This easy crock pot beef stew is perfect for cozy dinners! With tender beef, hearty potatoes, and colorful veggies, it’s a warm hug in a bowl.
It’s so simple; just throw everything in the pot and let it do its magic. I love coming home to that delicious smell! Perfect for lazy days! 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: I suggest using chuck roast or round cut for a tender stew. If you’re looking for a leaner option, sirloin works as well, just remember it might be less tender after cooking.
Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness, but you can use baby carrots or even parsnips for a different flavor. Just adjust cooking time if they are thicker!
Potatoes: I love using Yukon Gold for their creamy texture. If you’re after fewer carbs, swap them for turnips or cauliflower. Just cut them smaller for the best results.
Beef Broth: Homemade is great, but store-bought works just fine! For a lighter option, you can use vegetable broth. It will change the flavor a bit, but still delicious!
Seasonings: Thyme and rosemary are classic, but feel free to add a bay leaf or some parsley for extra flavor. Fresh herbs add a nice touch if you have them!
How Do I Make Sure My Beef Stew is Tender?
To get that tender beef, the browning step is key. It adds flavors that make your stew delicious. Here’s how to do it right:
- Coat your beef with flour, seasoned with salt and pepper.
- Heat oil in a skillet; don’t rush this step! A few minutes of browning really enhances the flavor.
- Brown the beef in batches; overcrowding the pan makes steaming instead of browning.
- Ensure your crock pot is on low for the long cook time, so the beef breaks down nicely.
Patience is important here—allow those hours for the beef to tenderize. It’s worth the wait for that cozy stew!
Easy Crock Pot 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 diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy crock pot beef stew will take about 15-20 minutes to prep and then 7-8 hours to cook on low (or 3-4 hours on high). So, you can set it in the morning and come home to a warm and delicious dinner waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
Start by tossing the beef cubes in a large bowl with flour, salt, and pepper. Make sure each piece is evenly coated—this helps thicken the stew and adds delicious flavor!
2. Brown the Beef:
In a skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Once it’s hot, brown the beef in batches for about 3-4 minutes on each side until it’s nicely seared. This step locks in flavors! Once browned, transfer the beef to the crock pot.
3. Add the Vegetables:
In the crock pot, add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic. It’s colorful and packed with nutrients!
4. Mix in the Flavors:
Now, stir in the tomato paste, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and bay leaves. These will make your stew aromatic and delicious.
5. Pour in the Broth:
Carefully pour the beef broth over all the ingredients in the crock pot. Make sure everything is covered so all flavors can blend perfectly during cooking!
6. Cook the Stew:
Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer it cooks, the more tender the beef will be!
7. Add Peas Before Serving:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, mix in the frozen peas (if using). They add a nice touch of color and sweetness!
8. Final Touches:
Once done, remove the bay leaves. Taste your stew and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Serve it hot and enjoy your cozy dinner!
This hearty and delicious stew is perfect for cooler evenings and is sure to warm your heart and home! 🍽️
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Absolutely! While beef chuck is ideal for stew, you can also use round cuts or even brisket. Just ensure that whatever cut you choose has some marbling for tenderness, as lean cuts may become tough during long cooking.
Can I Substitute the Vegetables?
Yes! This recipe is versatile. You can swap in root vegetables like parsnips or turnips, or even add mushrooms for extra flavor. Just be mindful of cooking times, as denser veggies might need a bit more time to soften.
How to Store Leftover Beef Stew?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! To make it gluten-free, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for thickening. Just add it into the stew during the last hour of cooking to thicken it up!
Feel free to tweak this FAQ as needed or ask for more questions!
