This Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew is a warm hug in a bowl! With tender beef, hearty veggies, and rich broth, it’s perfect for chilly days.
I love how I can just toss everything in the pot and let it simmer. Plus, the smell wafting through the house? Pure magic! 🥰
Serving this stew with some crusty bread makes it even better. It’s like a cozy night in, all thanks to my handy Crock Pot!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: Look for cuts like chuck or round; they become tender during slow cooking. If you’re short on time, pre-cut stew meat can save you some hassle.
Carrots: Fresh carrots add a sweet crunch. If you don’t have any, parsnips or frozen mixed vegetables can work in a pinch!
Potatoes: I prefer russet potatoes for their creaminess. Yukon gold is also excellent. If you’re avoiding carbs, try cauliflower for a healthier alternative.
Red Wine: This adds depth to the stew. If you don’t drink, use more beef broth or grape juice mixed with a splash of vinegar.
Flour: For thickening the stew, all-purpose flour is a go-to, but you can substitute with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour mix if needed.
What’s the Best Way to Brown Beef for Stew?
Browning the beef is key for flavor! This step helps develop a nice crust, creating complex tastes as it cooks. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your skillet is hot, then add the olive oil.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; brown the beef in batches if necessary. This helps achieve that golden color.
- Cook until all sides are browned, about 5-7 minutes.
After browning, transfer to the Crock Pot where the magic happens—slow cooking brings a wonderful tenderness to the beef.
Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 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
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup frozen peas, added near the end
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting beef stew requires about 15 minutes of prep time and then you’ll need to let it cook in the Crock Pot for 7-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. It’s a perfect set-it-and-forget-it meal that fills your home with delicious aromas!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Beef:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and cook until they are brown on all sides, which typically takes about 5-7 minutes. This step adds a lot of flavor, but if you’re pressed for time, you can skip it and add the raw meat directly to the Crock Pot.
2. Adding Veggies:
Once the beef is browned, transfer it to the Crock Pot. Next, add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Give it a little stir to combine the ingredients.
3. Mix the Broth:
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the beef broth, water, tomato paste, red wine (if you’re using it), dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Pour this mixture over the beef and vegetables in the Crock Pot. Toss in the bay leaves too!
4. Time to Cook!
Cover the Crock Pot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You want the beef and vegetables to become nice and tender—trust me, it’s worth the wait!
5. Thicken it Up:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, mix the all-purpose flour with a few tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this slurry into the stew to help thicken the broth. At this time, also add in the frozen peas.
6. Final Touches:
Cover the pot again and let it cook for the remaining 30 minutes. Before serving, remember to take out the bay leaves and taste the stew. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your delicious Crock Pot Beef Stew is now ready to be served! Ladle it into bowls and enjoy hot, perhaps with some crusty bread or over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes for an extra comforting meal.
Enjoy your cozy and delicious Crock Pot Beef Stew!
FAQ About Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew
Can I Use Different Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables. Mushrooms, parsnips, or celery can add great flavors. Just be mindful of the cooking times for sturdier vegetables, as they may need longer to soften.
What Can I Substitute for Beef Stew Meat?
If you can’t find beef stew meat, cuts like chuck roast or brisket work wonderfully, as they are flavorful and tenderize well during slow cooking. For a leaner option, you could also use chicken thighs, although cooking times may vary slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover beef stew can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating to enjoy it again!
Can I Make This Stew Without Wine?
Yes, you can easily skip the wine if desired. Simply replace it with an equal amount of additional beef broth or add a splash of vinegar for acidity to balance the flavors.
