If you’ve ever made a pot of beef stew and wondered why the meat came out either melt-in-your-mouth tender or frustratingly tough, the secret is in the cut of beef you choose.
After years of cooking family meals, I’ve learned that not every cut works the same way. Some are too lean and dry out quickly, while others become soft and flavorful after a few hours of simmering.
In this post, I’ll share 5 of the best cuts of beef for stew, plus a few cooking tips I’ve used in my own kitchen to make hearty, comforting stews that my grandkids still ask for.
By the end, you’ll know exactly what to pick at the butcher counter for that rich, cozy, stick-to-your-ribs kind of meal.
While you're here, check out my Hungarian Goulash. I can't get enough of this rich and delicious beef stew.
Chuck Roast
This is hands down my go-to choice for beef stew. Chuck roast comes from the shoulder of the cow and has the perfect balance of meat, fat, and connective tissue.
When cooked low and slow for 2–3 hours, the collagen melts down, giving you tender bites and a naturally rich broth.
Tip: Cut chuck into 1 ½-inch cubes for even cooking. If your stew calls for browning the meat first, don’t skip it. The caramelization adds so much flavor.
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Beef Short Ribs
Short ribs aren’t just for braising; they make a deeply flavorful stew. They have plenty of marbling and connective tissue, which break down during cooking to create a silky, hearty sauce.
Tip: Ask your butcher to cut them into smaller pieces so they fit better in your stew pot. I usually cook these for at least 3 hours.
Oxtail
If you want to add richness and body to your stew, oxtail is an old-fashioned cut that brings big results. The bones add gelatin, which gives the broth a slightly thicker, luxurious texture.
Tip: Oxtail needs a long simmer (4–5 hours), so I often make it on a Sunday when I have more time. Serve with mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the broth.
Brisket
Brisket isn’t just for barbecue; it’s fantastic in stew. It has long fibers and a lot of connective tissue, which makes it tough if cooked quickly but melt-in-your-mouth tender when braised.
Tip: Trim excess fat before adding it to your stew. I love using brisket for recipes with red wine or tomato bases because it soaks up those flavors beautifully.
Round (Bottom Round Or Top Round)
The round comes from the rear leg of the cow. It’s leaner than chuck, so you’ll want to cook it carefully to avoid it drying out. I like mixing round with a fattier cut, like chuck, for balance.
Tip: If you’re making a lighter stew (with more vegetables or broth), round works well because it doesn’t add too much fat.
Mix & Match Cuts For Extra Flavor
Sometimes the best stew comes from mixing cuts. I often combine chuck roast with a small portion of oxtail or short ribs. The chuck gives you plenty of tender meat, while the oxtail or ribs enrich the broth.
If you’ve read my post on how to reheat rice so it is not dry, you know I love practical family kitchen tips.
A similar approach works here: mixing and matching gives you flexibility, reduces waste, and creates layers of flavor.
Best Beef Cuts FAQs
Low and slow is the rule! Simmer on the stovetop or in the oven at 325°F for 2–4 hours. You can also use a slow cooker for hands-off cooking.
Sirloin cooks too quickly and can get tough and dry. Save steak cuts for grilling or stir-fries.
YES! Browning adds deep flavor through caramelization. Even if it takes an extra 10 minutes, it’s worth it.
Absolutely. In fact, stew often tastes better the next day once the flavors meld. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
More Cooking Resources
- How To Reheat Rice So It Is Not Dry (4 Ways)
- 6 Different Types Of Salmon (With Pictures)
- How To Store And Freeze Zucchini
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