Slow Cooker Beef Stew

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of tender, slow-cooked beef stew on a chilly evening. This slow cooker beef stew recipe delivers comforting flavors and fork-tender meat. The ingredients meld together beautifully. It’s a truly satisfying meal.

I love how this dish practically makes itself. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights. Just set it and forget it. Your kitchen will smell amazing all day.

Why I Love This Recipe

This slow cooker beef stew is a true winner for so many reasons!

• Effortlessly Easy: Toss ingredients in, set the timer, and walk away. It’s that simple!
• Incredible Flavor: The slow cooking process makes the beef unbelievably tender and the broth rich.
• Perfect for Busy Days: A comforting meal ready when you are. No last-minute kitchen stress.
• Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a hearty, delicious dish that everyone loves.

Slow Cooker Beef Stew Ingredients

The magic of a truly great beef stew lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. They come together in the slow cooker to create something spectacular. Each component plays a vital role. You get amazing depth of flavor.

Core Ingredients:

• Beef Stew Meat: This is the star, of course. Cut into cubes, it becomes incredibly tender.
• Olive Oil: A little bit helps brown the meat. It adds foundational flavor.
• Onion and Garlic: These aromatics build the flavor base. They make the stew smell wonderful.
• Beef Broth: Provides essential liquid. It creates a rich, savory broth.
• Diced Tomatoes: Adds a touch of acidity and sweetness. They also help with thickening.
• Tomato Paste: Concentrated tomato flavor boosts richness. It deepens the stew’s color.
• Worcestershire Sauce: This adds a savory, umami punch. It makes the flavors sing.
• Dried Thyme and Rosemary: Classic herbs for stews. They offer an herby aroma.
• Carrots, Potatoes, and Celery: These hearty vegetables make it a complete meal. They soak up all the delicious flavors.

Substitutions and Tips:

Don’t have fresh thyme? Dried works perfectly. Feel free to swap potatoes for sweet potatoes. For a richer taste, a splash of red wine can be added with the broth. If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce is a decent alternative. Remember, exact amounts are in the recipe card!

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Begin by patting your beef stew meat dry. Use paper towels for this step. Then, season it really well. Use salt and pepper generously. This simple step helps create a better crust.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Heat olive oil in a big skillet. Use medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches. Make sure to brown it on all sides. Do not overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding will steam the meat. Steam makes it less tender. Transfer the browned beef straight into your slow cooker. This slow cooker beef stew needs browned meat for great taste.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Add the chopped onion to the same skillet. Cook it until it’s nice and soft. Usually, this takes about three to five minutes. Next, add the minced garlic. Cook it for just one more minute. You want it fragrant, not burnt. Scrape up any browned bits from the pan bottom. Transfer this onion and garlic mixture to the slow cooker. These build a wonderful flavor base.

Step 4: Combine Liquids and Seasonings

Pour the beef broth into the slow cooker. Add the undrained diced tomatoes. Stir in the tomato paste. Add the wonderful Worcestershire sauce. Sprinkle in the dried thyme and rosemary. Give everything a good stir. Make sure it’s all combined well.

Step 5: Add Vegetables

Now it’s time for the fresh veggies. Add the carrots first. Then add the potatoes. Finally, add the celery pieces. Stir again to coat them in the liquid. This easy beef stew is coming together.

Step 6: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover your slow cooker tightly. Cook on the low setting. This usually takes six to eight hours. For a quicker meal, use the high setting. It will be done in three to four hours. The beef should be fork-tender. Check it with a fork. It should pull apart easily.

Step 7: Thicken the Stew (Optional)

If you like a thicker stew, here’s a little trick. Mix cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl. Whisk them until smooth. Stir this mixture into the stew. Do this during the last thirty minutes of cooking. Let it cook until the stew is beautifully thickened. This is your homemade beef stew.

Step 8: Final Touches

Taste the stew. Adjust seasonings if needed. Add more salt or pepper. Maybe a pinch more herbs. Serve your delicious, hearty stew piping hot. Enjoy this perfect crock pot beef stew.

How to Store Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Leftover slow cooker beef stew stores beautifully. Cool it completely first. Then, put it into an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for about three to four days. For longer storage, freeze it. Spoon portions into freezer-safe containers or bags. Frozen stew lasts for up to three months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Tips for Success

• Patting the beef dry is key for a good sear.
• Don’t skip browning the beef. It builds flavor.
• Chop veggies uniformly for even cooking.
• Taste and adjust seasonings before serving.
• For a richer broth, add a splash of red wine.
• Using low-sodium broth helps control saltiness.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Gathering your kitchen tools makes cooking a breeze. Here’s what you’ll need for this easy beef stew.

• Slow Cooker: Your trusty appliance for hands-off cooking. Any basic model works fine.
• Large Skillet: For browning the beef. A cast-iron skillet is wonderful here.
• Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for prepping vegetables.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient amounts.
• Spatula or Wooden Spoon: For stirring and scraping.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty slow cooker beef stew deserves some lovely accompaniments. Here are a few ideas to complete your meal.

• Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
• A simple green salad offers a refreshing contrast.
• Pair with a robust red wine or apple cider.
• Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Slow Cooker Beef Stew ahead of time?

Yes, absolutely! This easy beef stew is a fantastic make-ahead meal. You can even let it cool and refrigerate it overnight. The flavors meld even more beautifully. Gently reheat it on the stovetop or in the slow cooker on warm.

Can I use a different cut of beef?

While beef stew meat is ideal for tenderness, you can try chuck roast cut into cubes. Just ensure it’s a cut that benefits from slow cooking. Trimming excess fat is a good idea. This ensures your crock pot beef stew is not too greasy.

How can I make the stew thicker if I don’t use cornstarch?

If you prefer not to use cornstarch, you can thicken your slow cooker beef stew in other ways. Mash some of the cooked potatoes against the side of the slow cooker. You can also remove about a cup of the liquid, mix it with a tablespoon of flour, and whisk it back in. Simmer for a bit longer until it thickens.

Can I add other vegetables to my beef stew?

Definitely! This hearty stew is very forgiving. Feel free to add other root vegetables like parsnips or turnips. Peas or green beans can be stirred in during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Get creative with your favorite veggies!

Print