Perfect Winter Beef Stew

By kscribner

Prep Time: 15 min
Total Time: 2 hr 15 min
Makes: 8 servings, 1-1/4 cups each

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup KRAFT Zesty Italian Dressing
• 2 lb. beef for stew, such as beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch chunks
• 6 slices OSCAR MAYER Bacon, chopped
• 3 cups sliced fresh mushrooms (about 1/2 lb.)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 6 carrots (about 1 lb.), sliced 1-1/2 lb. potatoes (about 3), peeled, cut into large chunks
• 1 can (14-1/2 oz.) stewed tomatoes, undrained
• 1 can (14-1/2 oz.) beef broth

Details

Servings 8
Adapted from kraftfoods.com

Preparation

Step 1

POUR dressing over beef in resealable plastic bag. Seal bag; turn to evenly coat beef with dressing. Refrigerate 30 min. to marinate.

COOK bacon in large saucepan on medium heat 5 min. or until crisp, stirring occasionally. Remove bacon from saucepan; drain.

ADD mushrooms and onions to saucepan; cook on medium-high heat 10 min. or until tender, stirring occasionally. Remove meat from marinade; discard marinade. Add meat, carrots, potatoes, tomatoes, broth and bacon to saucepan; stir.

BRING to boil, stirring occasionally; cover. Simmer on low heat 1 hour 15 min. Uncover; simmer 15 min. or until meat is done and sauce is thickened, stirring occasionally.

Special Extra
For extra flavor, add 1/2 tsp. dried thyme leaves with the broth.

Substitute
Prepare using KRAFT Light Italian Dressing.

How to Prepare Stew in Slow Cooker
Marinate beef and cook bacon, onions and mushrooms as directed. Remove beef from marinade; discard marinade. Add beef, onions, mushrooms and remaining ingredients to slow cooker. Cook 10 to 12 hours on LOW (or on HIGH 5 to 6 hours). Stir in 2 Tbsp. flour mixed with 2 Tbsp. water. Cook 15 min. or until sauce is thickened.