ULTIMATE COMFORT BEEF STEW

I can almost smell it now – the comforting aroma of slow-cooked beef mingling with earthy vegetables, filling the house with warmth on a chilly autumn evening. My grandma used to make the most incredible beef stew, and while I could never quite replicate hers perfectly, I’ve come pretty darn close with my own version of Crock Pot Beef Stew. It’s become a family favorite, and I’m so excited to share my secrets with you today, so you can create a hearty, flavorful meal with minimal effort. Today, I’m sharing all my secrets for the most amazing Crock Pot Beef Stew you’ll ever make!

The Magic of Crock Pot Beef Stew: A Step-by-Step Guide

There’s something truly special about a dish that practically cooks itself. Crock Pot Beef Stew is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. The long, slow cooking process tenderizes the beef to melt-in-your-mouth perfection and allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Let’s dive into how to make this incredible dish!

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• Beef: 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes. (I prefer chuck because it becomes incredibly tender during slow cooking, but stew meat works well too.)
• Vegetables:
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 carrots, peeled and chopped
  • 3 celery stalks, chopped
  • 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed (Russet or Yukon Gold are great)
  • 1 cup frozen peas (added in the last 30 minutes)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Liquid:
  • 4 cups beef broth (low sodium is best so you can control the salt)
  • 1 cup dry red wine (optional, but adds a wonderful depth of flavor – I use Cabernet Sauvignon)
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• Seasonings:
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For thickening (optional):
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons cold water

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beef: Pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a good sear.
2. Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef in batches, browning on all sides. Don’t overcrowd the pan; this will steam the beef instead of searing it. You want a nice, rich brown crust on each piece. This step adds so much flavor!
3. Add Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the seared beef in the skillet and toss to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the flour is lightly browned. This creates a roux that will help thicken the stew.
4. Transfer to Crock Pot: Transfer the seared beef and flour mixture to your crock pot.
5. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté over medium heat until softened, about 5-7 minutes. The onions should be translucent and fragrant.
6. Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
7. Deglaze the Pan (Optional): If using red wine, pour it into the skillet and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds a ton of flavor to the stew.
8. Add to Crock Pot: Pour the sautéed vegetables and any wine reduction into the crock pot with the beef.
9. Add Remaining Ingredients: Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, potatoes, thyme, rosemary, smoked paprika, and bay leaf to the crock pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Stir Well: Stir everything together to ensure the ingredients are well combined.
11. Cook on Low: Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The beef should be fork-tender and the vegetables should be soft.
12. Add Peas: During the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen peas.
13. Thicken (Optional): If you prefer a thicker stew, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl to form a slurry. Stir the slurry into the crock pot during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
14. Remove Bay Leaf: Before serving, remove the bay leaf.
15. Serve and Enjoy: Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream, if desired. I love serving it with crusty bread for dipping!

Crock Pot Beef Stew Success Tips

• Don’t Skip the Searing: Searing the beef is crucial for developing a rich, deep flavor. It creates a beautiful crust that adds so much to the final dish.
• Use Quality Beef Broth: The quality of your beef broth will directly impact the flavor of your stew. Opt for a low-sodium broth so you can control the saltiness.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste the stew during the last hour of cooking and adjust the seasonings as needed. A little extra salt, pepper, or thyme can make a big difference.
• Low and Slow is Key: The longer the stew cooks on low heat, the more tender the beef will become and the more the flavors will meld together.
• Thicken to Your Preference: If you prefer a thicker stew, use the cornstarch slurry. If you like it thinner, skip this step altogether.

Variations and Additions:

One of the best things about Crock Pot Beef Stew is how versatile it is! Feel free to customize it to your liking. Here are a few ideas:

• Add Different Vegetables: Try adding turnips, parsnips, or sweet potatoes for a unique flavor.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Add Mushrooms: Sauté some sliced mushrooms with the onions, carrots, and celery for an earthy flavor.
• Use Different Herbs: Try adding bay leaf, fresh parsley, or fresh thyme for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Crock Pot Beef Stew is delicious on its own, but here are a few ideas to elevate your meal:

• Serve with crusty bread for dipping into the flavorful broth.
• Top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added richness.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
• Pair it with a simple side salad for a complete and balanced meal.

