Discover a hearty crockpot beef stew recipe that brings ultimate comfort to your table. This dish is perfect for cozy nights, family gatherings, or meal prep for the week ahead. The slow cooker does all the work, infusing the beef with rich, savory flavors while tenderizing it to perfection. Enjoy the delightful aroma filling your home as this stew simmers away.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: Simply chop, brown, and let the crockpot do the rest. It’s perfect for busy days.
- Deep Flavor: The combination of beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste creates a rich and layered taste.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your palate.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Cook once and enjoy multiple servings throughout the week—ideal for easy lunches or dinners.
- Family-Friendly: This stew is a hit with both kids and adults, making it a go-to for family meals.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious crockpot beef stew, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Skillet
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking; simply set it and forget it while flavors meld beautifully.
- Skillet: Perfect for browning beef, adding depth to the stew’s flavor before it goes into the crockpot.
- Chef’s knife: Ensures efficient cutting of vegetables, which helps them cook evenly in the stew.
Ingredients
For this comforting crockpot beef stew, you’ll need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 pounds boneless stewing beef cubes or chuck
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into large chunks
- 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into large chunks
- 3 stalks celery, chopped
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste (see note)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Pepper, to taste
- 3 bay leaves
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional)
How to Make Crockpot Beef Stew
Step 1: Prep
Gather ingredients. Cut beef chuck roast into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. Peel and cut potatoes into 1-inch pieces, slice carrots, chop onion, and mince garlic.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the beef in batches to get a nice crust.
Step 3: Layer Ingredients
Add browned beef, onion, garlic, potatoes, carrots, and celery to the slow cooker.
Step 4: Prepare Broth Mixture
Mix beef broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour over ingredients in the slow cooker.
Step 5: Add Aromatics
Add bay leaves on top of the mixture. Cover the slow cooker with its lid.
Step 6: Cook
Cook on low for 7–8 hours or on high for 4–5 hours until the beef is tender and vegetables are soft.
Step 7: Thicken (Optional)
For a thicker stew, stir in a cornstarch slurry (mix cornstarch with water) about 30 minutes before cooking ends.
Step 8: Serve
Remove bay leaves before serving. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Enjoy your warm bowl of crockpot beef stew!
This recipe serves about 6–8 people—perfect for hearty family dinners!
How to Serve Crockpot Beef Stew
Crockpot beef stew is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or a cozy dinner for two, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.
With Crusty Bread
- French Baguette: Slice up some fresh baguette for dipping into the rich broth.
- Garlic Bread: The buttery flavor of garlic bread pairs perfectly with the savory stew.
Over Rice or Noodles
- White Rice: A simple bed of rice soaks up the delicious juices.
- Egg Noodles: Serve the stew over egg noodles for added texture and comfort.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
- Thyme: Sprinkling some thyme brings out the earthy flavors of the stew.
As a Pot Pie Filling
- Puff Pastry: Use the stew as a filling for puff pastry to create a comforting pot pie.
- Biscuits: Top individual servings of stew with biscuit dough and bake until golden.
With a Side Salad
- Caesar Salad: A light Caesar salad contrasts nicely with the heaviness of the stew.
- Mixed Greens: Tossed greens provide a refreshing crunch alongside warm beef stew.
How to Perfect Crockpot Beef Stew
Achieving the perfect crockpot beef stew is all about technique and ingredients. Follow these tips for an unbeatable dish.
- Choose Quality Meat: Select high-quality stewing beef for tenderness and flavor.
- Sear the Meat: Browning the beef before adding it to the crockpot enhances its taste through caramelization.
- Layer Ingredients Wisely: Place hearty vegetables at the bottom to ensure even cooking and avoid mushiness.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs add depth; try rosemary or thyme for extra flavor.
- Adjust Seasoning Last: Taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end to prevent over-seasoning during cooking.
- Thicken Smartly: If you prefer a thicker stew, add cornstarch mixed with water towards the end of cooking.
Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Beef Stew
Pair your delicious crockpot beef stew with complementary side dishes for a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a smooth contrast to chunky stew.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted veggies enhances flavors while adding nutrition.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread offers a delightful balance to savory stew dishes.
- Steamed Green Beans: Bright green beans add color and crunch to your plate.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw refreshes your palate after each hearty bite of stew.
- Quinoa Salad: This healthy option packs protein and fiber, making it an excellent complement to beef stew.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a delicious crockpot beef stew, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance the final dish.
- Skipping the Browning Step: Not browning the beef can lead to a less flavorful stew. Always brown in batches for a rich crust.
- Overcrowding the Crockpot: Packing too many ingredients can prevent even cooking. Stick to recommended servings for optimal results.
- Neglecting Seasoning Early: Adding salt later can lead to bland flavors. Season your meat and vegetables before cooking.
- Using Old Ingredients: Freshness matters! Ensure your vegetables and meat are fresh for the best taste and texture.
- Not Adjusting Liquid Levels: Using too little liquid can dry out the stew. Follow the recipe carefully to maintain moisture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Lasts up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Crockpot Beef Stew
- Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Crockpot Beef Stew
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in short increments, stirring frequently until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated thoroughly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making crockpot beef stew:
What cuts of beef are best for Crockpot Beef Stew?
Chuck roast is ideal due to its marbling, which adds flavor and tenderness when cooked slowly.
Can I use frozen vegetables in my Crockpot Beef Stew?
Yes, frozen vegetables can be added directly. However, fresh veggies will provide better texture and flavor.
How do I thicken my Crockpot Beef Stew?
You can stir in a cornstarch slurry about 30 minutes before finishing cooking for a thicker consistency.
Is there a vegetarian version of Crockpot Beef Stew?
Absolutely! Substitute beef with hearty vegetables or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a satisfying meal.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Beef Stew recipe is perfect for cozy nights at home. Its rich flavors and tender ingredients make it a family favorite. Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or herbs for an even more personal touch! Try it out and enjoy the comfort it brings to your table.
Crockpot Beef Stew
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Crockpot Beef Stew. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, this hearty dish combines tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and rich flavors, all simmering to perfection in your slow cooker. With minimal effort required, just chop, brown, and let the magic happen as the stew fills your home with a delightful aroma. Customize it with your favorite ingredients for a personal touch. Enjoy satisfying servings throughout the week—ideal for meal prep or cozy dinners.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6–8 people 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless stewing beef (chuck)
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into chunks
- 4 large carrots, chopped
- 3 stalks celery, chopped
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Seasoning: salt, pepper, bay leaves
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by cutting the beef into bite-sized pieces and chopping vegetables.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the beef in olive oil until it develops a nice crust.
- Transfer browned beef to the slow cooker and layer with onions, garlic, potatoes, carrots, and celery.
- In a bowl, mix beef broth with tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce; pour over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
- Add bay leaves on top; cover and cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours until tender.
- For a thicker stew, stir in a cornstarch slurry during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Remove bay leaves before serving; season to taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
