Fall Apple Cider Stew over Mashed Potatoes Recipe

If autumn has a signature meal, it’s this soul-warming Fall Apple Cider Stew over Mashed Potatoes. Tender cubes of sirloin are simmered in sweet-tart apple cider with rich beef broth, hearty carrots, and onions, then spooned over the fluffiest mashed potatoes mixed with cheddar, chives, and sour cream. Every bite is cozy comfort, bursting with the flavors of the season. This delicious apple cider dinner is seriously requested on repeat in my family, and I bet yours will love it just as much!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind Fall Apple Cider Stew over Mashed Potatoes is in how the simplest ingredients work together to capture all the luscious, reassuring tastes of autumn. Each has a unique role—bringing richness, sweetness, or that perfect creamy base for the stew. Here’s what you’ll need and why each piece matters:

• Olive oil: Helps brown the beef and infuses savory flavor into the base of the stew.
• Butter: Adds richness and depth to both the stew and the potatoes, tying the dish together.
• Top sirloin cubes (3/4 lb): The star protein, keeping each bite juicy and flavorful.
• Salt and pepper: These essential seasonings bring out all the best in every other ingredient.
• Apple cider (2 cups): The heart of this meal—it delivers sweetness and that unmistakable autumn vibe.
• Beef broth (1/2 cup): A little bit goes a long way toward creating a savory, well-rounded gravy.
• Large onion (chopped): Sweetens as it cooks, layering in robust, comforting flavor.
• Carrots (2 medium, peeled and chopped): These add earthiness, color, and natural sweetness.
• Large potatoes (6): Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes make a hearty, fluffy base for soaking up the stew.
• Milk (1/4 cup): Creates ultra-creamy mashed potatoes for the perfect base.
• Sour cream (1/4 cup): Adds a tangy zip and rich texture to the mash.
• Sharp cheddar cheese (1 cup, shredded): Brings melty goodness and big cheese flavor.
• Chives (3 tablespoons): Sprinkle these for a pop of color and mild onion flavor that finishes the dish.

How to Make Fall Apple Cider Stew over Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Brown the Sirloin

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add olive oil and butter. Once hot, quickly toss your sirloin cubes with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Brown the beef on all sides, which should take about 6 to 8 minutes. This step is where flavor layers start to build, so be patient and don’t overcrowd the pan.

Step 2: Add Onions and Carrots

Push the browned beef to one side and add the chopped onions and carrots to the skillet. Let them cook together with the beef for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onions soften and everything starts to mingle. The vegetables will absorb those delicious bits left at the bottom of the pan.

Step 3: Build the Stew Base

Sprinkle a generous spoonful of flour over the beef and veggies, stirring to coat everything evenly. Let it cook for a minute or two—this will help your stew thicken beautifully. Pour in the apple cider and beef broth, scraping the pan to get up all those flavorful bits. Bring it all to a boil, enjoying how the amazing scents fill your kitchen.

Step 4: Braise in the Oven

Once the stew comes to a good boil, cover your pan or Dutch oven and slide it into the preheated oven. Let it cook for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours; this slow braise will make the beef mouthwateringly tender and let those autumn flavors meld together into dreamy perfection.

Step 5: Make the Mashed Potatoes

While the stew is finishing, peel and chop your potatoes, then simmer them in a large pot of salted water until fork-tender (around 15 minutes). Drain the potatoes well and return them to the pot. Add milk, sour cream, and sharp cheddar, then mash until creamy and smooth. Finish with chives for a fresh, herby kick.

Step 6: Serve and Savor

Scoop a cloud of those cheddar mashed potatoes onto each plate or shallow bowl, then ladle the rich Fall Apple Cider Stew over Mashed Potatoes right on top. Let that savory-sweet sauce soak in and dig right into your new favorite fall comfort meal!

How to Serve Fall Apple Cider Stew over Mashed Potatoes

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chives is always a go-to, but you can also finish Fall Apple Cider Stew over Mashed Potatoes with a touch more sharp cheddar or a few thin apple slices for an extra pop of color and brightness. For true autumn flair, try adding a handful of crispy fried shallots on top!

Side Dishes

Serve with warm crusty bread to soak up the stew, or pair it with a roasted beet or arugula salad for some freshness to cut through the richness. Roasted Brussels sprouts and glazed green beans are seasonal winners too, making your meal feel like a mini fall feast.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want a fun twist, scoop the mashed potatoes into individual ramekins and top each with stew for a cozy, personalized feel. For gatherings, set up a “stew bar” with toppings like extra cheese, chives, and hot sauce so everyone can build their own perfect bowl of Fall Apple Cider Stew over Mashed Potatoes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers keep beautifully! Simply store the stew and mashed potatoes separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator, and you’ll have a hearty lunch or dinner ready for up to 4 days. The flavors only deepen as they sit, making reheated bowls nearly as good as the first time around.

Freezing

If you want to freeze, just pop the cooled stew into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags (leave some room for expansion). Mashed potatoes can be frozen too, but for best texture, reheat gently and mix in a splash of milk or butter to refresh them.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the stew on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a bit of broth or water if it’s thickened up too much. For mashed potatoes, reheat with a lid (or wrapped in foil in the oven) and stir well. Serve stew over potatoes again and enjoy!

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Absolutely! While top sirloin keeps things tender and quick, you can substitute stew meat or chuck—just allow for a bit of extra braising time if needed for those tougher cuts.

Can I make Fall Apple Cider Stew over Mashed Potatoes in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef, sauté the vegetables, and then add everything (except the potatoes) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4, then make your mashed potatoes as usual right before serving.

What kind of apple cider is best?

Fresh, unfiltered apple cider (not apple juice) brings the best flavor. If your cider is especially sweet, a splash of lemon juice can balance things out.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Definitely! Swap the beef for hearty mushrooms or a plant-based meat substitute, use vegetable broth, and keep all those other cozy flavors the same. Fall Apple Cider Stew over Mashed Potatoes is delicious with veggie variations!

Is this recipe gluten free?

The only gluten culprit is the flour used to thicken the stew. Trade it out for a gluten free all-purpose flour blend or a spoonful of cornstarch whisked into cold broth for the same delicious results.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about digging into a bowl of Fall Apple Cider Stew over Mashed Potatoes as the days get crisp and the leaves turn. I hope this recipe finds a place on your fall table and in your heart—give it a try, share it with friends, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a new autumn tradition in your home!

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