Crock Pot Beef Stew: A Recipe for Any Occasion

Crock Pot Beef Stew isn’t just for cold weather! It’s a fantastic meal any time of year. It’s perfect for:

• Weeknight Dinners: Prep it in the morning, and come home to a warm, comforting meal.
• Weekend Gatherings: It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and serve.
• Potlucks: Bring a crock pot full of beef stew to your next potluck and watch it disappear.
• Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.

Speaking of easy weeknight dinners, you might also want to check out my recipe for Sloppy Joes. It’s another family favorite that’s perfect for busy evenings!

Other Slow Cooker Delights

If you’re a fan of slow cooker recipes like me, you’ll definitely want to explore some other delicious options. For instance, my Beef and Noodles recipe is a classic comfort food that’s incredibly easy to make in the slow cooker. The noodles soak up all the rich, savory flavors of the beef broth, creating a truly satisfying meal. And if you’re looking for a hearty side dish, my Steak & Cheddar Potato Casserole is a must-try. It’s loaded with tender steak, creamy potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese – the ultimate comfort food combination!

For a zesty and flavorful option, you can try my Mexican Birria Crockpot Recipe. The slow cooking process makes the beef incredibly tender and infused with rich, spicy flavors. It’s perfect for tacos, quesadillas, or even just served with a side of rice and beans. And don’t forget about my Potato Soup recipe! It is so easy to make in the crockpot and the soup is creamy and flavorful.

And for a quick and easy appetizer, you might like Garlic Butter Beef Bites. These bite-sized pieces of beef are cooked in a flavorful garlic butter sauce, making them perfect for parties or as a snack.

Make-Ahead and Freezing Instructions

Crock Pot Beef Stew is a fantastic make-ahead meal. You can prepare the stew up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will actually meld together even more, making it even tastier! To reheat, simply warm it up in the crock pot on low or in a pot on the stovetop.

It also freezes beautifully! Let the stew cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Reheat as described above.

A Few Extra Tips For the Perfect Stew

Don’t be afraid to experiment with the vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Root vegetables like parsnips and turnips add a wonderful sweetness, while mushrooms provide an earthy flavor.

Add a touch of acidity: A splash of balsamic vinegar or Worcestershire sauce can brighten the flavors of the stew and add a layer of complexity.

Let it rest: After cooking, let the stew sit for about 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together even further and the stew to thicken slightly.

Conclusion

I truly hope you enjoy this Crock Pot Beef Stew recipe as much as my family and I do. It’s a simple, comforting, and incredibly flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, dust off your crock pot, and get ready to create a meal that will warm your heart and soul. Happy cooking!

Ultimate Comfort Beef Stew

Amelia

This Crock Pot Beef Stew is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. The long, slow cooking process tenderizes the beef to melt-in-your-mouth perfection and allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a hearty and flavorful meal with minimal effort.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 7 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Total Time 7 hours hrs 55 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Crock Pot or Slow Cooker
• Large skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Paper towels
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Small Bowl (for cornstarch slurry, if using)
• Whisk (for cornstarch slurry, if using)
• Ladle (for serving)

Ingredients

  

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup dry red wine optional
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch optional
• 2 tablespoons cold water optional
• Fresh parsley or sour cream for garnish optional

Instructions

 

• Pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels.
• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Sear the beef in batches, browning on all sides. Do not overcrowd the pan.
• Sprinkle the flour over the seared beef in the skillet and toss to coat.
• Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the flour is lightly browned.
• Transfer the seared beef and flour mixture to your crock pot.
• In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery.
• Sauté over medium heat until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
• Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute until fragrant.
• If using red wine, pour it into the skillet and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
• Pour the sautéed vegetables and any wine reduction into the crock pot with the beef.
• Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, potatoes, thyme, rosemary, smoked paprika, and bay leaf to the crock pot.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Stir everything together to ensure the ingredients are well combined.
• Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The beef should be fork-tender and the vegetables should be soft.
• During the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen peas.
• If you prefer a thicker stew, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl to form a slurry.
• Stir the slurry into the crock pot during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
• Before serving, remove the bay leaf.
• Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream, if desired. Serve with crusty bread for dipping.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use bone-in beef chuck. Browning the beef is crucial for developing a deep, savory flavor. If you don’t have red wine, you can substitute with beef broth or a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar. To store leftovers, let the stew cool completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before reheating. For added depth of flavor, add a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce during the last hour of cooking.