#1 Copycat McCormick’s Beef Stew Dry Mix Recipe
Disclosure: Grounded in Thyme earns a small commission from some affiliate links at no extra cost. Full Disclosures & Disclaimers.
The Ultimate Copycat McCormick’s Beef Stew Dry Mix Recipe
If you are looking for that classic, nostalgic flavor of a thick and hearty beef stew without the trip to the grocery store, you have come to the right place. This Copycat McCormick’s Beef Stew Dry Mix Recipe is the perfect pantry staple for home cooks who want to control their ingredients while keeping that signature savory taste. There is something uniquely comforting about a slow-cooked stew, but the secret always lies in the seasoning.
Many of us grew up with those familiar packets. They provide the perfect balance of thickening power from flour and a complex blend of herbs like rosemary, thyme, and celery seed. However, store-bought packets often contain anti-caking agents and preservatives that you might want to avoid. By making this Copycat McCormick’s Beef Stew Dry Mix Recipe at home, you can ensure your family is getting a cleaner version of their favorite comfort food.
This dry mix isn’t just about health; it’s about convenience. Keeping a jar of this pre-made seasoning in your cupboard means you are always just minutes away from starting a delicious dinner. Whether you are using a traditional Dutch oven on the stovetop, a set-it-and-forget-it slow cooker, or a speedy Instant Pot, this blend delivers consistent, professional results every time. The flour in the mix acts as a natural thickener, creating that velvety gravy that defines a “Hearty” beef stew.
In this post, we will break down exactly how to assemble this mix, how to store it for maximum freshness, and the best ways to use it to transform a simple 2-pound chuck roast into a five-star meal. Let’s dive into the ingredients and see how easy it is to recreate this kitchen classic.
The Recipe: Copycat McCormick’s Beef Stew Dry Mix
Prep Time: 5 Minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: 15 per serving
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tbsp salt
- 1/2 tbsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tbsp onion powder
- 1/2 tbsp paprika
- 1/4 tbsp celery seed
- 1/4 tbsp dried basil
- 2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Whisk all the ingredients together in a small bowl until fully combined.
- Store the mix in a small, airtight container, like a mason jar, until ready to use.
- Use this seasoning mix as a 1:1 substitute for one packet of McCormick’s beef stew seasoning in your favorite stew recipe.
To use the seasoning mix:
Follow the rest of your beef stew recipe, adding the remaining liquids and vegetables as instructed.
Coat your stew meat (approximately 2 pounds) in the seasoning mix.
Brown the meat in a large pot or Dutch oven with a tablespoon or two of oil.
Copycat McCormick’s Beef Stew Dry Mix Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tbsp salt
- 1/2 tbsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tbsp onion powder
- 1/2 tbsp paprika
- 1/4 tbsp celery seed
- 1/4 tbsp dried basil
- 2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Whisk all the ingredients together in a small bowl until fully combined or pour into a large mason jar and shake it up
- Store the mix in a small, airtight container, like a mason jar, until ready to use.
- Use this seasoning mix as a 1:1 substitute for one packet of McCormick’s beef stew seasoning in your favorite stew recipe.
Notes
Coat your stew meat (approximately 2 pounds) in the seasoning mix.
Brown the meat in a large pot or Dutch oven with a tablespoon or two of oil.
Follow the rest of your beef stew recipe, adding the remaining liquids and vegetables as instructed.
- Yields: 1 packet replacement (approx. 1/2 cup dry mix).
- Servings: 8.
Tips for the Best Copycat McCormick’s Beef Stew Dry Mix Recipe
Now that you have your Copycat McCormick’s Beef Stew Dry Mix Recipe ready, let’s talk about how to get the most flavor out of it. One of the best things about a DIY spice blend is the ability to customize. If you prefer a smokier profile, try using smoked paprika instead of the standard sweet version. If you are watching your salt intake, you can easily cut the salt in half without losing the aromatic depth provided by the garlic and onion powders.
When using this Copycat McCormick’s Beef Stew Dry Mix Recipe, the browning step is crucial. When you coat the beef in the flour-based seasoning and sear it in a hot pan, you are creating a “roux” directly on the meat. This “Maillard reaction” develops deep, caramelized flavors and ensures your stew liquid thickens into a rich gravy as it simmers. Without this step, your stew might end up more like a thin soup.
Storage and Shelf Life
Because this is a dry mix, it has an excellent shelf life. If stored in a cool, dark place in an airtight container, your Copycat McCormick’s Beef Stew Dry Mix Recipe will stay fresh for up to 6 months. I recommend doubling or tripling the recipe and storing it in a 16-ounce mason jar. Just remember that 1/2 cup of the bulk mix equals one standard packet.
See more From Scratch Dry Mix Recipe HERE
Are you following us on Facebook?
