# Baked Beef Stew

> This is such an easy way to make a wonderful beef stew. You don't need to brown the meat first—just combine it with hearty chunks of carrots, potatoes and celery...and let it all cook together in a flavorful gravy.

**Prep time:** 15 minutes
**Cook time:** 1-3/4 to 2 hours (75-120 minutes)
**Total time:** 2 hours 15 minutes
**Servings:** 6-8
**Storage:** Refrigerates 3-4 days

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## Ingredients

- 1 can (14-1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup water
- 3 tablespoons quick-cooking tapioca
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1-1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 medium carrots, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 2 celery ribs, cut into 3/4-inch chunks
- 1 medium onion, cut into chunks
- 1 slice bread, cubed

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## Shopping List

### 🥩 Meat
- [ ] 2 lbs beef stew meat

### 🥬 Produce
- [ ] 4 medium carrots
- [ ] 3 medium potatoes
- [ ] 2 celery ribs
- [ ] 1 medium onion

### 🥫 Pantry
- [ ] 1 can (14-1/2 oz) diced tomatoes
- [ ] 3 tbsp quick-cooking tapioca
- [ ] 2 tsp sugar
- [ ] 1 slice bread

### 🧂 Spices
- [ ] 1-1/2 tsp salt
- [ ] 1/2 tsp pepper

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## Instructions

1. **Combine liquids and seasonings.** In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, water, tapioca, sugar, salt and pepper. Stir in the remaining ingredients.

2. **Transfer to baking dish.** Pour into a greased 13-in. x 9-in. or 3-qt. baking dish. Cover and bake at 375° for 1-3/4 to 2 hours or until meat and vegetables are tender.

3. **Serve in bowls.** Serve in bowls. Yield: 6-8 servings.

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## Notes

- **Tapioca as thickener:** The quick-cooking tapioca thickens the stew beautifully and eliminates the need for flour or cornstarch.
- **No browning needed:** This recipe is designed to save time - you don't need to brown the meat first.
- **Bread cube purpose:** The cubed bread helps thicken the gravy and adds body to the stew.

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## Serving Ideas

- Serve with crusty bread or dinner rolls
- Pair with a simple green salad
- Top with fresh parsley for color
- Serve over mashed potatoes for extra heartiness

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## Nutrition

Per serving (1 cup): 300 calories | 8g fat (3g saturated fat) | 70mg cholesterol | 628mg sodium | 31g carbohydrate | 4g fiber | 25g protein