Steak and Guinness Stew with Irish White Cheddar Cauliflower Mash

This rich, slow-simmered Steak and Guinness Stew is the definition of comfort food—tender beef, hearty vegetables, and deep savory flavor from dark stout beer. It’s paired with a velvety cauliflower mash enhanced by sharp Irish white cheddar, making this dish an irresistible and satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deep, bold flavor from slow-simmered beef and Guinness
• A low-carb, cheesy mash that’s just as comforting as potatoes
• Ideal for meal prep or cozy dinners
• Feels fancy but is easy to make
• A perfect dish for special occasions or cold weather meals

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Steak and Guinness Stew:

• Bacon, chopped
• Beef chuck, cut into bite-sized cubes
• Onion, diced
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Fresh thyme
• Guinness stout
• Beef broth
• Worcestershire sauce
• Tomato paste
• Carrots, peeled and chopped
• Potatoes, diced
• Mushrooms, quartered
• Salt and pepper

For the Irish White Cheddar Cauliflower Mash:

• Cauliflower head, cut into florets
• Butter
• Irish white cheddar, shredded
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Cook the bacon in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside.
2. Brown the beef in batches in the bacon fat, seasoning with salt and pepper. Remove and set aside once browned.
3. In the same pot, sauté onion until softened. Add garlic and thyme, cooking until fragrant.
4. Deglaze with Guinness, scraping the browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for a few minutes.
5. Return the beef and bacon, then stir in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and cover. Simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until beef is tender.
6. Add carrots, potatoes, and mushrooms. Simmer uncovered for another 20–30 minutes until vegetables are soft and the stew thickens slightly. Adjust seasoning.
7. While the stew simmers, steam cauliflower florets until fork-tender, about 10 minutes.
8. Drain the cauliflower well, then mash or blend with butter and shredded white cheddar until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve the stew in bowls topped with a generous scoop of cheesy cauliflower mash.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes

Variations

• Make it even richer: Add a splash of heavy cream to the cauliflower mash.
• Use lamb: Swap beef with cubed lamb shoulder for a twist.
• Root veggie boost: Add turnips or parsnips along with carrots for extra depth.
• No alcohol option: Replace Guinness with additional beef broth and a splash of balsamic vinegar.
• Cheese swap: Use aged cheddar, gouda, or a smoked cheese for a unique mash flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store stew and mash separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat stew on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. Cauliflower mash can be reheated in a microwave or gently in a saucepan with a splash of milk or butter.

FAQs

Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Yes, brown the meat and sauté the aromatics first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4–5 hours.

What can I use instead of Guinness?

Beef broth with a splash of balsamic vinegar or strong brewed coffee works well as an alternative.

Is cauliflower mash really as good as potatoes?

Yes, when blended with Irish white cheddar and butter, it’s creamy, rich, and full of flavor.

Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Yes, just steam or microwave until tender before mashing. Drain well to avoid watery mash.

Does the alcohol cook off in the stew?

Yes, the long simmering time reduces and cooks off the alcohol, leaving behind flavor.

How do I make the stew thicker?

Let it simmer uncovered toward the end or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water).

Can I make this dairy-free?

Use olive oil instead of butter and skip the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese in the mash.

Can I freeze the stew and mash?

The stew freezes well for up to 3 months. The cauliflower mash can be frozen, but the texture may be slightly softer when thawed.

What’s the best cut of beef to use?

Beef chuck is ideal for stews due to its marbling and tenderness when slow-cooked.

Can I serve this with something other than mash?

Yes, traditional mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread are great alternatives.

Conclusion

Steak and Guinness Stew with Irish White Cheddar Cauliflower Mash is a bold, comforting dish that delivers flavor, warmth, and satisfaction in every bite. With its rich gravy, tender beef, and creamy mash, this is a meal that’s meant to be savored—perfect for special dinners or any time you want to treat yourself to something hearty and delicious.

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