This Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew is like a warm hug in a bowl. With tender beef, hearty veggies, and savory broth, it’s perfect for cozy dinners.
Honestly, there’s nothing like coming home to a kitchen filled with amazing smells! I love how the slow cooker does all the work—just toss in the ingredients and relax.
This stew is super filling and makes great leftovers too! It’s my go-to recipe for busy days when I need something tasty and comforting without much fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck: This cut has enough fat to stay tender and juicy when slow-cooked. If you’re looking for leaner options, consider using sirloin or brisket, but keep in mind they might be less tender.
Carrots and Potatoes: These root vegetables add sweetness and substance. If you want a twist, try sweet potatoes or parsnips. They both bring a nice flavor to the stew.
Red Wine: It’s optional, but it enhances the flavor. If you prefer not to use wine, simply replace it with more beef broth. Apple cider vinegar can also be a good substitute for a bit of tang.
Flour: This helps thicken the stew and gives it a nice texture. Gluten-free flour or cornstarch can be used instead if you need a gluten-free option.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Tender Beef in a Slow Cooker?
The key to tender beef stew is all in the cooking time and temperature. Slow-cooking on low heat allows the beef to break down and become melt-in-your-mouth tender.
- Start by searing the beef cubes; this locks in flavors.
- Layer the ingredients in the correct order (beef first, then vegetables) to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t hurry! Cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours for the best results.
- Let it rest after cooking, as it allows flavors to develop further.
Remember, every slow cooker is slightly different, so it might take a little experimenting to find the perfect timing. Enjoy a delicious, cozy meal!
Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional) or additional beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious beef stew takes about 15 minutes for prep, and then you’ll let it cook for either 7-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high in the crock pot. Perfect for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Searing the Beef:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper, then sprinkle them with flour to coat. Sear the beef in batches until all sides are nicely browned. This step helps build flavor, so don’t skip it! Once browned, set the beef aside.
2. Combining Ingredients in the Crock Pot:
In your crock pot, layer in the browned beef, followed by the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic. This combination will create a flavorful base for your stew.
3. Mixing the Broth:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, red wine (if you’re using it), tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Pour this savory mix over the beef and vegetables in your crock pot. Don’t forget to drop in those bay leaves for extra flavor!
4. Slow Cooking:
Cover the crock pot and set it to cook. Choose low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. Your kitchen will smell amazing as it all cooks together and the beef becomes tender!
5. Final Touches:
Once cooking is complete, remove the bay leaves. Taste your stew and adjust the seasoning if necessary. The flavors should be rich and satisfying.
6. Serving Up:
Garnish each bowl with fresh chopped parsley before serving. This hearty stew is excellent on its own, but pairing it with crusty bread or serving it over mashed potatoes makes it even cozier.
Enjoy your delicious Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew! Perfect for cozy dinners with family and friends.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Recipe?
While you can use frozen beef, it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. Thaw overnight in the fridge or seal it in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for a quick thaw. This step will also help with browning the meat more effectively.
Can I Substitute the Red Wine in This Stew?
Absolutely! If you prefer not to use red wine, simply replace it with an additional cup of beef broth or add a splash of apple cider vinegar for a bit of acidity. The stew will still have great flavor without the wine.
How Do I Store Leftover Beef Stew?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Stew?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative by adding other vegetables like peas, green beans, or mushrooms. Just keep in mind that softer vegetables should be added in the last hour of cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.
