Let’s get real for a sec: keto beef stew. Ever find yourself standing in front of the fridge, craving something cozy, but then it hits you—ugh, carbs. Classic stew is a comfort bomb, sure, but also a potato rocket. Been there, and I got tired of missing out. So, today, I’m laying out my absolute favorite way to make keto beef stew where you’ll never even miss the traditional stuff. Trust me, it’s got those rich, sink-your-spoon-in flavors. Also, if you’re all about hearty meals, you’ll want to peek at this easy-breezy keto beef back ribs recipe—it fits right in with the low-carb feast vibe. 
How To Make Keto Beef Stew
Alright, let’s not get fussy. You don’t need any special chef moves to pull off this keto beef stew. The meat’s the star—don’t skimp on it. I usually grab some chuck roast because it gets super tender and just kinda falls apart. Cube it up, and salt the heck out of it.
Pop those beef cubes in a hot Dutch oven or deep pot. Flip ‘em ‘til they’re brown all around. Leave ‘em alone at first, that’s how you get that flavor party started. When they’re ready, toss in garlic, onions, and a few low-carb veggies. Celery, mushrooms, a bit of carrot for color (relax, it won’t ruin your macros—I promise). Splash in some beef broth, a can of diced tomatoes (yes, tomatoes in stew—fight me), a bay leaf, and whatever dried Italian herbs give you warm fuzzy feelings.
Let it do its thing on low heat for like two hours. Yeah, you gotta wait. But that’s the deal with stew, right? The meat gets all dreamy, and the house smells amazing. Maybe pop over to check out those keto dinner ideas while you wait. Oh, and absolutely taste as you go—my first batch was kinda blah until I tossed in more salt and pepper. It’s a stew, not a science experiment.
“My husband swore he’d never touch keto stew, but now he asks for it every week. Didn’t even realize there were no potatoes!”—Amanda, Michigan
What To Serve With Keto Beef Stew
I always say, stew without a side is like a campfire without marshmallows. Maybe that’s dramatic—but really, you’ll wanna round out your keto beef stew meal. Here’s my go-to list:
- A crisp salad (romaine, arugula, radish—just don’t overthink it)
- Roasted cauliflower or a heap of buttery green beans
- Keto biscuits or toasted low-carb bread (especially if you’re into dunking)
- If you eat dairy, sprinkle a little grated cheese right over the top
Sometimes I serve it with cheesy spaghetti squash casserole from the site. Kids love it. Husband loves it. I basically never get leftovers, which is a bummer and a blessing. 
Thickening Low Carb Stew
This trips people up a lot. Classic stews get their thickness from spuds or flour—but not this keto beef stew. Instead, grab xanthan gum or even chia seeds (sounds weird, but it works). Just a tiny sprinkle goes a loooong way. Stir well and let it simmer uncovered for the last 20ish minutes.
Another trick? Simmer it longer, lid off. Liquid evaporates and you’re left with a super satisfying, thick stew. Oh, and don’t forget mushrooms add body, too.
Best tip? Don’t panic if it seems thin at first. Keto beef stew thickens as it cools, promise.
More Low Carb Keto Beef Recipes
If you’re in this for the long haul (hey, I salute your willpower), you definitely don’t have to settle for bland. I’ve got a whole arsenal of beefy low-carb recipes. For dinner or whenever you want that comfort food feeling. Cheesy spaghetti squash alfredo is one of my repeat dishes, and don’t even get me started on easy keto salmon—it breaks up the beef routine, right? Variety is the spice of not-getting-bored-on-keto, after all.
Pop by the site if you need inspo: everything from casseroles to creative twists on classics. You can browse all kinds of keto soups too, if you want to mix it up but keep it cozy.
Storage
Now, don’t make my rookie mistake—keto beef stew keeps like a champ in the fridge. Toss leftovers into an airtight container (plastic, glass, whatever’s handy) and it’s good for four days easy. Sometimes it’s even better on day two. For longer, just freeze in portions. It reheats perfectly—microwave, stovetop, either works. Kids steal it for school lunches and don’t even realize they’re eating keto. Major win.
Common Questions
Does keto beef stew taste like regular stew?
Honestly? Yes! If you season it right, you won’t miss the potatoes. The beef and veggies still do all the heavy lifting.
Can I use a slow cooker?
Sure can. Do the browning part first for better flavor, then dump it in on low for 7–8 hours.
Is it spicy?
Totally up to you. I use black pepper and maybe a pinch of chili flakes if I’m feeling bold.
How do I make it dairy free?
Easy. Just ditch the cheese on top and double-check your broth is dairy free. Nothing else in the main recipe needs it.
What other veggies can I add?
Try turnips, zucchini, or even a bit of kale. Anything low-carb and sturdy works here.
The Stew That Changed My Dinnertime
Let me say it: keto beef stew is a life saver, especially when you want something hearty but gotta keep the carbs in check. Just ask my family—no leftovers means we have a winner. If you want to explore further or compare styles, check out some other top-notch recipes, like this Amazing Keto Beef Stew – Low Carb Maven, or maybe the Best Keto Beef Stew Recipe, and don’t miss The BEST Keto Beef Stew Recipe – That Low Carb Life. Trust your taste buds, experiment a little, and keep cozy this season. Let me know how yours turns out—or what you served it with!