There’s nothing quite like the rich aroma of tender beef simmering slowly in the kitchen on a chilly afternoon. This slow cooker beef stew wraps you in warmth, and it’s become a go-to for busy families craving both comfort and nourishment. As the comforting scent fills your home, you’ll understand why it’s such a cherished classic.
Imagine hearty chunks of beef, earthy root vegetables, and a savory broth melding together effortlessly. It’s like your favorite homestyle stew but made with barely any fuss. The beauty of this dish? You can set it and forget it! This easy recipe pairs perfectly with a warm loaf of bread and a side salad for a complete meal.
I started making this dish years ago during the first winter after my kids were born. One chilly evening, my husband walked in from the cold, took a deep breath, and sighed with happiness. I learned the secret? Browning the meat first brings out a depth of flavor that makes all the difference. After blogging for over a decade, I promisethis recipe is one you’ll want on repeat!
Yesica Andrews
Slow Cooker Beef Stew Easy and Irresistibly Delicious
This Slow Cooker Beef Stew is a rich, comforting dish perfect for chilly days. Loaded with tender beef, golden potatoes, carrots, peas, and infused with red wine and savory herbs, this slow cooker beef stew recipe offers an easy and creamy beef mushroom slow cooker stew experience that will satisfy any appetite.
½ teaspoon EACH: black pepper, garlic salt, celery salt
1/4 cup flour
3-6 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons cold butter divided
2 cups yellow onions diced
4 cloves garlic minced
1 cup cabernet sauvignon or merlot. See notes.
4 cups beef broth
2 beef bouillon cubes
2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce
3 tablespoons tomato paste
5 medium carrots cut into 1-inch chunks
1 lb. baby Yukon gold potatoes halved or quartered
2 bay leaves
1 sprig rosemary
1 cup frozen peas
1/4 cup Cold Water + 3 tablespoons Corn Starch Optional
2-3 drops Gravy Master *Optional*- Adds a richer, darker color.
Method
Trim stew meat into 1-inch cubes, removing any large fat pieces but keeping marbled fat intact.
Season the beef evenly with black pepper, garlic salt, and celery salt; then dust it with flour and toss well.
Heat 3 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, and sear the beef in batches for about 45 seconds on each side; add more oil if necessary. Transfer browned beef to the slow cooker.
Lower the skillet to medium heat and melt 1 tablespoon of butter; cook diced onions for 5 minutes until softened.
Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, then pour in a splash of wine to deglaze the pan, scraping the flavorful bits off the bottom.
Transfer the onion, garlic mixture and remaining wine into the slow cooker.
Add beef broth, beef bouillon cubes, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, carrots, potatoes, bay leaves, and rosemary to the slow cooker, excluding peas, cornstarch mixture, and cold butter.
Cook on low for 7½ to 8 hours or on high for 3½ to 4 hours until vegetables are tender and potatoes can be easily pierced with a fork.
Stir in frozen peas during the last 15 minutes of cooking, then remove the bay leaves and rosemary stem.
If desired, blend cold water with cornstarch and gradually stir into the stew to thicken, allowing it to set.
Turn off heat and gently mix in 2 tablespoons of cold butter to create a smooth, velvety finish.
Optionally, add 2-3 drops of Gravy Master for a deeper, richer color.
Notes
Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Best beef cuts for this stew include chuck roasts, rump roasts, and bottom rounds. You may substitute red wine with beef broth or red grape juice combined with red wine vinegar to maintain tenderness. For a twist, use Guinness stout instead of wine. Stove top method instructions are also available if preferred.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This slow cooker beef stew is not just a dish; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl! Here’s why you’ll adore it:
Simple & Cozy: This easy crockpot beef stew is perfect for busy days, letting you set it and forget it.
Perfectly Hearty: Filled with tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and a rich broth that warms you from the inside out.
Family Approved: A comforting classic that even the pickiest eaters will love; perfect for family gatherings.
Customizable: Feel free to adjust ingredients and spices based on what you have or prefer!
Key Ingredients & Tools
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious stew:
Beef: 2 ½ pounds of stew meat, choose chuck roasts for the best flavor.
Vegetables: Carrots, Yukon gold potatoes, onions, garlic, and frozen peas for freshness.
