Slow Cooker Beef Stew is a classic comfort food that’s full of tender beef, hearty vegetables, and rich, savory flavors. This easy recipe lets your slow cooker do all the work, delivering a warm and satisfying meal that’s perfect for chilly days or cozy nights. Just toss in the ingredients, set it, and let the slow cooker create a delicious stew that’s ready whenever you are.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 medium potatoes, cut into chunks
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with extra beef broth)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup frozen peas
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and black pepper. Add the beef stew meat and toss to coat evenly.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the floured beef cubes in batches, browning them on all sides. This step helps add rich flavor to the stew. Once browned, transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
Step 3: Add Vegetables
Add the carrots, potatoes, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker with the browned beef.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Stir until well combined, then pour the mixture over the beef and vegetables in the slow cooker. Add the bay leaf.
Step 5: Cook
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-9 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
Step 6: Add Peas
About 30 minutes before serving, add the frozen peas to the slow cooker and stir to combine. Let the stew continue cooking until the peas are heated through.
Step 7: Serve
Remove the bay leaf before serving. Serve the stew warm with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.
Cook Notes
- Browning the Beef: Browning the beef before adding it to the slow cooker adds depth of flavor, but you can skip this step if you’re short on time.
- Red Wine: The red wine adds richness to the stew, but you can substitute it with extra beef broth if you prefer.
- Vegetable Size: Cut the vegetables into larger chunks so they hold their shape during the long cooking time.
Variations
1. Beef and Barley Stew
Add 1/2 cup pearl barley to the stew for added texture and heartiness. Add an extra 1 cup of beef broth to account for the barley’s absorption.
2. Mushroom Beef Stew
Add 2 cups sliced mushrooms to the stew for an earthy flavor that pairs well with the beef.
3. Spicy Beef Stew
Add 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes to the broth mixture for a spicy kick that complements the rich flavors of the stew.
Serving Suggestions
- With Crusty Bread: Serve the stew with a side of crusty bread for dipping, perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.
- Over Mashed Potatoes: Spoon the stew over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes for an extra comforting meal.
- With a Green Salad: Pair the stew with a simple green salad to add some freshness and balance to the meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Slow Cooker Beef Stew Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can make the stew up to 1 day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stovetop or in a slow cooker set to low until warmed through.
How Do I Store Leftover Beef Stew?
Store any leftover beef stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Yes, you can use chuck roast, bottom round, or any other cut of beef that’s suitable for slow cooking. Just make sure to cut it into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
Slow Cooker Beef Stew is the ultimate comfort food—hearty, flavorful, and easy to prepare. Just let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy the wonderful aroma filling your home. Whether served with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or just on its own, this stew is sure to be a family favorite. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a cozy, satisfying meal anytime!
Did you make this recipe? Share your experience in the comments below and let us know how it turned out!
