Beef stew is a rich, hearty dinner dish. And if you’re looking for what to serve with beef stew to complete the meal, we’ve got lots of delicious recipes for you!

bowl of beef bourguignon with pasta

When the temperatures drop and there’s a chill in the air, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of soup. And one of my favorites to make every soup season is beef stew.

We love to make the classic French Beef Bourguignon. And when we’re short on time, we love making this Instant Pot Beef Stew.

Beef stew is a rich and hearty dish that can stand as a meal on its own, but pairing it with the right side dishes can elevate the experience.

So we’ve got 25+ recipes for what to serve with beef stew, to create a complete, balanced, delicious meal!

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🌟 Choosing a side dish for beef stew

instant pot beef stew

When thinking about what to serve with beef stew, it’s essential to complement the warm, savory flavors of the stew without overwhelming them.

Side dishes that provide contrast, like fresh, crunchy vegetables or buttery, starchy sides, can create a well-rounded meal. Whether you’re looking for something light and refreshing or warm and comforting, there are plenty of options to enhance your beef stew dinner.

Also, consider the flavors of your particular stew recipe. If it’s a traditional beef stew with root vegetables and herbs, you’ll want sides that balance out the richness. Crisp salads or roasted vegetables offer a refreshing contrast, while breads like garlic toast or soft dinner rolls soak up all the delicious broth.

🍽 Beef stew serving FAQs

beef bourguignon with pasta peeking out of bottom
Can I prepare beef stew ahead of time before a party?

Yes! Beef stew actually improves in flavor when made a day or two in advance, as the ingredients have more time to meld together. You can reheat it slowly on the stove or in a slow cooker before serving.

How do I keep beef stew warm during a party?

A slow cooker is an excellent tool for keeping beef stew warm without overcooking it. You can also serve it in a Dutch oven with a lid and keep it on low heat.

What’s the best way to serve beef stew at a dinner party?

You can serve beef stew in bowls with a side of crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or over rice. For a more casual setup, you can create a self-serve buffet where guests can ladle the stew into bowls and choose from a variety of side dishes.

Can I freeze beef stew?

Yes, beef stew freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then store it in airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months and reheated for an easy meal later.

🚫 Dishes to avoid serving with beef stew

While many sides complement beef stew, there are a few types of dishes that may not work well.

  • Avoid serving overly creamy sides, as they can make the meal too rich.
  • Sweet side dishes, such as sweet potato casseroles, may clash with the savory and umami flavors of the stew.
  • Acidic or highly spiced sides can overwhelm the flavors of the beef stew.

🍷 🥂 Wine pairings

dutch oven with beef bourguignon, glass of red wine, and side of pasta.

There are two main wines I always recommend pairing with classic beef stew recipes: Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah (also known as Shiraz).

  • Cabernet Sauvignon – With its bold tannins and dark fruit flavors, Cabernet Sauvignon is a classic pairing for beef stew. The wine’s structure complements the stew’s richness, while its acidity cuts through the hearty meat and vegetables.
  • Syrah/Shiraz – Syrah or Shiraz offers deep, peppery flavors with hints of dark berries and smoke, making it an excellent match for the robust flavors of a well-seasoned beef stew.

Best dishes to serve with beef stew

Here are 25+ recipes that would be delicious to serve with beef stew. Let us know in the comments which ones you’ve made and how they went with the meal!

Beef Stew Side Dishes

🥔 Potatoes

Potatoes are the ultimate classic side dish to serve with beef stew and Beef Bourguignon.

🍞 Bread

A crusty loaf of bread, rolls, or rustic loaves are perfect for beef stew. Choose bread that can hold up to the stew's hearty broth without becoming too soggy.

🥦 Vegetables 🌽

Roasted vegetables like carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts offer a wonderful contrast to the soft, tender textures of the stew while providing a burst of freshness.

🥗 Salads

A fresh salad with crisp greens and a tangy dressing is a great way to add freshness and balance to any meal with beef stew.

More comfort food recipes

Did you make any of these recipes? Don’t forget to leave a 5-Star 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 rating and comment below letting us know which one you made and how it turned out. Thank you!

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About Marlynn

I'm a cookbook author, recipe developer, photographer, WSET 2 Certified wine pro, mom of two, and dog lover. I'm here to help you with fast, easy, and delicious recipes, food & wine pairings, cooking & baking tips, plus food and wine travel guides.

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