Top 7 Irish stew recipes to try this fall 2026

As the crisp autumn air settles in during 2026, there's nothing quite like a hearty bowl of Irish stew to warm your soul. Irish stew is a classic comfort food that has been cherished for generations. This fall, why not try your hand at some of the best Irish stew recipes out there? Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, these recipes will help you create a delicious, comforting meal that your family and friends will love.

Classic Irish Stew

The classic Irish stew is a timeless recipe that showcases the simplicity and richness of traditional Irish cooking. This stew is made with lamb, potatoes, carrots, and onions, all simmered together to create a hearty and flavorful dish.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb lamb shoulder, cut into cubes
  • 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the lamb cubes and brown on all sides. Remove the lamb from the pot and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, add the onion and garlic. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the carrots, potatoes, thyme, rosemary, and tomato paste. Stir to combine.
  4. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the lamb is tender.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!

Modern Twist on Irish Stew

For those looking to add a modern twist to the classic Irish stew, this recipe incorporates red wine and bay leaves for an extra layer of depth and flavor. It's perfect for a special fall dinner in 2026.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb lamb shoulder, cut into cubes
  • 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup red wine
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the lamb cubes and brown on all sides. Remove the lamb from the pot and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, add the onion and garlic. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the carrots, potatoes, thyme, rosemary, and tomato paste. Stir to combine.
  4. Pour in the beef broth and red wine. Add the bay leaves and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the lamb is tender.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!

Vegetarian Irish Stew

For those who prefer a vegetarian option, this Irish stew recipe is just as hearty and delicious. It uses hearty vegetables and lentils to create a satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

  • 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup green lentils
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the carrots, potatoes, thyme, rosemary, and tomato paste. Stir to combine.
  3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Add the lentils, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the lentils are cooked.
  4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!

Irish Stew with Guinness

This Irish stew recipe features the rich and malty flavor of Guinness, making it a perfect dish for fall 2026. The Guinness adds depth and a unique taste to the traditional stew.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb lamb shoulder, cut into cubes
  • 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup Guinness
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the lamb cubes and brown on all sides. Remove the lamb from the pot and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, add the onion and garlic. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the carrots, potatoes, thyme, rosemary, and tomato paste. Stir to combine.
  4. Pour in the beef broth and Guinness. Bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the lamb is tender.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!

Slow Cooker Irish Stew

For a convenient and hands-off approach, try this slow cooker Irish stew recipe. It's perfect for busy fall days in 2026 when you want a hearty meal without the hassle.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb lamb shoulder, cut into cubes
  • 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

  1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the lamb cubes and brown on all sides. Remove the lamb from the skillet and place it in the slow cooker.
  2. In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the carrots, potatoes, thyme, rosemary, and tomato paste. Stir to combine and transfer to the slow cooker.
  3. Pour in the beef broth, cover, and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the lamb is tender.
  4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!

Irish Stew with Root Vegetables

This Irish stew recipe incorporates a variety of root vegetables for added texture and nutrition. It's a great way to enjoy the flavors of fall in 2026.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb lamb shoulder, cut into cubes
  • 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 1 parsnip, peeled and sliced
  • 1 turnip, peeled and diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the lamb cubes and brown on all sides. Remove the lamb from the pot and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, add the onion and garlic. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the potatoes, carrots, parsnip, turnip, thyme, rosemary, and tomato paste. Stir to combine.
  4. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the lamb is tender.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!

Irish Stew with Herbs and Spices

For a more flavorful Irish stew, this recipe includes a variety of herbs and spices. It's perfect for those who love a bit of extra kick in their dishes this fall 2026.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb lamb shoulder, cut into cubes
  • 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the lamb cubes and brown on all sides. Remove the lamb from the pot and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, add the onion and garlic. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the carrots, potatoes, thyme, rosemary, oregano, cayenne pepper, and tomato paste. Stir to combine.
  4. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the lamb is tender.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!

Conclusion

This fall 2026, there's no better way to warm up than with a hearty bowl of Irish stew. Whether you prefer the classic recipe or want to try something new with a modern twist, these top 7 Irish stew recipes have something for everyone. From traditional ingredients to unique additions like Guinness and root vegetables, you'll find a recipe that suits your taste. So, gather your ingredients, grab your apron, and get cooking! Your family and friends will thank you for the comforting and delicious meal.