This Easy Slow Cooker Beef Stew is perfect for those chilly nights. Tender beef, potatoes, and carrots simmer together, making a warm and hearty meal. Just set it and forget it!
I love coming home to the smell of this stew! It’s like a big, comforting hug in a bowl. Pair it with some bread, and you’ve got dinner sorted with zero fuss! 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: I like using chuck roast for its flavor and tenderness when cooked slowly. If you need a leaner option, consider sirloin or round cuts. Both work well, just keep in mind they might be a bit less juicy.
Red Wine: Wine adds depth to the flavor of the stew, but if you don’t want to use it, simply replace it with an extra cup of beef broth. You can also use grape juice as a non-alcoholic substitute that adds a hint of sweetness.
Vegetables: Carrots and potatoes are classic choices, but feel free to swap in parsnips or sweet potatoes if you prefer. You can also add celery or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
Herbs: Dried thyme and rosemary are great, but fresh herbs can enhance the flavor even more. If you have fresh thyme or rosemary on hand, use about three times the amount as what’s called for in the recipe.
How Can I Ensure My Beef Is Perfectly Tender?
Getting your beef tender takes a bit of patience, but it’s worth it! Browning the beef first caramelizes the outside, adding flavor. Then, the key is to let it cook on low heat for a long time.
- Brown the beef in batches to avoid steaming. Only cook until golden.
- Keep the slow cooker on low. This setting helps break down the connective tissue for tenderness.
- Don’t rush the cooking! Let it simmer for at least 7-8 hours on low for the best results.
Guess what? If you’re pressed for time, cooking it on high for 4-5 hours works too. Just make sure to check for tenderness before serving!
Easy Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe for Cozy Dinners
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 cut into chunks
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with extra beef broth)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting beef stew requires about 20 minutes of prep time. Then, you’ll let it cook in the slow cooker for either 7-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high. It’s perfect for a cozy, worry-free dinner after a long day! Just set it and let the slow cooker do its magic.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Start by seasoning the beef cubes with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Brown the beef in batches, making sure all sides are nicely seared for extra flavor. Once browned, transfer the beef to your slow cooker.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for one more minute to combine the flavors.
3. Deglaze the Pan:
If you’re using red wine, pour it into the skillet to deglaze the pan, scraping up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly, then transfer this mixture to the slow cooker with the beef.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
In your slow cooker, add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, carrots, and potatoes. Give everything a good stir to combine all the ingredients.
5. Slow Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef and vegetables are tender and flavors are melded together.
6. Thicken the Stew:
About 30 minutes before serving, mix the all-purpose flour with a little cold water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the stew to thicken the broth. Continue cooking uncovered on high to allow the stew to thicken nicely.
7. Final Touches:
Remove the bay leaves after cooking is complete. Taste the stew and adjust the seasonings with salt and pepper as needed.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish the stew with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy it hot, ideally with crusty bread or over creamy mashed potatoes for a delightful, cozy dinner experience!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Easy Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Recipe?
It’s best to thaw the beef first for even cooking. If you’re pressed for time, you can use frozen beef; just add an extra hour to the cooking time on low or 30 minutes on high. Make sure the beef reaches a safe internal temperature of at least 145°F once cooked.
Can I Make This Beef Stew Without Wine?
Absolutely! If you prefer not to use wine, simply replace it with an extra cup of beef broth. This will still give you a rich and delicious flavor without the alcohol.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover beef stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring it to the freezer!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to include other veggies such as celery, parsnips, or even green beans. Just cut them into similar sizes as the other vegetables to ensure even cooking. Each addition can bring a new flavor to your stew!
