This Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew is perfect for warm and cozy dinners! With tender beef, hearty veggies, and a rich broth, it’s a dish that warms the heart.
I love coming home to the smell of this stew filling the air. It truly feels like a big hug after a long day. Just throw everything in the pot and let it do its magic!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: I like using chuck roast for its rich flavor and tenderness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, consider using sirloin. Both will work, but chuck gives a better stew taste.
Vegetables: Carrots and potatoes are classic, but you can mix in parsnips or sweet potatoes if you prefer. For an extra pop of color, add bell peppers or green beans!
Beef Broth: Homemade broth is always the best, but store-bought works too. If you’re low on beef broth, chicken broth can also do the trick, though it will change the flavor slightly.
Herbs and Spices: Fresh herbs can elevate the dish! If you have fresh thyme or rosemary, feel free to use those instead of the dried versions for a more vibrant flavor.
How Do I Get the Beef to Be Tender and Flavorful?
Browning the beef is key to creating depth in flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Brown the meat in batches to get a nice crust.
- Use high heat to sear the beef, then let it rest before adding it to the crock pot. This locks in juices.
- Be patient with the cooking time. Low and slow is the best way to tenderize the meat and let the flavors mix!
Following these tips will help you achieve a rich, delicious stew that your family will love!
How to Make Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious beef stew takes about 30 minutes of prep time, and then you can set it cooking in the crock pot for 7-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high. In total, plan for a cozy dinner about 8 hours later if you’re cooking on low!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Beef:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, pour in the olive oil. Coat the beef cubes in flour seasoned with salt and pepper. Brown the beef in batches, making sure all sides get a nice sear. Once browned, transfer the beef to the crock pot.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant. Then add the tomato paste and stir for another minute before transferring the mixture to the crock pot.
3. Combine All Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add the heart of the stew! To the crock pot, add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and bay leaves. Stir gently to combine everything together.
4. Let It Cook:
Cover the crock pot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until the beef and vegetables are tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
5. Add The Peas:
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the frozen peas for a pop of color and sweetness. Don’t forget to remove the bay leaves before serving!
6. Final Touches:
Give the stew a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. For a sprinkle of freshness, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Enjoy your warm, comforting crock pot beef stew! Perfect for a cozy dinner at home!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! While beef stew meat is ideal, you can also use pork or chicken. If using chicken, opt for thighs for better flavor and tenderness. Just adjust the cooking time to about 4-6 hours on low to avoid overcooking.
How Do I Thicken the Stew?
If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry. Stir it into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Alternatively, mash some of the potatoes once it’s done to naturally thicken it!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the stew the night before, refrigerate it, and then cook it in the morning. Just remember that the flavors will deepen as they sit, making it even tastier!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover beef stew can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. You may want to add a splash of broth to loosen it up during reheating.
