This hearty beef stew is perfect for cozy nights! Tender beef, colorful veggies, and fluffy dumplings come together in your slow cooker for an easy and warm meal.
I love how the stew simmers all day, filling the house with delicious smells. Serve it with a big spoon and prepare for happy tummies all around! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck: This cut is perfect for stewing as it becomes tender during slow cooking. If you’re looking for a leaner option, consider using brisket or round steak, but keep in mind they may not be as flavorful.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds richness when browning the meat. If you need a substitution, any cooking oil like canola or vegetable oil will work just fine.
Red Wine: This adds depth to the stew’s flavor. If you prefer to skip it, just use more beef broth. A splash of vinegar or juice can also provide acidity without wine.
Vegetables: The classic stew veggies are carrots, celery, and potatoes. Feel free to mix it up! Parsnips, turnips, or mushrooms can add unique flavors and textures.
Dumpling Ingredients: If you want a gluten-free alternative, you can use a gluten-free flour mix for the dumplings. Just check the baking powder to ensure it’s also gluten-free!
How Do I Make the Perfect Dumplings?
Making dumplings is simple if you keep a few tips in mind. These light and fluffy dumplings should sit atop the stew for cooking, giving them that perfect soft texture.
- Mix up the dry ingredients first to ensure they’re evenly distributed before adding the butter.
- Remember, don’t over mix the dumpling dough! Stir gently until just combined. It should be a bit sticky.
- For even cooking, drop the dumplings evenly spaced over the stew, and make sure to cover them while cooking.
- Check for doneness by cutting one in half; it should be cooked through and fluffy!
Why is Browning the Beef Important?
Browning the beef can enhance the flavor of the stew significantly! It creates a lovely crust that adds depth to the overall taste. Follow these steps for best results:
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the beef — you’ll want it sizzling!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches to ensure even browning.
- Let it sit for a minute before flipping to allow a good sear to form.
With these tips and insights, your Slow Cooker Beef Stew with Dumplings will turn out delicious every time! Enjoy your comforting meal!
Slow Cooker Beef Stew with Dumplings
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Stew:
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour, divided
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional, can replace with more beef broth)
- 3 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 3 stalks celery, sliced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tsp dried thyme or 3 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary or 1 sprig fresh rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Dumplings:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 20 minutes of prep time and 7-8 hours on LOW or 4-5 hours on HIGH for cooking. Remember to add the dumplings 30 minutes before the stew is done. It’s a great set-and-forget meal for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
Begin by patting the beef cubes dry with paper towels. Season them generously with salt, pepper, and 2 tablespoons of flour. Toss to coat the beef evenly with the flour.
2. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the beef cubes in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Brown all sides for about 3-4 minutes per batch. Once browned, transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
3. Sauté Onion and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute. Transfer the onion and garlic mixture to the slow cooker.
4. Deglaze the Skillet:
Pour in red wine (if using) and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce the wine, then pour the mixture into the slow cooker.
5. Add Remaining Stew Ingredients:
Now, add the beef broth, carrots, celery, potatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, and the remaining tablespoon of flour. Season with additional salt and pepper, then stir gently to combine everything.
6. Cook the Stew:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 7-8 hours or on HIGH for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
7. Make the Dumplings:
About 30 minutes before serving, prepare the dumplings. In a bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, salt, and parsley (if using). Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gently stir in the milk until just combined into a sticky dough.
8. Add Dumplings to Stew:
Drop spoonfuls (around 8 dumplings) of the dough evenly over the surface of the stew. Cover and continue cooking on HIGH for 20-30 minutes, until the dumplings are puffed up and cooked through.
9. Finish and Serve:
Once the dumplings are done, remove the bay leaf and thyme/rosemary stems. Stir in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Garnish and Enjoy:
Serve the stew and dumplings in bowls, garnishing with fresh parsley. Enjoy the heartwarming meal with your family or friends!
This slow cooker beef stew combines tender beef and savory vegetables in a rich broth topped with soft, fluffy dumplings — perfect for cozy evenings! Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef?
Absolutely! While beef chuck is ideal for stews due to its flavor and tenderness, you can also use brisket or round steak. Just keep in mind that it may require a bit more cooking time to become tender.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the stew ingredients the night before and store them in the refrigerator. Just assemble everything in the slow cooker in the morning and set it to cook. The dumplings can be prepared just before serving.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a pot on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in intervals until heated through.
What Can I Substitute for Red Wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, you can replace it with additional beef broth or grape juice. Adding a splash of vinegar or lemon juice can also mimic the acidity that wine provides.