Slow Cooker Beef Stew

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms the heart and fills the belly, this Slow Cooker Beef Stew is just what you need! There’s something magical about coming home to the smell of savory stew bubbling away, especially on a chilly day. This recipe has been a family favorite for years, and it’s perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends. With tender beef and vibrant veggies, every bite is a delightful reminder of home.

What makes this stew truly special is how easy it is to prepare. Just toss everything into your slow cooker and let it work its magic while you go about your day. Plus, it’s a dish everyone loves—perfect for feeding hungry bellies!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Simply chop, season, and let your slow cooker do the rest!
• Family-Friendly: Kids adore the tender beef and colorful veggies—it’s a hit at the dinner table!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep; just store leftovers in the fridge or freezer.
• Heartwarming Flavors: Each spoonful is filled with rich flavors that bring comfort on cool days.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables or grains for added nutrition!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients is half the fun! You’ll find everything you need at your local grocery store. Let’s take a look at what goes into this delicious Slow Cooker Beef Stew:

For the Stew

• 2 ½ pounds stew meat (see notes)
• ½ teaspoon EACH: black pepper, garlic salt, celery salt
• 1/4 cup flour
• 3-6 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons cold butter (divided)
• 2 cups yellow onions (diced)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup apple vinegar
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 beef bouillon cubes
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 5 medium carrots (cut into 1-inch chunks)
• 1 lb. baby Yukon gold potatoes (halved or quartered)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 sprig rosemary
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1/4 cup Cold Water + 3 tablespoons Corn Starch (Optional)
• 2-3 drops Gravy Master (Optional – Adds a richer, darker color)

Variations

One of the best things about this Slow Cooker Beef Stew is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or use ingredients you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken or turkey instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more greens: Toss in some spinach or kale during the last 15 minutes for extra nutrition.
• Change up the vegetables: Feel free to add parsnips, turnips, or even sweet potatoes—whatever sounds good!
• Make it spicy: Add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you like a little kick.

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Step 1: Prepare the Meat

Start by cutting your stew meat into 1-inch cubes. Discard any large pieces of fat; however, don’t worry about marbling within the meat—it adds flavor! Season it with black pepper, garlic salt, and celery salt. Toss well to coat each piece evenly.

Step 2: Flour and Brown

Sprinkle flour over the seasoned meat and toss again. This step helps create a rich sauce later on. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Brown the meat in batches so that it gets that nice golden crust without overcrowding the pan—about 45 seconds per side.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Once all the meat is browned and transferred to your slow cooker, reduce heat to medium and melt 1 tablespoon of butter in the same skillet. Add diced onions and cook until they’re soft and translucent—this brings out their natural sweetness! Then stir in minced garlic for another minute before deglazing with a splash of apple vinegar. Scrape up those delicious bits stuck to the pan!

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Transfer your onion-garlic mixture into the slow cooker along with all remaining ingredients except for peas, corn starch mixture, and reserved butter. Don’t forget those hearty carrots and potatoes—they soak up all those wonderful flavors!

Step 5: Slow Cook Away!

Set your slow cooker on low for about 7½ to 8 hours or high for about 3½ to 4 hours. Keep an eye on your veggies; they should be soft but not mushy.

Step 6: Add Peas & Finish Up

In the last 15 minutes of cooking, throw in those frozen peas for a pop of color and sweetness! When finished cooking, remove bay leaves and rosemary stems before serving.

Step 7: Thicken if Desired

If you’d like to thicken your stew further, mix together cold water with cornstarch and slowly stir it in while gently heating. It will continue thickening as it stands.

Final Touch

Turn off your slow cooker heat and swirl in those last two tablespoons of cold butter for an extra velvety finish—a trick chefs love! If desired, add drops of Gravy Master for that beautiful depth of color.

And there you have it—a hearty bowl of Slow Cooker Beef Stew that’s sure to become a new favorite! Enjoy every comforting bite!

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Creating the perfect slow cooker beef stew is a delightful experience, and a few helpful tips can make all the difference!

• Choose the right cut of meat: Opt for cuts like chuck roast or round steak, which become wonderfully tender when cooked low and slow. This ensures you get that melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes beef stew so comforting.
• Brown the meat: Don’t skip the browning step! Searing the beef before adding it to the slow cooker enhances flavor through caramelization, giving your stew a rich and deep taste.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh rosemary or thyme adds an aromatic touch that dried herbs often can’t match. They infuse the stew with vibrant flavors, making each bite more aromatic and enjoyable.
• Layer your ingredients: Place denser vegetables like potatoes and carrots at the bottom of the pot, as they take longer to cook. This ensures everything cooks evenly and prevents overcooking delicate ingredients like peas.
• Taste before serving: Always taste your stew towards the end of cooking and adjust seasoning as needed. A pinch of salt or a splash of vinegar can brighten flavors beautifully!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Serving slow cooker beef stew can be just as fun as making it! Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some ideas to enhance your presentation.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up your bowl. Plus, it complements the savory flavors beautifully.
• Cracked black pepper: A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper just before serving adds an extra layer of warmth and complexity to each bite.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: Serve with slices of warm, crusty bread for dipping. The hearty texture is perfect for soaking up all that delicious broth!
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette balances out the richness of the stew while adding a refreshing crunch.
• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make an excellent pairing; their smoothness complements the chunky texture of the stew wonderfully.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies such as Brussels sprouts or butternut squash not only enhance your meal’s nutrition but also add vibrant colors to your table.

Enjoy crafting this comforting slow cooker beef stew recipe! It’s sure to become a beloved favorite during those chilly days ahead.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Slow Cooker Beef Stew is a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy hearty, comforting meals throughout the week without much fuss. Make a big batch and store it for busy nights or chilly days!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stew to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the stew cool before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as the stew will expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed.
• Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

Can I make Slow Cooker Beef Stew ahead of time?

Absolutely! This stew is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer. Just reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!

What can I use instead of beef broth in my Slow Cooker Beef Stew?

If you need a substitute for beef broth, consider using vegetable broth or mushroom broth. They add great flavor while keeping your stew delicious and hearty.

How do I thicken my Slow Cooker Beef Stew?

To thicken your stew, mix cornstarch with cold water and stir it in during the last few minutes of cooking. This will help create a rich texture without affecting the flavor.

Can I use other vegetables in my Slow Cooker Beef Stew?

Certainly! Feel free to customize your stew with other veggies such as green beans, parsnips, or even mushrooms. They will all add their unique flavors.

Is this Slow Cooker Beef Stew gluten-free?

To make this stew gluten-free, simply replace the flour used for dusting the beef with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this delicious Slow Cooker Beef Stew! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a chilly day. With its rich flavors and tender ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your experience!