This Slow Cooker Beef Stew is super cozy and packed with tender meat and colorful veggies. Just pop everything in the slow cooker, and let it do its magic!
I’m always amazed at how easy it is to whip up a hearty meal like this. Plus, the smell wafting through the house is a bonus! Perfect for chilly days. 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: Look for chuck roast; it becomes tender after slow cooking. If you’re looking for a leaner option, sirloin works well too.
Vegetables: Carrots and potatoes are classic, but you can add parsnips or sweet potatoes for a twist. For a lighter option, consider zucchini or green beans.
Beef Broth: Homemade broth is awesome, but low-sodium store-bought is fine. For a different flavor, use chicken broth or vegetable broth to keep it lighter.
Herbs: Thyme and rosemary are great, but you can use Italian seasoning if you’re short on fresh herbs. If you don’t like rosemary, just skip it—it won’t ruin the stew!
Tomato Paste: This adds depth, but if you don’t have it, a bit of diced tomatoes or even ketchup can work as a substitute.
How Do I Brown the Beef for Stew Properly?
Browning the beef is key for flavor! Start by heating oil in your skillet until it shimmers. Don’t overcrowd the pan; brown in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side. It’s about developing a nice crust!
- Keep the heat medium-high to get that lovely sear.
- After browning, transfer the beef to the slow cooker to lock in all those tasty juices.
What’s the Best Way to Layer Ingredients in a Slow Cooker?
Layering helps flavors meld perfectly. Place your meat at the bottom for even cooking. Then add the hard veggies like carrots and potatoes, followed by any soft ingredients like peas.
- This way, the root veggies cook well while still keeping peas bright and healthy.
- Mixing everything helps distribute flavors, but don’t stir until the end!
How Can I Adjust the Thickness of My Stew?
If you want a thicker stew, try these tips:
- Add a little cornstarch mixed with water about 30 minutes before serving.
- If you prefer a brothier stew, add extra beef broth or just a bit of water.
- For a low-carb option, consider adding pureed cauliflower as a thickener.
Enjoy making your Slow Cooker Beef Stew! It’s easy, rewarding, and perfect for sharing with loved ones.
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Stew with Vegetables
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Stew:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and cut into chunks or baby carrots
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves)
- 1 tsp dried rosemary (optional)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Crusty bread, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Slow Cooker Beef Stew takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then requires 7-8 hours of cooking on low or 3-4 hours on high in the slow cooker. Great for a cozy day at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Beef:
Start by seasoning the beef cubes with salt and pepper. Lightly toss the meat in flour to coat evenly. This helps to thicken the stew later!
2. Browning the Beef:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes in batches for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Once browned, transfer the beef to the slow cooker. Don’t skip this step; it adds amazing flavor!
3. Sautéing Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for an additional minute. This will enhance the flavor base for your stew.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic mixture to the slow cooker with the beef. Then add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, optional rosemary, bay leaves, carrots, and potatoes. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together.
5. Cook Slowly:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The beef should become tender, and the vegetables should be cooked through. Patience is key here!
6. Adding Peas:
About 15-30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the frozen peas. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed and cook until the peas are warmed through.
7. Serve:
Before serving, remember to remove the bay leaves! Ladle the hearty beef stew into bowls, garnishing with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm, ideally with some crusty bread on the side to soak up that delicious broth.
Enjoy your warm, comforting Slow Cooker Beef Stew loaded with hearty vegetables! It’s a perfect meal for family gatherings or a cozy night in.
Can I Use Different Vegetables in My Stew?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite root vegetables like parsnips or turnips. You can also add green beans or even corn for a pop of color. Just keep cook times in mind for harder veggies!
How Do I Store Leftover Beef Stew?
Store leftover beef stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating!
Can I Use Leaner Cuts of Beef?
Yes, you can use leaner cuts like sirloin, but keep in mind that they may not be as tender after cooking. If you prefer lean beef, consider cooking it for a shorter time or adding a bit more broth to maintain juiciness.
How Do I Thicken My Beef Stew?
If you want a thicker stew, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with a little cold water and stir it into the stew about 30 minutes before serving. Alternatively, you can mash some of the potatoes directly in the stew to thicken it naturally!
