Slow Cooker Beef Stew is a warm, hearty dish that's perfect for cold weather. Made with tender beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions, it’s a complete meal in one pot. The slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich, savory broth that’s satisfying and comforting. Easy to prepare, this stew requires minimal hands-on time, making it perfect for busy days. Simply add the ingredients to your slow cooker in the morning, and by evening, you'll have a delicious, filling meal ready to serve. Pair it with crusty bread for the ultimate comfort experience.
Slow Cooker Beef Stew is the perfect dish to warm you up on chilly days. This classic comfort food is made easy with a slow cooker, allowing you to enjoy tender beef and hearty vegetables without much effort. Simply set it up in the morning, and by dinner time, you’ll have a delicious, flavorful stew ready to enjoy.
INGREDIENTS
- 2 lbs beef stew meat
- 4 potatoes, cubed
- 3 carrots, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- Salt, pepper, and thyme to taste
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Prepare Ingredients: Add the beef, potatoes, carrots, onion, beef broth, and tomato paste to the slow cooker.
- Step 2:
- Season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Step 3:
- Slow Cook: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 8 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the beef to become tender.
- Step 4:
- Finish and Serve: After 8 hours, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve the stew hot, perfect for a cozy evening meal!
Serving and Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warm.
- This stew also freezes well. Freeze in individual portions for easy, hearty meals anytime.
Helpful Notes
- For a thicker stew, add a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch mixed with water to the broth before serving.
- Use beef stew meat that has some marbling for the best flavor and tenderness.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- For an even richer flavor, sear the beef cubes in a hot pan before adding them to the slow cooker. This adds depth to the stew.
A Classic Comfort Food Made Easy
There’s nothing quite like a bowl of warm, hearty beef stew on a cold day. This recipe makes it easy to enjoy the classic flavors of tender beef, rich broth, and flavorful vegetables without spending hours in the kitchen. Simply let the slow cooker do the work, and you’ll be rewarded with a delicious, comforting meal.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables in this stew?
Yes, feel free to add or substitute vegetables like peas, green beans, or parsnips. They will add extra flavor and texture.
What can I serve with this stew?
A slice of crusty bread or a side salad pairs perfectly with beef stew. You can also serve it over rice or mashed potatoes for a more filling meal.
How can I make this stew gluten-free?
Ensure your beef broth and tomato paste are gluten-free, and use cornstarch instead of flour for thickening if needed.
Can I cook this on high heat instead of low?
Yes, you can cook the stew on high for 4-5 hours, but cooking on low for 8 hours will yield more tender, flavorful results.
Summary
This Slow Cooker Beef Stew is a simple and hearty meal perfect for the colder months. With tender chunks of beef, soft vegetables, and a rich, savory broth, it’s the ultimate comfort food. The ease of using a slow cooker means you can set it up in the morning and come home to a warm, delicious dinner that’s ready to eat. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.