Crockpot Beef Stew Recipe: A Hearty and Comforting Meal

When the weather gets chilly, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Crockpot Beef Stew to bring comfort to your day. This classic recipe is the perfect blend of tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth that will warm you from the inside out.

With the help of a slow cooker, you can enjoy a homemade meal that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re serving it to your family or meal prepping for the week, this beef stew is guaranteed to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Beef Stew Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing you to focus on other tasks while dinner cooks itself.
• Rich Flavor: Searing the beef and adding layers of seasoning create a deep, savory broth.
• Perfectly Tender Meat: Slow cooking ensures the beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender.
• Complete Meal in One Pot: With meat, potatoes, and vegetables, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.

Ingredients for Crockpot Beef Stew

Here’s a detailed look at everything you’ll need for this hearty recipe:

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
Beef stew meat	3 pounds	Cut into 1-inch pieces for even cooking.
Kosher salt	2 teaspoons, divided	Enhances the overall flavor.
Ground black pepper	2 teaspoons, divided	Adds a touch of spice.
Olive oil	3 tablespoons	For searing the beef.
Beef bone broth	4 cups	Provides a rich, savory base for the stew.
Tomato paste	2 tablespoons	Adds depth and umami flavor.
Worcestershire sauce	1 tablespoon	Boosts the savory profile.
Balsamic vinegar	½ tablespoon	Balances the richness with subtle acidity.
Minced garlic	5 teaspoons	For aromatic flavor.
Dried thyme	1 teaspoon	Adds a fragrant, earthy note.
Yellow onion	1 large, diced	Forms the base of the stew’s flavor.
Carrots	6 medium, sliced	Adds natural sweetness and texture.
Yukon Gold potatoes	2 pounds, diced	Hold their shape and absorb the flavorful broth.
All-purpose flour	¼ cup	Helps thicken the broth.
Frozen peas	12 ounces (1 package)	Add color and sweetness.
Fresh thyme	Optional, for garnish	Adds a touch of freshness.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Crockpot Beef Stew

1. Prepare the Beef

• Season the beef with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of black pepper.
• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Sear the beef in batches, cooking for about 5 minutes per batch until browned. This step locks in flavor.
• Transfer the seared beef to the slow cooker.

2. Build the Flavor Base

• Pour the beef bone broth into the slow cooker.
• Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, and dried thyme.

3. Add the Vegetables

• Layer the diced onion, carrots, and Yukon Gold potatoes over the beef.

4. Combine and Cook

• Cover the slow cooker and set it to LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 4 hours.
• Stir occasionally if possible, but the slow cooker will do most of the work.

5. Add the Peas

• About 30 minutes before the cook time is up, stir in the frozen peas. They only need a short time to cook through and retain their vibrant color.

6. Thicken the Broth (Optional)

• If you prefer a thicker broth, whisk the all-purpose flour with a small amount of water to create a slurry. Stir it into the stew during the last hour of cooking.

7. Serve and Garnish

• Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh thyme if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice.

Tips for the Best Crockpot Beef Stew

1. Choose the Right Cut of Beef

• Opt for well-marbled stew meat, like chuck roast, which becomes tender and flavorful during slow cooking.

2. Don’t Skip the Searing

• Browning the beef before adding it to the slow cooker enhances the depth of flavor.

3. Layer Ingredients Properly

• Place meat at the bottom of the slow cooker to ensure it cooks evenly and absorbs the most flavor.

4. Adjust the Consistency

• For a thinner broth, skip the flour. For a thicker consistency, don’t forget the slurry.

5. Customize the Vegetables

• Add parsnips, turnips, or mushrooms for variety.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (1/6 of recipe)
Calories	~350
Protein	32g
Fat	12g
Carbohydrates	30g
Fiber	6g

Why Crockpot Beef Stew Is Perfect for Any Occasion

This recipe is versatile and works for a range of settings:

• Weeknight Dinners: Easy to prepare and perfect for busy schedules.
• Family Gatherings: Feeds a crowd with minimal effort.
• Meal Prep: Tastes even better as leftovers and freezes beautifully.

FAQs About Crockpot Beef Stew

1. Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! You can substitute beef with lamb, pork, or even chicken thighs. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

2. Can I make this stew gluten-free?

Absolutely. Replace the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

4. Can I freeze Crockpot Beef Stew?

Yes, it freezes well! Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

5. What can I serve with beef stew?

Crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or rice are excellent options for soaking up the flavorful broth.

6. Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can prepare it in a Dutch oven. Simmer on low heat on the stovetop for 2–3 hours.

A Comforting Classic for Every Cook

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of Crockpot Beef Stew wafting through your home. With its tender beef, perfectly cooked vegetables, and rich, savory broth, this dish is the ultimate comfort food.

So why wait? Gather your ingredients, set up your slow cooker, and let the magic happen. This recipe is a surefire way to bring warmth and joy to your table.

Call to Action: Try this Crockpot Beef Stew Recipe today and share it with your loved ones—it’s a meal they’ll ask for again and again!

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