This Slow Cooker Beef Stew is the ultimate dish for cozy evenings. With tender chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich gravy, it brings warmth and joy to any dinner table. Perfect for family gatherings or simple weeknight meals, this recipe makes it easy to enjoy a delicious homemade stew without spending hours in the kitchen. Let your slow cooker do the magic while you relax!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: Simply toss everything into the slow cooker and let it work its magic.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of spices, wine, and broth creates an incredibly flavorful stew that warms your soul.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite veggies or adjust seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
- Ideal for Meal Prep: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week; it reheats beautifully!
- Kid-Friendly Comfort Food: A dish that kids love, making it perfect for family dinners.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes all the difference when making this Slow Cooker Beef Stew. Here are some essential items you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Skillet
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: Allows for even cooking over several hours, resulting in tender beef and flavorful broth.
- Skillet: Perfect for searing meat before adding it to the slow cooker, enhancing flavor through caramelization.
- Cutting board & Knife: Essential for safely chopping vegetables and meat into bite-sized pieces.
Ingredients
This classic beef stew is pure comfort in a bowl. Tender beef, perfectly cooked veggies, and a rich, velvety gravy make it a soul-warming dish for chilly nights. Let your slow cooker do the work for an easy, amazingly flavorful family meal.
- 2 1/2 pounds beef chuck roast (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1/2 teaspoon celery salt
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3-6 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons cold butter (divided)
- 2 cups diced yellow onion
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup dry red wine (like Cabernet or Merlot)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 teaspoons better than bouillon or 2 beef bouillon cubes
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 5 medium carrots (cut into 1-inch chunks)
- 1 pound baby Yukon gold potatoes (halved or quartered)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/4 cup cold water + 3 tablespoons cornstarch (optional for thickening)
- 2-3 drops browning sauce like Gravy Master (optional)
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Cut beef into 1-inch cubes, discarding any large fat pieces. Season with black pepper, garlic salt, and celery salt. Toss with flour to coat evenly.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Working in batches:
* Sear beef cubes for 45 seconds per side until browned.
* Transfer to the slow cooker once browned.
Step 3: Cook the Onions and Garlic
Reduce heat to medium in the skillet:
* Melt 1 tablespoon of butter.
* Cook diced onions for about 5 minutes until soft.
* Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
* Deglaze the pan with a splash of wine, scraping up any browned bits before transferring everything to the slow cooker.
Step 4: Combine All Ingredients
Add remaining ingredients (except peas, cornstarch slurry, and remaining butter) to the slow cooker. Cook:
* On low for 7 1/2 – 8 hours or high for 3 1/2 – 4 hours.
Step 5: Finish with Peas
In the last 15 minutes of cooking:
* Stir in frozen peas.
* Remove bay leaves and rosemary stem.
Step 6: Thicken Gravy (Optional)
To create a thicker gravy:
* Mix cold water with cornstarch in a small bowl.
* Slowly whisk this mixture into the stew until well combined.
Step 7: Add Butter & Serve
Turn off heat:
* Swirl in remaining 2 tablespoons of cold butter until melted.
* Add browning sauce if desired.
Serve warm over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or with crusty bread for a complete meal!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Serving Slow Cooker Beef Stew is all about enhancing its comforting flavors while providing options for everyone at the table. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this hearty dish.
Over Mashed Potatoes
- Creamy mashed potatoes provide a rich base that absorbs the savory gravy, making each bite incredibly satisfying.
With Crusty Bread
- A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the stew, adding a crunchy texture to the meal.
Over Egg Noodles
- Serving the stew over egg noodles offers a nice contrast to the tender beef and vegetables, creating a complete meal in one bowl.
With Rice
- Fluffy rice can soak up the delicious broth, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer grains with their stew.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Garnishing your stew with fresh parsley or thyme brightens up the dish and adds a pop of color and flavor.
Alongside a Side Salad
- A light side salad can complement the rich flavors of the beef stew, offering freshness and crunch that balances the meal.
How to Perfect Slow Cooker Beef Stew
To achieve an amazing Slow Cooker Beef Stew, there are a few key practices to keep in mind. These tips will help you elevate your dish every time.
- Choose quality beef: Select well-marbled beef chuck roast for maximum tenderness and flavor.
- Brown the meat: Searing the beef before adding it to the slow cooker enhances its richness and deepens the overall flavor.
