Slow Cooker Beef Stew is the ultimate comfort food—a warm, hearty dish that’s perfect for chilly days or when you want a delicious, hands-off meal. The tender beef, soft vegetables, and rich, savory broth all simmer together in the slow cooker, making it a no-fuss dinner that’s full of flavor. Just set it and forget it!
Subscribe to our newsletter to get this recipe delivered straight to your inbox and never miss out on cozy, comforting recipes like this!
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Beef Stew
- Tender and Flavorful: Slow-cooking the beef ensures it’s melt-in-your-mouth tender and packed with flavor.
- One-Pot Meal: Everything cooks together, making cleanup a breeze.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
- Comfort in a Bowl: A warm, hearty meal that feels like a hug on a cold day!
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Beef Stew
To make this comforting stew, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat (chuck roast or brisket, cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for thickening)
- 1/4 cup water
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Tools You’ll Need
- Slow cooker (6-quart size recommended)
- Large skillet for browning the beef
- Whisk or spoon for mixing
- Ladle for serving
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Step 1: Brown the Beef
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef cubes in batches, browning them on all sides for about 4-5 minutes. This step adds extra flavor to the stew but can be skipped if you’re in a hurry.
- Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables
- Add the carrots, potatoes, onion, and garlic on top of the beef in the slow cooker.
Step 3: Make the Broth
- In a bowl, whisk together the beef broth, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, paprika, pepper, and salt. Pour this mixture over the beef and vegetables.
- Add the bay leaves to the slow cooker.
Step 4: Slow Cook
- Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are soft.
Step 5: Thicken the Stew
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, whisk the flour with 1/4 cup of water to make a slurry. Stir it into the stew to thicken the broth.
- Cover and let it continue to cook until the stew has thickened.
Step 6: Serve
- Remove the bay leaves and discard them.
- Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with crusty bread for dipping into the rich, flavorful broth.
- Pair with a side of steamed green beans or a simple side salad for a balanced meal.
- For extra comfort, add a dollop of sour cream or sprinkle grated cheese on top!
Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Beef Stew
- Browning the Beef: While optional, browning the beef before slow cooking adds depth of flavor and makes the stew even more delicious.
- Veggies: You can add other vegetables like peas or mushrooms in the last 30 minutes of cooking for added texture and flavor.
- Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker stew, add more flour slurry. For a thinner stew, use less flour or omit it altogether.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use frozen vegetables?
A: Yes, frozen vegetables can be added in the last hour of cooking to prevent them from becoming too mushy.
Q2: How long will leftovers last?
A: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Q3: Can I freeze the stew?
A: Absolutely! Let the stew cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Conclusion: The Ultimate Comfort Meal
This Slow Cooker Beef Stew is a classic, comforting dish that will warm you from the inside out. With its tender beef, rich broth, and hearty vegetables, it’s a meal that your whole family will love. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner or prepping it for easy weeknight meals, this stew is sure to become a favorite!
Don’t forget to leave a review and share your photos if you make this recipe. We love seeing your culinary creations!
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 400
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 5g
Enjoy every hearty bite of this Slow Cooker Beef Stew, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family!
