Slow Cooker Beef Stew

If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty meal that practically cooks itself, this Slow Cooker Beef Stew is the answer. Tender chunks of beef, soft vegetables, and a rich, savory broth come together in the slow cooker to create the ultimate cozy dish. Perfect for busy days when you want a home-cooked meal with minimal effort!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work.
• Rich and Flavorful: Slow cooking allows the flavors to deepen, creating a delicious stew.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Even better the next day!
• One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Beef Chuck (2 lbs, cut into 1-inch cubes) – The best cut for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Carrots (3, sliced into chunks) – Adds natural sweetness and color.
• Potatoes (3, diced into bite-sized pieces) – Russet or Yukon Gold work best.
• Celery (2 stalks, chopped) – Enhances the stew’s depth of flavor.
• Onion (1 large, chopped) – A key ingredient for richness.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Adds a savory punch.
• Tomato Paste (2 tbsp) – Helps thicken the broth and adds a subtle tang.
• Beef Broth (4 cups) – The base of the stew, keeping everything flavorful.
• Worcestershire Sauce (2 tbsp) – Boosts the umami taste.
• Soy Sauce (1 tbsp) – Deepens the flavor.
• Dried Thyme (1 tsp) – Brings an earthy, herby aroma.
• Bay Leaf (1) – Infuses the stew with a classic taste.
• Salt & Pepper (to taste) – Adjust according to preference.
• Cornstarch (2 tbsp, mixed with 3 tbsp water) – For thickening the stew.

Tools You’ll Need

• Slow cooker (at least 6-quart capacity)
• Cutting board and knife
• Wooden spoon for stirring

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Step 1: Brown the Beef (Optional, but Recommended)

• Heat a large pan over medium-high heat. Add a little oil and sear the beef cubes until browned on all sides. This step locks in flavor!

Step 2: Load the Slow Cooker

• Add the carrots, potatoes, celery, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker.
• Place the seared beef on top of the vegetables.

Step 3: Make the Broth

• In a small bowl, mix together the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
• Pour the broth mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker.

Step 4: Let It Cook

• Cover and cook on LOW for 7-8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours until the beef is tender.

Step 5: Thicken the Stew

• In the last 30 minutes of cooking, mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir it into the stew to thicken the broth.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

• Remove the bay leaf, give everything a good stir, and taste for seasoning.
• Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice for a heartier meal.

What to Serve with This Stew

• Crusty Bread – Perfect for soaking up the rich broth.
• Steamed Rice – Makes it even more filling.
• Green Salad – A fresh contrast to the hearty stew.

Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Beef Stew

• Use the Right Cut of Beef: Chuck roast is best because it becomes tender when slow-cooked.
• Don’t Skip the Searing: Browning the beef adds extra depth to the flavor.
• Add Veggies at the Right Time: Root vegetables hold up well, but if adding softer veggies (like peas), stir them in during the last 30 minutes.
• Make it Ahead: Stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Let cool completely, then freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave in 1-minute intervals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this without a slow cooker?
Yes! Simmer everything in a large pot over low heat for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender.

Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs or even lamb for a different take on the stew.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Just swap out the soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos and ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Beef Stew is a no-fail recipe that delivers bold flavors, tender meat, and the ultimate cozy meal with minimal effort. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a weekend comfort meal, this stew is sure to become a family favorite.

Don’t forget to rate this recipe and share your pictures! Happy cooking!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 7-8 hours on LOW (or 4-5 hours on HIGH)
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 320 | Protein: 28g | Carbohydrates: 30g | Fat: 10g | Fiber: 5g | Sodium: 680mg

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