As I walked into my kitchen on a chilly Sunday afternoon, the comforting scent of simmering beef and herbs wrapped around me like a warm embrace. It was the perfect moment to dust off my trusty crockpot and whip up a hearty Crockpot Beef Stew. This dish has become my go-to for those days when I crave something nourishing yet simple to prepare—because who doesn’t love a meal that practically cooks itself?
With tender chunks of beef mingling with vibrant carrots and creamy potatoes, this stew is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, effortlessly transforming even the dullest weeknight dinner into a feast. And let’s not forget about those frozen peas casually added at the end, giving a pop of color and sweetness that ties it all together.
Whether you’re looking to impress a loved one or simply yearning for something homemade amidst a sea of takeout, this recipe is your answer. Grab your apron, and let’s dive into this deliciously comforting Crockpot Beef Stew!
Why You'll Love This Crockpot Beef Stew
- This Crockpot Beef Stew is the epitome of ease, allowing you to throw everything into the crockpot and let it work its magic while you go about your day.
- The flavors meld beautifully together, creating a rich and hearty dish that makes every bite a delight to savor.
- Its versatility means you can easily swap ingredients or add your favorite vegetables to make it your own.
- With its vibrant colors and inviting aroma, this stew is as visually appealing as it is delicious, sure to impress anyone at your dinner table.
Crockpot Beef Stew Ingredients
Get ready to create a warm, hearty dish!
For the Stew
• 2 pounds beef chuck – the key to a tender stew after long, slow cooking.
• 4 cups beef broth – provides a deep, savory flavor base.
• 4 medium carrots – slice them for a natural sweetness and vibrant color.
• 4 medium potatoes – they add creaminess and heartiness to every mouthful.
• 1 medium onion – its sweetness caramelizes beautifully during cooking.
• 3 cloves garlic – a must for that aromatic, comforting backbone of flavor.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste – it adds depth and richness to the overall flavor.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – enhances the umami taste of the stew.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme – this herb complements the beef perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary – it brings a fragrant earthy note to the dish.
• Salt and pepper (to taste) – essential for seasoning and elevating flavors.
For Browning (Optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – adds a lovely crisp texture to the beef.
For Thickening (Optional)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour – coats the beef for a hearty, thicker stew.
For Finishing Touches
• 1 cup frozen peas – stir them in for a splash of color and sweetness right before serving.
With these Crockpot Beef Stew ingredients, you’re well on your way to a soulful, homemade meal!
How to Make Crockpot Beef Stew
-
Heat Olive Oil: In a skillet over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper, then brown them in batches for about 3–4 minutes per side until nicely seared.
-
Combine Ingredients: In your crockpot, combine the browned beef (or raw beef if you prefer) with the beef broth, sliced carrots, diced potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and additional salt and pepper.
-
Optional Thickening: If you like a thicker stew, toss the beef cubes in flour before adding them to the crockpot. This will give your stew a delightful richness.
-
Cook: Cover your crockpot and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours. Try to stir occasionally if you can, to ensure even cooking.
-
Add Peas: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas. This will brighten the dish and add a lovely burst of sweetness.
-
Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste your stew and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper as desired.
-
Serve: Serve the stew hot with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Crockpot Beef Stew Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor this hearty stew to your personal taste!
-
Dairy-Free: Swap regular beef broth for vegetable broth and omit any dairy ingredients to keep it creamy and comforting.
-
Vegetable Boost: Add extra veggies like bell peppers or green beans for a colorful, nutrient-rich stew that bursts with flavor!
-
Spicy Kick: Toss in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to wake up your taste buds with a delightful heat.
-
Red Wine: For added depth, stir in a cup of red wine along with the beef broth for a rich, complex flavor profile.
-
Mushroom Medley: Incorporating sliced mushrooms will enhance earthy flavors, making the stew even more satisfying and filling.
-
Coconut Curry Twist: Turn your stew tropical by adding coconut milk and a tablespoon of curry powder for a deliciously exotic flavor combination.
-
Beans for Fiber: Include a can of drained and rinsed beans, such as kidney or black beans, to amp up the protein and make the stew even heartier.
-
Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs—try adding parsley, basil, or oregano to the crockpot for a fragrant, garden-fresh twist!
Make Ahead Options
These Crockpot Beef Stew preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can chop the vegetables (carrots, potatoes, and onion) and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can season and brown the beef, then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before adding it to your crockpot. When you’re ready to cook, simply combine all the ingredients as directed, and let your crockpot do the rest! Remember to stir occasionally for even cooking, and you’ll enjoy that same comforting stew without the last-minute rush—just as delicious and heartwarming as if you made it all in one go!
