This Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew is perfect for cozy dinners! With tender beef, hearty veggies, and a rich broth, it makes any chilly evening feel warm and comforting.
Just toss everything in the pot and let it cook! I love coming home to the smell of dinner ready and waiting for me. It’s like a big hug in a bowl! 🥣
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: I recommend chuck roast for its rich flavor and tenderness when cooked low and slow. If you want a leaner option, use sirloin, but it might not be as tender.
Carrots and Potatoes: Feel free to use other root veggies like parsnips or sweet potatoes if you have them on hand. They add a nice twist!
Onion and Garlic: A yellow onion is perfect here, but you can use a sweet onion for a milder flavor. If you don’t have fresh garlic, a teaspoon of garlic powder will work too.
Red Wine: This adds depth. You can skip it or use extra broth if you prefer a non-alcoholic version. For substitutes, try grape juice or apple cider vinegar for a different flair.
Beef Broth: Homemade broth is great if you have it! Otherwise, store-bought works just as well. Low-sodium varieties help control salt levels.
How Do I Ensure My Beef Stew Turns Out Tender?
To achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture, browning the meat before adding it to the slow cooker is key. This step locks in flavors and gives a better overall taste. Here’s how:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Coat the beef with flour, seasoning it with salt and pepper. This also helps thicken the stew later.
- Brown the beef in batches—don’t overcrowd the pan. You want a nice sear!
Once done, add the beef to the crock pot along with veggies and your broth mixture. Cooking on low for 7-8 hours gives the meat time to become tender and flavorful. Patience is key here!
Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe for Cozy Dinners
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 2 lbs 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
For the Broth:
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
For Seasoning:
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cozy beef stew takes about 20 minutes of prep time. It will need 7-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high in the crock pot to cook. Total time is around 7-8 hours, but most of it is hands-off while it simmers to perfection!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Beef:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Toss the beef cubes with flour, salt, and pepper until they are coated evenly. Brown the beef in batches in the skillet until all sides are nicely seared. This step adds a wonderful depth of flavor to your stew!
2. Adding Vegetables:
Once the beef is browned, transfer it to the crock pot. Now, add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the pot. This mix will make your stew hearty and delicious.
3. Preparing the Broth Mixture:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the beef broth, red wine (if you’re using it), tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and some extra salt and pepper to taste. This broth will be the soul of your stew!
4. Combining Everything:
Pour the broth mixture over the beef and vegetables in the crock pot. Add the bay leaves on top. This will infuse the stew with even more flavor as it cooks.
5. Let It Cook:
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The stew is finished when the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through. Don’t rush this part; good things take time!
6. Final Touches:
Before serving, don’t forget to remove the bay leaves. They’re there for flavor but aren’t edible. Garnish your hearty stew with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of freshness. Serve hot and enjoy every comforting bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Stew?
Yes, you can use frozen beef, but it’s best to thaw it completely before browning. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or use the cold water method by placing it in a sealed bag and submerging it in cold water. This ensures even cooking and better flavor absorption.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this stew gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Use the same amount, and it will work just as well to thicken the stew.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, green beans, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to chop them into similar sizes so they cook evenly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the stew in individual portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave.
