If you’re craving a hearty, comforting dish that warms you from the inside out, this Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s packed with tender chunks of beef, vibrant vegetables, and rich, savory flavors that develop slowly to perfection. Whether it’s chilly weather or just a day when you want something cozy and filling, this stew promises a satisfying meal with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, wholesome ingredients are the secret to this stew’s irresistible flavor and comforting texture. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the tender beef and fresh vegetables to the fragrant herbs and savory broth.
- 2 pounds beef stew meat: Cut into 1-inch cubes for tender, melt-in-your-mouth bites after slow cooking.
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps coat the beef and creates a lovely thickening for the stew.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Brings out the flavors and balances the savory profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick of warmth and depth.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Perfect for searing the beef and locking in those rich flavors.
- 4 cups beef broth: The hearty liquid base that infuses the stew with savory goodness.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Gives a subtle tang and deepens the stew’s color and flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a nuanced umami punch that enhances the meatiness.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses aromatic warmth throughout the stew.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers a woodsy, herbal aroma that complements the beef beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary: Adds a fragrant, piney undertone to the stew.
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced: Provide natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed: Bring comforting heartiness and soak up the flavorful broth.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Add crisp texture and refreshing earthiness.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Contributes a sweet, aromatic base to build rich flavor.
- 1 cup frozen peas: Stirred in at the end for a pop of color and tender bite.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Fresh garnish that brightens the dish just before serving.
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Sear the Beef
Begin by tossing the beef cubes with flour, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated. This step is vital because it not only seasons the meat but helps thicken the stew later on. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the beef in batches, browning all sides. This caramelization locks in flavor and builds the rich base your stew needs. Once browned, transfer the beef to your slow cooker.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables and Seasonings
Next, toss the peeled and chopped carrots, potatoes, celery, and onion into the slow cooker with the beef. Stir in the garlic, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. These ingredients bring layers of savory, herby goodness to every spoonful. Pour in the beef broth and give everything a good mix to combine all those fabulous flavors.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Tender Perfection
Cover your slow cooker and cook the stew on low for 8 to 9 hours, or on high for 4 to 5 hours. This slow, steady heat is what transforms the beef into tender, flavorful pieces and allows the vegetables to soak up the savory broth. Patience here means a stew that tastes like it simmered all day, even though your active cooking time is minimal.
Step 4: Finish with Peas and Adjust Seasoning
About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas to gently warm them through without overcooking. This adds a fresh burst of color and sweetness. Give your stew a taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary—sometimes a pinch more salt or pepper is just what it needs to reach the perfect balance.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley sprinkled on top before serving adds a burst of freshness and a lovely green contrast to the rich, deep hues of the stew. It’s a simple touch that lifts the whole dish.
Side Dishes
Serve this stew with crusty bread to soak up every bit of that luscious broth. Creamy mashed potatoes or a buttery biscuit is another fantastic companion that complements the stew’s hearty texture perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Spoon the stew into rustic bread bowls for a fun and cozy presentation. Alternatively, serve it over creamy polenta or buttered egg noodles for an extra comforting twist that transforms this classic recipe into a special occasion meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover stew tastes just as great the next day, if not better. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld beautifully, making reheating a joy rather than a chore.
Freezing
This Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe freezes wonderfully, making it perfect for meal prep. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the stew has thickened too much in the fridge, add a splash of beef broth or water to restore its perfect, cozy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for the stew?
Absolutely! While stew meat is ideal for slow cooking, chuck roast or brisket cut into cubes also work wonderfully and become tender with low, slow cooking.
Is it necessary to sear the beef before slow cooking?
While you can skip searing, browning the beef first adds layers of flavor and a richer color to the stew that really enhance the final dish.
Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes! You can brown the beef using the sauté function, then pressure cook the stew for about 35-40 minutes. Just add the peas at the end as in the original recipe.
How can I make this stew thicker?
For a thicker stew, stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) during the last 30 minutes of cooking to achieve a perfect, hearty consistency.
Can I add other vegetables to the stew?
Definitely. Root vegetables like parsnips, turnips, or even mushrooms can be great additions. Just keep the cooking time in mind so everything cooks evenly.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about coming home to a pot of Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe that’s been quietly working its magic all day. It’s a dish that never fails to comfort and satisfy, combining simple ingredients into a flavorful celebration of slow-cooked goodness. Give this recipe a try and watch it become a beloved favorite in your kitchen too!
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Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours (low) or 4–5 hours (high)
- Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Slow Cooker Beef Stew is a hearty and comforting classic American dish, featuring tender beef, fresh vegetables, and rich flavors simmered to perfection. Perfect for a cozy meal, this stew requires minimal hands-on time and yields a satisfying, flavorful dinner.
Ingredients
Beef and Seasoning
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Stew Base
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Vegetables
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cup frozen peas (added at the end)
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Coat the Beef: In a large bowl, toss the beef cubes with flour, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated, which helps in browning and thickening the stew.
- Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Working in batches, sear the beef cubes for about 3–4 minutes per batch until browned on all sides to lock in flavor. Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the carrots, potatoes, celery, and onion into the slow cooker with the beef. Stir in the minced garlic, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and dried rosemary to build the stew’s rich flavor base.
- Add Broth and Cook: Pour in the beef broth, stirring everything to combine well. 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.
- Final Touches: About 15 minutes before serving, stir the frozen peas into the stew and let them heat through. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a bright, fresh flavor contrast. Serve hot.
Notes
- For added depth of flavor, deglaze the skillet with a splash of red wine or broth after browning the beef and add the liquid to the slow cooker.
- The stew thickens naturally, but for a thicker consistency, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water and stir it into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Using gluten-free flour and broth makes this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet.
