This beef stew is a warm and tasty dish that’s perfect for cozy nights. Just throw in some beef, potatoes, carrots, and broth, and let the slow cooker do all the magic!
I love how simple this stew is. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, and it fills the house with a yummy smell while it cooks. Plus, who doesn’t love a one-pot meal? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: Chuck roast works best for a tender stew. You can also use sirloin or round steak. If you’re looking for a leaner option, consider using turkey or a plant-based meat substitute like jackfruit or mushrooms.
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are great for stew, but you can substitute with Yukon Gold or red potatoes. If you’d prefer a low-carb option, try cauliflower instead.
Carrots: Any variety of carrots works, but baby carrots can save you time since they don’t need peeling. You can substitute with parsnips for a different flavor.
Beef Broth: If you’re short on time, store-bought broth is fine. Homemade broth adds personal touch and flavor. Vegetable broth also works for a lighter version.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme are great if you have them on hand. A teaspoon of Italian seasoning can also do the trick if you’re out of the others.
How Do You Brown the Meat Properly?
Browning the beef enhances flavor and gives a nice color to the stew. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Use a large skillet to avoid overcrowding the meat. This allows for better browning.
- Heat oil over medium-high heat until shimmering, then add the beef in a single layer.
- Let the beef sear without moving it for 3-4 minutes, then flip to sear all sides. It should look golden brown.
- Transfer the meat to the crock pot, scraping any brown bits from the skillet to add depth of flavor.
While it’s an extra step, the added flavor is worth it!
Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe for Cozy Meals
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Thickening (Optional):
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty beef stew takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus cooking time of 7-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crock pot. It’s perfect for throwing together in the morning and coming home to a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef (Optional):
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. While this step is optional, it does enhance the flavor of the stew—so if you have the time, it’s worth it!
2. Transfer to Crock Pot:
Once the beef is browned, transfer it to your crock pot, spreading it out evenly.
3. Add Vegetables:
Add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the crock pot. These will cook down and meld beautifully with the beef.
4. Mix the Broth:
In a separate bowl, combine the beef broth, water, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Pour this mixture over the meat and veggies in the crock pot, ensuring everything is well-coated.
5. Add Bay Leaves:
Place the bay leaves into the crock pot for added flavor. Don’t forget to remove them before serving!
6. Set to Cook:
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The beef should be tender and the vegetables fully cooked when it’s done.
7. Thicken the Stew (Optional):
If you’d like a thicker stew, stir together the flour with a small amount of cold water to make a slurry. About 30 minutes before serving, mix this slurry into the stew and continue to cook until thickened.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, remove the bay leaves and serve the stew hot. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or over rice for a hearty, comforting meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Recipe?
While it’s best to use thawed beef for even cooking and better texture, you can use frozen beef. Just add extra cooking time (around 1-2 hours) and ensure the meat reaches appropriate temperatures to be safe to eat.
What Can I Substitute for the Beef Broth?
You can use chicken broth or vegetable broth as a substitute. If you prefer a richer flavor, homemade broth is fantastic, or try using water with bouillon cubes for convenience.
Can This Stew Be Made Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stew a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. The flavors may deepen even more overnight!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Enjoy it as a quick meal on busy days!
