Fall Apple Cider Stew Mash – Cozy Autumn Beef Stew with Mashed Potatoes
Cozy up with this fall apple cider beef stew served over creamy cheddar mashed potatoes. A sweet-savory autumn dinner perfect for chilly nights.
Ingredients
For the Stew
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 340 g (¾ lb) top sirloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 cups apple cider (fresh pressed preferred)
- ½ cup low-sodium beef broth
- 1-2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for thickening)
For the Mashed Potatoes
- 6 large Yukon Gold or russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- ¼ cup whole milk
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
- 3 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Sear the BeefPreheat your oven to 375 °F (190 °C). Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the butter foams. Season the beef generously with salt and pepper, then add to the pan in a single layer. Sear without moving it for 2–3 minutes to get a deep crust, then turn and brown all sides (about 6–8 minutes total).
- Build the AromaticsAdd chopped onions and carrots to the skillet. Sauté for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are translucent and the carrots start to soften. Sprinkle the flour over everything and stir to coat. Let it cook for a minute to remove the raw taste.
- Deglaze and BraisePour in the apple cider and beef broth, scraping up all the browned bits (that’s pure flavor). Bring to a gentle boil, then transfer everything to a Dutch oven or oven-safe casserole dish. Cover tightly and bake for 60–90 minutes, or until the beef is tender and the sauce is thickened.
- Make the Mashed PotatoesAbout 30 minutes before the stew finishes, boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, 20–25 minutes. Drain, then return to the warm pot. Add milk, sour cream, shredded cheddar, and half the chives. Mash until smooth and fluffy. Adjust salt to taste.
- Serve and EnjoySpoon a generous portion of mashed potatoes into each bowl. Ladle the hot apple-cider beef stew over the top and scatter with remaining chives (and extra cheddar if you’re feeling bold).