If you're looking for a dish that’s as cozy as it is comforting, Slow Cooker Beef Stew is the answer. This classic recipe is packed with melt-in-your-mouth beef, tender vegetables, and a rich, savory broth that’s bursting with flavor. It’s the perfect meal to throw together in the morning and let the slow cooker do all the work. By dinnertime, you’ll have a hearty, satisfying meal that your whole family will love.
The slow cooking process ensures that the beef is tender and the flavors have time to meld together, resulting in a stew that’s deep in flavor and satisfying to the last spoonful. Whether you're serving it with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes, this stew is the ultimate comfort food!
📝 Ingredients (U.S. Standard Measurements)
- 2 pounds beef stew meat (such as chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons water (if using cornstarch)
👨🍳 Instructions
- Sear the beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat in batches, searing on all sides until browned. Transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
- Cook the vegetables: In the same skillet, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until softened, about 3 minutes. Add them to the slow cooker along with the beef.
- Add remaining ingredients: Add the beef broth, potatoes, carrots, celery, peas, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir everything together.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
- Thicken the stew (optional): If you prefer a thicker stew, whisk together the cornstarch and water in a small bowl. Stir this mixture into the stew, then cook for an additional 15–20 minutes until thickened.
- Serve: Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the stew into bowls and serve with crusty bread, over mashed potatoes, or with a side of greens.
🍽 Nutrition Information (Per Serving – serves 6)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 30 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Carbohydrates: 29 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
Nutrition values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used.
💡 Tips & Tricks
- Use a mix of meats: For a richer flavor, try using a mix of stew meat and short ribs.
- Make it spicier: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a bit of heat.
- Substitute with sweet potatoes: If you prefer, you can use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a slightly sweeter, heartier stew.
- Make ahead: This stew keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, and the flavors actually improve after sitting for a day or two. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
- Add some greens: Stir in fresh spinach or kale during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a boost of color and nutrition.
🍽 From Me to You: My Extra Touch ✨
When I make Slow Cooker Beef Stew, I like to add a splash of balsamic vinegar at the end for a touch of acidity that really brightens the dish. I also love serving it with freshly baked bread, so I can soak up every last drop of the rich broth.
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