This Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew is perfect for cozy dinners. Just toss in tender beef, veggies, and some savory seasonings, and let the slow cooker do its magic!
I love how the house smells wonderful while it cooks. Plus, it’s so easy—just set it and forget it. Grab a bowl and enjoy a big serving with some crusty bread! 🥖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck: This cut is ideal because it’s flavorful and gets tender through slow cooking. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try sirloin or round, but they may not be as juicy.
Carrots and Potatoes: These veggies add sweetness and heartiness. You can swap in other root vegetables like parsnips or turnips if you like. Frozen veggies can also work if fresh ones aren’t available.
Red Wine: It adds depth to the stew, but you can skip it or use more beef broth instead. If you want an alcohol-free option, feel free to add a splash of balsamic vinegar for some acidity.
Herbs: Thyme and rosemary bring warmth. Fresh herbs enhance the flavor even more if you have them. You can also experiment with Italian seasoning or bay leaves if you want to mix it up!
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Tender Beef in Your Stew?
The key to tender beef is cooking it low and slow. Start by searing the beef in your skillet to lock in those delicious juices—but if you’re short on time, skip this step.
- Make sure to season the beef well with salt and pepper and coat it in flour for a richer taste.
- After browning, transfer it to the crock pot, and add your vegetables.
- Next, pour in your broth mixture and let it cook. Low heat for 7-8 hours is best for melting those tough fibers.
Remember, patience is key, so don’t rush it—hard to beat those delicious homemade smells filling your kitchen!
Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 2 lbs (900g) beef chuck, 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 red wine (optional)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Time Needed to Prepare:
This easy beef stew recipe will take about 20 minutes to prepare, plus 7-8 hours of cooking on low (or 3-4 hours on high). Perfect for a cozy day at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season and Prepare the Beef:
Start by seasoning the beef cubes with salt and pepper. Then, toss them in flour until they are nicely coated. This helps create a rich flavor when cooked!
2. Brown the Beef:
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Your goal is to brown the beef cubes on all sides to enhance the flavor. If you’re really short on time, you can skip this step, but browning is recommended!
3. Transfer to the Crock Pot:
Once browned, transfer the beef to your crock pot. This magic appliance will cook everything slowly and perfectly!
4. Add Veggies:
Next, toss in the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic into the crock pot. This colorful mix will add a ton of flavor and nutrition!
5. Mix the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. This is where the stew gets its yummy taste!
6. Pour and Add Bay Leaves:
Now pour your flavor-packed liquid mixture over the beef and veggies in the crock pot. Don’t forget to add the bay leaves for some extra depth!
7. Cooking Time:
Cover the crock pot and let it do its thing! Cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the beef is tender and the veggies are soft.
8. Final Touches:
Once cooked, remove the bay leaves before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve hot and enjoy this delicious beef stew! It’s perfect with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a truly cozy meal.
FAQ for Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew
Can I Use Different Cuts of Meat?
Absolutely! While beef chuck is ideal for its flavor and tenderness, you can use other cuts like sirloin or round. Just keep in mind that they may not be as juicy, so you might need to adjust cooking time accordingly.
What Can I Substitute for Red Wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, simply replace it with additional beef broth or add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a bit of acidity. This will still give your stew a great flavor without the alcohol.
How to Store Leftover Beef Stew?
Store any leftover beef stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, consider freezing it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes, you can definitely customize your stew! Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, corn, or celery. If using frozen veggies, add them in the last hour of cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.