Flavor Boosters: Red wine, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and spices add depth to your stew.
Essential Tools: A slow cooker, a large skillet for browning, and measuring cups for accurate portions.
How It Works Step-by-Step
Start by cutting your beef into 1-inch cubes, seasoning with black pepper, garlic salt, and celery salt, then dust with flour.
In a skillet, heat olive oil and brown the beef in batches. This adds a rich flavor to your stew.
Next, sauté onions and garlic in the same skillet, scraping up any flavorful bits from the pan.
Transfer everything to the slow cooker, add in the remaining ingredients, and let it simmer!
Cook on low for 7 ½ to 8 hours or high for 3 ½ to 4 hours until everything is tender and beautifully melded together.
Troubleshooting Tips
Meeting little hiccups in the kitchen is normal; here are ways to smooth them out:
Stew Too Thin: Create a cornstarch slurry with cold water and stir it in to thicken.
Vegetables Undercooked: Make sure they’re chopped into equal-sized chunks, so they cook evenly.
Flavor Flat: Add a splash of vinegar or Worcestershire sauce to brighten up the flavors.
Tweaks You Can Make
If you’d like to personalize your stew or adjust it for dietary needs, try these options:
Wine Substitute: Use equal parts beef broth for a non-alcoholic twist.
Paleo or Keto Friendly: Swap in low-carb veggies like cauliflower or turnips instead of potatoes.
Add-Ins: Feel free to include mushrooms, green beans, or even a splash of your favorite stout for a richer flavor!
Serving & Storage Tips
This classic beef stew dump-and-go recipe is a great make-ahead dish!
Tip
Details
Serving Size
Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice for an extra comforting touch.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Final Notes
As you prepare your beef stew, remember it’s all about creating those comforting flavors that wrap you in warmth! Feel free to play with the ingredients and savor the deliciousness of your tender beef vegetable crock pot stew. You’re going to love how easy and rewarding this slow cooker beef stew recipe is to make! Enjoy every hearty bite and the cozy memories it brings!
Expert Says
SLOW COOKER BEEF STEW is a fantastic way to break down tougher cuts of meat. The slow cooking process allows collagen to dissolve into gelatin, resulting in tender meat and a rich, flavorful broth. This method also enhances the absorption of nutrients from the vegetables, making your meal both delicious and nutritious.
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The Journey to My Perfect Slow Cooker Beef Stew
This slow cooker beef stew has been a labor of love, taking numerous attempts to get just right. I remember one time, I accidentally grabbed the cayenne instead of paprika, turning my dinner into a fiery surprise! But after much trial and error, I’ve created a comforting bowl that warms the soul and satisfies the family.
FAQs ( Slow Cooker Beef Stew )
What cut of beef is best for stew?
For this recipe, chuck roast is an excellent choice as it becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked. You can also use brisket or round if you prefer. Make sure to trim excess fat for a healthier dish.
How long to cook beef stew in a slow cooker?
This meal typically needs 7-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high. Cooking it slowly allows the flavors to deepen and the meat to become perfectly tender. Stir occasionally if possible for even cooking.
Can I make beef stew ahead of time?
Yes! This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it.
What vegetables can I use in beef stew?
Common choices include carrots, potatoes, onions, and celery. For a twist, try adding parsnips or sweet potatoes. Ensure your vegetables are cut evenly to cook uniformly in the slow cooker.
Is beef stew gluten-free?
This recipe can easily be made gluten-free by using gluten-free broth and ensuring any thickeners or sauces used are also gluten-free. Always check labels to ensure all ingredients meet your dietary needs.
Conclusion
You’ll love how this slow cooker beef stew turns outrich, hearty, and just bursting with comforting aromas after a day of simmering. It’s effortlessly delicious, making busy evenings a breeze!
Feel free to add your twist; a splash of red wine or different veggies can elevate it even more. Plus, remember, leftovers are a treat! Just heat gently and enjoy another cozy meal. A little trick I picked up? A dollop of creamy mashed potatoes on top takes it to another level!
Did this stew remind you of a cherished family recipe? I’d love for you to share your memories or snap a photo when you make it. Recipes like these are meant to be shared, so pin it or pass it on to someone who needs a warm hug in a bowl!
