This Crockpot Beef Stew is like a warm hug in a bowl! Packed with tender beef, carrots, and potatoes, it makes for a cozy meal any night of the week.
Just toss everything in the crockpot, let it simmer, and enjoy the delicious smells around your home. Perfect for stocking up on hearty goodness!
I love how easy it is to prepare. After a long day, I can just scoop a big bowl and relax. Best served with a slice of crusty bread—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: I recommend using chuck or round cuts for their flavor and tenderness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute with turkey or chicken for a lighter stew.
Vegetables: Carrots and potatoes are classic, but feel free to add peas or green beans. If you’re looking to cut carbs, turnips or cauliflower can make great substitutes for potatoes!
Beef Broth: Store-bought broth is convenient, but homemade broth enhances flavor. For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead. Just be aware it will change the profile a bit.
Tomato Sauce: I like using tomato sauce for a richer flavor. If you prefer, diced tomatoes can add a fresher taste. For no-tomato versions, try using a splash of balsamic vinegar for acidity.
How Do I Get Tender Meat in My Stew?
Getting tender beef is all about cooking it low and slow. Here’s how to ensure your meat comes out perfectly cooked:
- If you’re browning the meat, make sure it’s done in batches to avoid steaming.
- Let the beef cook for the recommended time—this allows the collagen to break down, resulting in tender pieces.
- Resisting the urge to lift the lid during cooking helps maintain the heat and moisture inside the crockpot.
Trust the process! Stews are best when given time, so relax and let your flavorful meal come together. Enjoy your cooking!
Crockpot Beef Stew Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce or diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (optional, for browning meat)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 20 minutes to prepare the ingredients, and then let the crockpot do its magic for 7-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. So, plan for a comforting meal ready when you get home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Optional Meat Browning:
If you’d like to add extra flavor, start by heating vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Toss the beef cubes with flour, seasoned lightly with salt and pepper. Brown the beef in batches until nicely seared on all sides (about 3-4 minutes), then transfer it to the crockpot.
2. Add Vegetables:
Next, add the chopped carrots, potatoes, and onion on top of the beef in the crockpot. This layering will help with even cooking.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, combine the beef broth, tomato sauce (or diced tomatoes), minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and rosemary. Mix well and then pour this tasty mixture over the beef and vegetables in the crockpot.
4. Season to Taste:
Season with additional salt and pepper according to your liking. Stir gently to combine the ingredients.
5. Cook and Simmer:
Cover your crockpot and set it to cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The beef should be tender, and the vegetables will be perfectly cooked.
6. Final Touches:
Once cooked, taste your stew and adjust the seasonings if necessary. You can add more salt, pepper, or herbs if you like!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your hearty beef stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for a fulfilling meal. Enjoy your comfort food extravaganza!
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the beef completely before adding it to the crockpot. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or place it in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for a quicker option.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Stew?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the stew with vegetables like peas, green beans, or mushrooms. Just be sure to add them in the last hour of cooking to maintain some texture.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Thicken the Stew Further?
If you’d like a thicker stew, you can make a slurry with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir it into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking and allow it to thicken up!