- Layer ingredients wisely: Place sturdier vegetables like potatoes on the bottom and more delicate ones like peas on top to ensure even cooking.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste your stew towards the end of cooking and adjust seasonings as needed for a personalized touch.
- Use homemade stock: If possible, use homemade beef broth for an extra depth of flavor that store-bought versions may lack.
- Let it rest: Allowing your stew to sit for a few minutes after cooking lets flavors meld together beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Pairing side dishes with Slow Cooker Beef Stew can enhance your dining experience. Here are some fantastic options that complement its rich flavors:
-
Garlic Bread
Perfectly toasted garlic bread adds a crunchy element and is great for soaking up leftover gravy. -
Steamed Green Beans
Fresh green beans provide a crisp contrast and vibrant color alongside your hearty stew. -
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
These slightly caramelized sprouts add a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with beef stew. -
Cauliflower Mash
A lighter alternative to mashed potatoes, cauliflower mash offers creaminess without all the carbs. -
Coleslaw
The crunch of coleslaw complements the softness of the stew while adding a refreshing tanginess. -
Cornbread
Sweet cornbread served warm is perfect for rounding out this comfort food meal with its moist texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using a slow cooker can be easy, but it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls for the best Slow Cooker Beef Stew.
- Skipping the browning step: Browning the beef enhances flavor. Always sear the meat before adding it to the slow cooker for a richer taste.
- Overcrowding the slow cooker: Filling the pot too full can prevent even cooking. Stick to recommended amounts for optimal results.
- Not using enough liquid: A lack of broth or wine can lead to dry stew. Ensure you have sufficient liquid to keep everything moist and flavorful.
- Ignoring vegetable cut sizes: Cutting veggies unevenly affects cooking time. Aim for uniform pieces to ensure everything cooks properly.
- Opening the lid too often: Each time you lift the lid, heat escapes, lengthening cooking time. Resist the urge until it’s time to serve.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Let the stew cool completely before sealing it in containers.
Freezing Slow Cooker Beef Stew
- Freeze in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months.
- Label with date and contents for easy identification later.
Reheating Slow Cooker Beef Stew
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the stew in an oven-safe dish. Heat for about 30-40 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power for 3-5 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly (about 10-15 minutes).
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about making Slow Cooker Beef Stew.
Can I use other cuts of beef?
Yes, while chuck roast is ideal, you can use other cuts like brisket or round. Just ensure they are well-marbled for tenderness.
How do I make my Slow Cooker Beef Stew thicker?
For a thicker gravy, mix cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the stew during the last few minutes of cooking.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your stew with vegetables like parsnips, turnips, or green beans based on your preference.
Is it possible to cook this on high heat?
Yes, cooking on high will reduce cooking time. Your stew will be ready in about 3½-4 hours instead of 7½-8 hours on low.
What should I serve with Slow Cooker Beef Stew?
This hearty stew pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or egg noodles for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Beef Stew is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Try this recipe tonight; it’s perfect for family dinners and chilly nights!
Slow Cooker Beef Stew
- Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
This Slow Cooker Beef Stew is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings and family gatherings. Tender chunks of beef simmered with hearty vegetables in a rich gravy create a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Simply toss your ingredients into the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you unwind. This savory stew is not only delicious but also customizable, allowing you to add your favorite veggies or adjust the spices to suit your taste. Enjoy it over creamy mashed potatoes, alongside crusty bread, or with egg noodles for a complete meal that warms the soul.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 pounds beef chuck roast
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup dry red wine
- 5 medium carrots
- 1 pound baby Yukon gold potatoes
- 2 cups diced yellow onion
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1/2 teaspoon celery salt
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3–6 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons cold butter
- 2 teaspoons better than bouillon or 2 beef bouillon cubes
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/4 cup cold water + 3 tablespoons cornstarch (optional for thickening)
- 2–3 drops browning sauce like Gravy Master (optional)
Instructions
- Cut beef into 1-inch cubes; season with black pepper, garlic salt, and celery salt. Toss with flour.
- Sear beef in olive oil until browned on all sides. Transfer to the slow cooker.
- In the same skillet, cook onions and garlic until soft; deglaze with wine and add to the slow cooker.
- Add remaining ingredients (except peas) to the slow cooker; cook on low for 7 1/2 – 8 hours or high for 3 1/2 – 4 hours.
- Stir in peas during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
- Serve warm over desired accompaniments.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
