This Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew is warm, hearty, and packed with tender beef and colorful veggies. Just toss everything in the pot, and let it do the work for you!
No chopping and stirring at the stove! I love coming home to the smell of this stew. It’s like a big, cozy hug after a long day. Perfect with crusty bread! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: Choose chuck roast or another tough cut of beef that benefits from slow cooking. If you’re looking for a lighter option, lean cuts like sirloin will work, but they might not be as tender in the long run.
Carrots: These add sweetness. You can replace them with parsnips for a different flavor or use frozen carrots if you’re in a hurry.
Potatoes: I prefer Yukon Gold for creaminess. However, you can use red potatoes; just keep in mind they hold their shape better in stew.
Red Wine: This elevates the stew’s flavor. If you’d prefer to omit it, simply use more beef broth. Some people also like to use a splash of balsamic vinegar or a bit of apple cider vinegar for a little acidity.
Herbs: Thyme and rosemary are classic choices. Feel free to experiment with herbs like Italian seasoning or add bay leaves for additional depth if you have them on hand.
How Do I Get My Beef Stew to Have Rich Flavor?
A key step for flavor is browning the beef before adding it to the slow cooker. This creates a nice crust, adding depth to the stew. Here’s how to get it right:
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, ensuring it’s hot before adding the beef.
- Don’t crowd the pan; brown in batches if necessary for an even sear.
- Add a pinch of salt when browning to enhance flavor. Once browned, sprinkle with flour—this helps thicken the stew.
Finally, let the stew cook undisturbed. Resist the urge to open the lid too often, as it lets heat escape, which can lengthen cooking time. Enjoy the delicious aroma that fills your kitchen!
Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced into 1-inch pieces
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into chunks
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with additional beef broth)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup frozen peas (added near the end)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy beef stew takes about 15 minutes to prep and then cooks in the crock pot for 4 to 8 hours, depending on your setting. If you have time, cooking it on low will give the best flavor and tenderness. Make sure to include about 30 minutes near the end for adding the peas!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Beef:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. In a bowl, toss the beef cubes with flour, salt, and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the beef in batches. Brown each piece on all sides until golden brown. This step builds flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can skip it!
2. Add the Veggies:
Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker. Add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic right on top of the beef.
3. Mixing the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper until well mixed. Pour this mixture over the beef and vegetables in the slow cooker, ensuring everything is covered.
4. Cooking Time:
Add the bay leaves on top, cover the slow cooker, and set it to cook. Choose low for 7 to 8 hours or high for 4 to 5 hours. You want the beef and veggies to be tender.
5. Adding Peas:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, stir in the frozen peas. This will warm them through and bring a lovely color to your stew!
6. Final Touches:
Before serving, remember to remove the bay leaves. Taste the stew and adjust seasoning if needed—add more salt or pepper if you like!
7. Serving the Stew:
Garnish each bowl with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve your warm, comforting beef stew with crusty bread or over rice for a satisfying meal!
Enjoy your delicious homemade beef stew! It’s perfect for cozy nights and tastes even better the next day!
FAQs About Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew
Can I Use Other Cuts of Beef for This Stew?
Absolutely! While beef stew meat is ideal, you can use cuts like chuck roast or brisket. Just remember that tougher cuts benefit from slow cooking, making them incredibly tender.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! To make the stew gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. If using cornstarch, mix it with a bit of cold water before adding it to thicken the stew.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftover stew can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, use the microwave or warm on the stove over low heat. If the stew thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.
Can I Freeze Beef Stew?
Yes! Beef stew freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating for the best quality.
