Description
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!
Ingredients
- 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.
Instructions
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.
Notes
- 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.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7-8 hours on LOW (or 4-5 hours on HIGH)
- Cuisine: American