This Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew is perfect for cozy dinners! With tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich broth, it’s a meal you can trust to warm you right up.
I love how simple this stew is to make. Just toss in your ingredients, set it, and let the slow cooker do its magic. Plus, it makes your home smell amazing—pure comfort!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck: This cut is perfect for stew because it gets tender with long cooking. If you can’t find chuck, brisket or round steak can work, though they may vary in tenderness.
Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and onions form the classic mirepoix base. You can switch it up with other root veggies like parsnips or add bell peppers for some color.
Red Wine: While it adds depth, you can skip this if you’re not a fan. Just add more beef broth or even a splash of balsamic vinegar for acidity.
Flour: To thicken the stew, you can use cornstarch or even mashed potatoes instead. If you’re gluten-free, a gluten-free flour blend would be a great substitute.
How Can I Make My Beef Tender and Flavorful?
Getting tender beef is all about the cooking method. Browning the beef is crucial—it develops a rich flavor. Follow these steps:
- Season beef generously with salt and pepper before browning.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches for an even sear.
- Cook low and slow in the crock pot, allowing the flavors to meld. Aim for 7-8 hours on low for best results.
These simple steps will really elevate your stew and ensure that meat melts in your mouth!
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 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with more beef broth)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting beef stew takes about 20 minutes to prepare and then requires 7-8 hours of cooking on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crock pot. Plan for a little waiting, but the delicious aroma and flavors that develop during cooking are well worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. Brown the beef in batches, making sure each piece is nicely seared on all sides. Once browned, transfer the beef to your slow cooker. This step adds incredible flavor to your stew!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, carrot slices, and celery. Sauté these for about 3-4 minutes until they soften slightly. Then, stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for an additional minute to let the flavors combine.
3. Combine Everything in the Slow Cooker:
Transfer the vegetable mix to the slow cooker with the beef. Add the diced potatoes, beef broth, red wine (if using), dried thyme, dried rosemary, and bay leaves. Give everything a good stir to combine all the ingredients.
4. Cook the Stew:
Cover the slow cooker and let it cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The stew is ready when the beef is fork-tender, and the flavors have melded beautifully together.
5. Thicken the Broth:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, mix the flour with a little cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the stew, and let it cook uncovered for the remaining time to thicken the broth. This will make your stew nice and hearty!
6. Final Touches:
Before serving, remember to remove the bay leaves. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. It’s always good to make sure the flavors balance out perfectly!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your delicious beef stew with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color. Serve it hot with some crusty bread on the side for a warming meal that everyone will love!
FAQ for Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen beef, but it’s important to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw the beef overnight in the fridge or place it in a sealed bag and soak it in cold water until defrosted. Cooking from frozen in a slow cooker is not recommended as it can lead to uneven cooking.
What If I Don’t Have Red Wine?
No problem! You can simply leave it out and use an additional cup of beef broth instead. For a little acidity, consider adding a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other veggies like peas, green beans, or mushrooms. Just remember that denser vegetables like potatoes and carrots should still predominate for proper cooking times. Add quicker-cooking veggies towards the last hour of cooking time to maintain their texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. If the stew thickens too much when stored, add a little broth or water when reheating to loosen it up.
