This Easy Crockpot Beef Stew is like a warm hug in a bowl! With tender beef, carrots, and potatoes simmering together, it’s super cozy and delicious.
Honestly, nothing beats coming home to the smell of this stew after a long day. I love serving it with some crusty bread—perfect for soaking up all that flavor!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: You can use chuck roast, which is my go-to for its great flavor and tenderness. If beef isn’t available, try using pork or chicken for a variation, but be mindful of cooking times.
Carrots and Potatoes: Feel free to swap in sweet potatoes for a slightly different flavor. If you’re avoiding carbs, you could use turnips or parsnips instead.
Onion: Yellow onions add sweetness, but white onions or shallots work too. For a milder taste, you can use green onions or the white parts of scallions.
Herbs: While dried thyme and rosemary bring a lot of taste, fresh herbs are even better if you have them! You could also experiment with Italian seasoning. Just keep the quantities in check.
How Do I Get My Beef Perfectly Tender?
Tender beef is essential for a great stew. Here are my tips:
- Start by browning the beef cubes; this enhances flavor. Don’t rush it! Aim for a good sear on all sides.
- Cooking on low for 7-8 hours is key for breaking down the tough fibers, resulting in juicy, tender meat.
- Remember, every slow cooker is different, so check your beef around the last hour. It should pull apart easily with a fork.
Enjoy making your stew, and remember that it gets better after sitting for a bit, so leftovers are a win!
Easy Crockpot Beef Stew Recipe for Hearty Comfort
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
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious beef stew takes about 15 minutes to prep and will need to cook for either 7-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in your crockpot. It’s perfect for a busy day when you want a warm, hearty meal waiting for you when you get home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
Take a large bowl and toss the beef cubes in with the flour, salt, and pepper until they are all evenly coated. This step helps to tenderize the beef and gives your stew a nice thickness.
2. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, transfer the beef to your crockpot.
3. Add the Veggies:
Now, add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the crockpot right on top of the beef.
4. Mix the Stew Base:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, water, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and an extra sprinkle of salt and pepper. This flavorful mixture is what makes the stew delicious!
5. Combine and Season:
Pour the stew base over the meat and veggies in the crockpot. Don’t forget to throw in the bay leaves for some extra flavor!
6. Cook to Perfection:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender and the veggies are cooked through.
7. Final Touches:
Before serving, remember to remove the bay leaves. If you like, you can garnish the stew with some fresh chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish up your hearty beef stew while it’s hot! It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes. Enjoy this cozy meal!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Beef Stew
Can I Use Frozen Beef in This Recipe?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw the beef before cooking. To thaw quickly, place the frozen beef in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about 1-2 hours. This will help ensure even cooking and tenderness!
Can I Make This Stew Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stew a day in advance. Just cook it as instructed, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready, reheat on low in the crockpot or on the stove, adding a bit of water or broth to loosen it up if needed.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you wish to freeze the stew, it will keep well for about 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before placing it in freezer-safe containers.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative. Sweet potatoes, peas, green beans, or even mushrooms make excellent additions. Just remember to adjust cooking times slightly if you add veggies that cook faster than potatoes and carrots.
