This hearty Crockpot Beef Stew is pure comfort in a bowl! With tender beef, colorful veggies, and rich broth, it’s like getting a warm hug from your dinner.
I love how easy it is to make—just toss everything in and let the slow cooker do its magic. Plus, your house will smell amazing while it cooks! 🥘
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck: This cut is perfect for stewing because it becomes tender during slow cooking. If you can’t find it, you can substitute with brisket or round steak.
Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and color. If you have parsnips on hand, they can be a great flavorful swap!
Potatoes: Yellow potatoes work well for their creaminess. You could use russet or red potatoes too. Just know that russets will break down more in the stew.
Red Wine: While it enhances the flavor, feel free to use extra beef broth instead. You can also opt for a splash of balsamic vinegar for acidity.
Fresh Herbs: Rosemary and thyme are crucial for flavor. If you don’t have these on hand, look for Italian seasoning as a substitute.
How Do I Make Sure My Beef Stew Is Flavorful?
The secret to a tasty beef stew is in the browning of the meat. This step adds rich, deep flavors. Here’s how to do it right:
- Brown the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet. This helps it brown evenly.
- Don’t rush the process. Let each side cook for about 2-3 minutes before turning.
- Use a good quality beef broth—homemade or store-bought, as it greatly impacts the stew’s flavor.
- Adjust the seasoning towards the end. After cooking, taste and add more salt or pepper if needed.
This way, your crockpot beef stew will be full of rich flavors and a wonderful comfort dish everyone will enjoy!
Comforting Crockpot Beef Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1½-inch cubes
- 3 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 medium yellow potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional, can substitute extra beef broth)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting stew takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll then let it cook in the crockpot—7-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high—making it a perfect meal to set and forget while you go about your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
In a large bowl, toss the beef cubes with flour, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated. This will help thicken the stew later on.
2. Brown the Beef (Optional):
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides for about 2-3 minutes per side. Browning boosts the flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step!
3. Assemble in the Crockpot:
Transfer the browned beef into your crockpot. Next, add the carrots, potatoes, diced onion, and minced garlic. This creates a colorful and hearty base for your stew!
4. Mix the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. This mixture brings all the flavors together.
5. Combine Everything:
Pour the liquid mixture over the beef and vegetables in the crockpot. Toss in the bay leaf and the sprig of rosemary for added flavor.
6. Slow Cook:
Cover your crockpot and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The stew is ready when the beef is tender and vegetables are cooked through.
7. Final Touches:
Once cooked, remove the bay leaf and rosemary sprig. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish your stew with freshly chopped parsley and a small sprig of rosemary. Serve it hot with crusty bread or over buttered noodles for a satisfying meal.
Enjoy your warm, tender, richly flavored crockpot beef stew! Perfect for cozy nights in! 🥘
Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef?
Absolutely! While beef chuck is ideal for stews due to its marbling and tenderness, you can also use brisket or round steak. Just keep in mind that cooking time may vary slightly depending on the cut.
How Do I Thicken the Stew If It’s Too Thin?
If your stew turns out thinner than desired, you can create a slurry by mixing 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with water and stirring it into the stew. Let it cook for an additional 30 minutes to thicken up.
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes! This beef stew freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
What Should I Serve with Beef Stew?
This stew is hearty on its own, but you can serve it with crusty bread for dipping, over mashed potatoes or rice, or alongside a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
