Game day is all about excitement, cheering for your favorite team, and, of course, indulging in delicious food. Imagine your friends gathered around, enjoying a warm, hearty stew that not only fills their bellies but also makes them ask for seconds! These make-ahead stews are not just easy to prepare; they pack a flavorful punch that will have everyone raving long after the final whistle blows.
Beef and Guinness Stew

Beef and Guinness Stew from RecipeTin Eats
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 3 h 10 min Total Time: 3 h 10 min.

Beef & Guinness stew with carrots from BBC Good Food
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 3 h 30 min Total Time: 3 h 30 min.
If you’re looking for a stew that’s rich and full of flavor, this Beef and Guinness Stew is a winner! The combination of tender beef, earthy vegetables, and a splash of dark, bold Guinness creates a deep, robust flavor that makes each bite a cozy experience. The secret to making this dish special is the slow-cooking technique; letting it simmer for hours allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it a go-to for any gathering.
This stew is popular not just for its taste but also for its inviting aroma that fills your kitchen. Picture this: you walk in after a long day, and the scent of savory beef and aromatic herbs greets you like a warm hug! Serve it with some crusty bread, and you’ll have a game day hit that everyone will want to recreate at home.
Chicken and Chorizo Stew

Spanish Chicken and Chorizo Stew from Effortless Foodie
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 30 min Total Time: 30 min.

Slow Cooker Chicken and Chorizo Stew from Taming Twins
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 4 h 35 min Total Time: 4 h 35 min.
Get ready for a flavor explosion with this Chicken and Chorizo Stew! This dish brings together the juiciness of chicken and the spicy, smoky kick of chorizo, creating a delightful contrast that will tantalize your taste buds. The cooking method here is all about layering flavors; browning the chorizo first releases those delicious oils, which infuse the chicken and veggies with a mouthwatering taste.
<pWhat sets this stew apart is its vibrant color and hearty texture. It’s like a fiesta in a bowl, making it perfect for game day celebrations! Plus, it’s easy to prepare in advance and just reheat when your guests arrive, allowing you to enjoy the game without stress.
Vegetarian Lentil Stew

Make-ahead Beef Stew with Mushrooms and Potatoes from Marilena's Kitchen
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Red potatoes, red wine, tomato paste, red onions, carrots Total Time: 2 hr 10 min.

Brunswick Stew from The Kitchn
Rating: 3. Ingredients: Pulled pork, frozen lima beans, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, barbecue sauce Total Time: 1 hr.

Slow Cooker Beef Stew (with Instant Pot option) from Fountain Avenue Kitchen
Ingredients: Chuck roast, ribs, baby potatoes, baby carrots, stewed tomatoes
For a lighter yet equally comforting option, try this Vegetarian Lentil Stew! Packed with protein-rich lentils, fresh veggies, and aromatic spices, this stew is both hearty and healthy. The cooking technique focuses on sautéing the vegetables first to bring out their natural sweetness, then adding lentils and broth to create a thick, satisfying texture.
<pThis recipe is special because it caters to everyone, including your vegetarian friends, without sacrificing flavor. Plus, the vibrant colors of the vegetables make it a feast for the eyes as well. Serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs, and watch your friends go back for seconds, completely unaware it’s meat-free!