Taste the stew and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
    For a thicker consistency, add the cornstarch slurry and simmer uncovered for 2–3 additional minutes.
    A person ladles thick beef stew with pearl onions and carrots from a pot into a white serving bowl
  • Serve and Enjoy
    Ladle into bowls and serve hot. Pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread.
    A bowl of beef stew is served with tender chunks of meat, potatoes, and carrots, garnished with chopped parsley

Video

Notes

Cooking Tips

  • Try other canned meats like roast beef or corned beef for variety.
  • Add a splash of Worcestershire or soy sauce to deepen the flavor.
  • Freeze-dried beef can be used in place of canned; just rehydrate it before adding.
  • Customize dried vegetable mixes with extra potatoes or carrots based on your preference.
Keyword Beef Stew, Canned Meat, Dried Vegetables, Hearty Meals, One Pot Meal