This Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew is a warm, cozy meal made with tender beef, hearty veggies, and a rich broth. Just toss everything in the pot, and let it cook while you relax!
There’s something magical about coming home to a kitchen that smells like dinner. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! I love serving it with bread for dipping—delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: I prefer chuck roast for its rich flavor and tenderness after slow cooking. You can also use round steak or brisket, but make sure to cut it into even cubes for consistent cooking.
Carrots: While I love using fresh carrots for their sweetness, you can substitute with parsnips for a similar taste or even bell peppers for a different twist. Frozen vegetables work too, just add them closer to the end.
Potatoes: Russets or Yukon Gold are great choices, but you can swap them with sweet potatoes for a unique flavor. Just remember to adjust cooking time, as sweet potatoes can cook quicker!
Red Wine: If you’re not a fan of wine, beef broth is an easy substitute. You could also splash in some apple cider vinegar for a hint of acidity or just skip it altogether.
Flour for Thickening: If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, cornstarch works well. Mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with the same amount of water and add it to the stew as it cooks to thicken it up.
How Do I Achieve the Best Flavor in My Beef Stew?
Getting rich, delicious flavor in your stew is all about layering ingredients and cooking techniques. Here’s what to focus on:
- Browning the Beef: Don’t skip this step! Searing the meat adds depth to the flavor. Make sure your skillet is hot and only do a few pieces at a time so they brown, not steam.
- Garlic and Onions: Sautéing garlic and onions with the beef enhances the overall taste. If you want to avoid pre-cooking, just add them in raw, but sautéing brings out their sweetness.
- Cooking Time: Slow and steady is key. If you have the time, cooking on low for 8 hours will yield the best texture and flavors. If short on time, high for 3-4 hours works, too!
- Seasoning: Check the flavor towards the end of cooking. A dash more salt or pepper can make a big difference. You might even consider fresh herbs or a bit more Worcestershire for an extra boost!
How to Make Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
For Thickening:
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Serving:
- 1 cup frozen peas (added near the end)
- Crusty bread or mashed potatoes (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious beef stew takes about 15 minutes to prep and then it slow-cooks in your crock pot for either 7-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Perfect for a busy day when you want something hearty waiting for you at dinner time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Beef:
Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This step really enhances the flavor of your stew, although you can skip it if you’re short on time.
2. Combine Ingredients:
Once the beef is browned, transfer it to your crock pot. Then, add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic right into the pot.
3. Mix the Liquid:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, water, red wine (if you chose to use it), tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, thyme, and rosemary. This aromatic mix will be the heart of your stew!
4. Pour and Cook:
Pour the liquid mixture over the beef and veggies in the crock pot. Toss in the bay leaves, then cover the pot.
5. Slow Cook the Stew:
Now, set your crock pot to low and let it cook for 7-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The goal is to let the meat become tender and the vegetables fully cooked. Just relax and let it do its magic!
6. Add the Peas:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the frozen peas to warm them up and add a pop of color to your stew.
7. Thicken the Stew:
If you’d like a thicker stew, mix the flour with a small amount of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the crock pot and cook uncovered for another 20-30 minutes until it thickens up nicely.
8. Final Touches:
Be sure to remove the bay leaves before serving. Give your stew a final taste and adjust any seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish up the hearty beef stew while it’s hot. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or can be served over creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew
Can I Use Leftover Roast Beef for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you have leftover roast beef, you can cut it into cubes and add it to the crock pot. Just reduce the cooking time to about 1-2 hours on low, since it’s already cooked and you just want to heat it through and blend the flavors.
What Can I Substitute for Red Wine?
If you’d rather not use red wine, you can simply use additional beef broth or water. For a touch of acidity, try adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar, but use it sparingly!
Can I Add Different Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with vegetables like parsnips, bell peppers, or even green beans. Just remember that root vegetables like carrots and potatoes will hold up better during long cooking times, while softer vegetables may need to be added later.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the stew for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