How to Store and Freeze Crockpot Beef Stew
Room Temperature: Allow the stew to cool completely before storing it; it can sit out for up to 2 hours to avoid bacterial growth.
Fridge: Store Crockpot Beef Stew in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.
Freezer: Freeze the stew in airtight freezer bags or containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm thawed stew on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick, until heated through.
What to Serve with Crockpot Beef Stew?
The aroma of slow-cooked beef and hearty vegetables fills your kitchen, creating the perfect opportunity to complement this comforting dish with delightful sides.
-
Crusty Bread: This is an absolute must! It’s perfect for soaking up the rich broth and adds a satisfying crunch.
-
Buttery Mashed Potatoes: They bring creaminess and a luscious texture, creating a cozy pairing that feels like a warm hug.
-
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their savory, caramelized edges add a wonderful contrast to the stew’s tender ingredients.
-
Green Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing bite that balances the stew’s richness. Think of bright cherry tomatoes and crunchy cucumbers!
-
Cornbread: Sweet and fluffy, cornbread is a delightful addition that complements the hearty flavors beautifully. Slather on some butter for even more indulgence.
-
Red Wine: A glass of full-bodied red wine pairs seamlessly, enhancing the rich flavors of your beef stew while adding a touch of elegance to your meal.
-
Apple Crisp: End on a sweet note with a warm apple crisp. The flavors of spiced apples and a buttery topping create a comforting finish after each hearty bite of stew!
Creating the perfect meal is all about balance, and these suggestions will surely elevate your crockpot beef stew experience to new heights.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best Crockpot Beef Stew, always use a well-marbled cut of beef like chuck for enhanced tenderness and flavor.
- To avoid a bland stew, make sure to season each layer of your ingredients—this means seasoning the beef before browning and adding salt to the vegetables as you layer them in the crockpot.
- If you want a thicker stew, consider dredging the beef in flour before browning it, as this will help thicken the sauce as it cooks.
- Remember that cooking on low for 8 hours allows the flavors to meld beautifully, so plan ahead for a delicious meal.
Crockpot Beef Stew Recipe FAQs
What type of beef is best for this stew?
Absolutely! The best beef for Crockpot Beef Stew is a well-marbled cut like beef chuck. It becomes wonderfully tender during slow cooking, absorbing all the flavorful broth and spices. Avoid lean cuts, as they can turn out tough and chewy after long cooking times.
How long can I store leftover Crockpot Beef Stew in the fridge?
You can store your flavorful stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before refrigerating—this ensures the best taste and safety. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until thoroughly heated through.
Can I freeze Crockpot Beef Stew, and how should I do it?
Very! To freeze, allow your stew to cool completely before packaging. Use airtight freezer bags or containers—remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a bowl of that goodness, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Then, reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much during freezing.
What can I do if my Crockpot Beef Stew turns out too watery?
No worries! If your stew is too thin after cooking, you can thicken it easily. In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup of cold water with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch until smooth. Stir this mixture into the stew and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until thickened. If you’re looking for an alternative method, let the stew simmer uncovered on the stovetop briefly until it reduces to your desired consistency.
Can I make this stew without using beef broth?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter option or have dietary restrictions, you can substitute beef broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly version. It will alter the flavor profile slightly but still maintain the comforting essence of the stew. Alternatively, you can also use chicken broth but keep in mind it might not be as rich.
Is this recipe suitable for dogs?
While some ingredients are dog-friendly, like carrots and peas, be cautious! It’s best to avoid certain ingredients like onions and garlic, which can be harmful to dogs. If you want to share a little stew with your furry friend, simply set aside a portion before seasoning with salt or adding broth and ensure it contains safe ingredients.
Crockpot Beef Stew
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck the key to a tender stew after long, slow cooking
- 4 cups beef broth provides a deep, savory flavor base
- 4 medium carrots slice for natural sweetness and vibrant color
- 4 medium potatoes add creaminess and heartiness
- 1 medium onion sweetness caramelizes beautifully
- 3 cloves garlic for aromatic, comforting flavor
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste adds depth and richness
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce enhances umami taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme complements beef perfectly
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary brings a fragrant earthy note
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil adds a lovely crisp texture
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour coats the beef for a thicker stew
- 1 cup frozen peas stir in before serving for color and sweetness
Method
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil. Season beef cubes with salt and pepper, then brown them in batches for about 3–4 minutes per side.
- In your crockpot, combine the browned beef (or raw beef if preferred) with beef broth, sliced carrots, diced potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and additional salt and pepper.
- If you like a thicker stew, toss the beef cubes in flour before adding to the crockpot.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, stirring occasionally.
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas.
- Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt or pepper.
- Serve the stew hot with crusty bread or over rice.
Leave a Comment