Name: Leftover Roast Beef Stew
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: 4 potatoes, peeled and chopped; 2 carrots, peeled and chopped; 2 celery sticks, chopped; 1 large onion, peeled and chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups leftover roast beef, cubed; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper; 2 cups beef broth or stock; 1/2 cup leftover gravy (optional); 1 tablespoon tomato puree; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley and dill

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Leftover Roast Beef Stew is a hearty, wholesome meal that turns yesterday’s roast into today’s cozy comfort food. Packed with tender beef, flavorful broth, and chunky vegetables, this quick stovetop stew is the perfect way to warm up on a chilly evening. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s proof that leftovers can be just as exciting as the original dish.

Leftover Roast Beef Stew

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy—ready in just 30 minutes
Budget-friendly—uses leftovers and pantry staples
Great way to reduce food waste
Rich, comforting flavor from broth, herbs, and optional gravy
One-pot meal with easy cleanup
Perfect for cold weather
Family-friendly and filling
Easily customizable with other vegetables
Freezer-friendly for future meals
Delicious next-day leftovers

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 potatoes, peeled and chopped
2 carrots, peeled and chopped
2 celery sticks, chopped
1 large onion, peeled and chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups leftover roast beef, cubed
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
2 cups beef broth or stock
½ cup leftover gravy (optional, for richer flavor)
1 tablespoon tomato puree
1 tablespoon fresh parsley and dill, chopped

Directions

Prep the vegetables:
Peel and chop the onion, garlic, potatoes, and carrots. Chop the celery as well.
Sauté the aromatics:
Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion with a pinch of salt and sauté until golden, about 5 minutes.
Add vegetables and beef:
Stir in the potatoes, carrots, garlic, and celery. Mix well. Add the cubed leftover roast beef and stir to combine.
Simmer the stew:
Pour in the beef broth and leftover gravy (if using). Cover with a lid and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the vegetables are fork-tender.
Finish and season:
Stir in the tomato puree and chopped parsley and dill. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve hot:
Ladle into bowls and enjoy with crusty bread or on its own.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 people
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add peas or green beans during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Swap herbs: Use thyme, rosemary, or bay leaf for a different flavor profile.
Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a sweeter, earthy taste.
Add barley or lentils for added fiber and heartiness.
Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream before serving.
Turn it into a pie filling: Use the stew inside a puff pastry or biscuit-topped pot pie.
Spice it up: Add a dash of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze cooled stew in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen.

FAQs

Can I make this stew with other leftover meats?

Yes! It works great with leftover lamb, or chicken. Just adjust the broth flavor accordingly.

Do I have to use gravy?

No, it’s optional. It adds richness, but the stew is still delicious with just broth and tomato puree.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, but since the meat is already cooked, reduce the cooking time to avoid overcooking. Heat on low for 2–3 hours or until veggies are tender.

How do I thicken the stew?

Mash a few potatoes into the broth or stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, add them during the last 10 minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking.

Can I use canned potatoes or carrots?

Yes, but add them near the end since they’re already cooked.

What if my leftover beef is tough?

Simmer the stew longer or cut the beef into smaller pieces to help it become more tender.

What bread pairs well with this stew?

Crusty baguette, sourdough, or dinner rolls are great choices.

Is this stew gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the broth and gravy (if used) are gluten-free. Always check labels to be sure.

Conclusion

Leftover Roast Beef Stew is the ultimate way to stretch your roast into another delicious, comforting meal. With a handful of vegetables, simple seasonings, and a rich broth, it’s a fast and fuss-free dinner that delivers big flavor and warmth. Whether you’re cooking on a weeknight or making the most of holiday leftovers, this stew is a cozy classic you’ll turn to again and again.