There’s something magical about coming home to the warm, savory aroma of Crockpot Beef Stew wafting through the house. It’s like a cozy hug from your kitchen, wrapping you in its delicious embrace. Picture tender beef chunks swimming in a thick, hearty broth with vibrant carrots and potatoes, all seasoned to perfection. comforting cabbage soup recipe You can practically hear it saying, “Dinner is served! Come and get me!”
I still remember the first time I made this stew. My friends were over for a game night, and as soon as they walked in, their noses twitched in delight. I could see them mentally calculating how many bowls they could fit into their bellies. By the end of the night, there wasn’t a drop left—only satisfied smiles and murmurs of “You have to share this recipe!” Perfect for chilly nights or lazy Sundays, this dish will elevate your dinner game without requiring you to don an apron or channel your inner Gordon Ramsay. quick Philly cheesesteak pasta.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Crockpot Beef Stew is incredibly easy to prepare and will have your family asking for seconds
- The rich flavors meld beautifully while it cooks slowly, making every bite delightful
- Visually appealing with vibrant veggies peeking through thick gravy, it’s a feast for both the eyes and the stomach
- Versatile enough for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, it’s truly a comfort food classic
Every time I serve this dish, my friends rave about how comforting and delicious it is—definitely a hit among meat lovers.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Beef Chuck Roast: Choose well-marbled beef for optimal tenderness during cooking; it breaks down beautifully in the slow cooker.
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Carrots: Fresh carrots add natural sweetness; cut them into chunky pieces for maximum flavor retention.
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Potatoes: Use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes; they hold up well and absorb all those wonderful flavors.
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Onions: Yellow onions provide a sweet base that enhances the overall flavor profile of the stew.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic adds depth; crush it for better flavor release as it cooks.
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Beef Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth so you can control the saltiness of your final dish.
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Tomato Paste: It gives body and richness; don’t skip this ingredient!
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Dried Herbs (Thyme & Bay Leaves): These herbs elevate the stew’s aromatic profile; use fresh if available!
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Black Pepper & Salt: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste preferences.
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Olive Oil: For browning the beef before slow cooking; adds flavor and seals in juices.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Browning the Beef: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the beef with salt and pepper before adding it to the pan until browned on all sides—about 5 minutes per side. beef ramen stir fry.
Sautéing Aromatics: In the same skillet, toss in chopped onions and minced garlic; sauté until softened and fragrant—this should take about 2-3 minutes.
Add Ingredients to Crockpot: Transfer browned beef and sautéed onions into your crockpot. beef bites with potatoes Layer carrots and potatoes on top along with tomato paste for added richness.
Pour in Broth: Carefully pour beef broth over everything; add dried thyme and bay leaves for that comforting aroma that fills your kitchen.
Crockpot Cooking: Cover your crockpot and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until everything is tender—just wait until you catch that irresistible scent!
Finishing Touches: Once cooked, remove bay leaves before serving. Taste before plating to see if additional seasoning is needed—trust me; you’ll want to adjust!
With each step taken towards creating this glorious Crockpot Beef Stew, you’ll feel more connected to both your ingredients and memories waiting to be made around your dinner table!
You Must Know
- This Crockpot Beef Stew is a comforting classic that simmers all day, filling your home with irresistible aromas
- It’s an easy one-pot meal, perfect for busy days
- The tender beef and hearty vegetables create a dish that’s packed with flavor and nostalgia
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve tender beef and flavorful broth, sear the meat first, then add veggies and liquid for slow cooking.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different vegetables like sweet potatoes or add herbs like rosemary for extra flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Cut your beef into uniform pieces for even cooking; this prevents some pieces from being overcooked while others remain tough
- Always taste before serving; seasoning can enhance flavors dramatically
- Let your stew rest before serving; this allows flavors to meld beautifully
Sometimes, I make this stew when the weather turns chilly, and friends gather around to share stories. Their smiles after a hearty bowl remind me why I love cooking.
FAQ
Can I use frozen vegetables in my Crockpot Beef Stew?
Yes, frozen veggies are convenient and work well in this hearty stew without compromising flavor.
How long should I cook beef stew in a crockpot?
Cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until the beef is tender.
What can I serve with Crockpot Beef Stew?
Serve it with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a complete meal experience.
Crockpot Beef Stew
- Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Crockpot Beef Stew is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings. This hearty dish combines tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and rich broth that simmers slowly to create a mouthwatering meal. Just imagine coming home to the savory aroma filling your kitchen, inviting you to dig in. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, ensuring your family will be asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 medium carrots, chopped
- 4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, diced
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the beef with salt and pepper, then brown on all sides (about 5 minutes per side).
- In the same skillet, sauté onions and garlic until softened (about 2-3 minutes).
- Transfer browned beef and sautéed aromatics to the crockpot. Layer carrots and potatoes on top and stir in tomato paste.
- Pour beef broth over the mixture; add thyme and bay leaves.
- Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until tender.
- Before serving, remove bay leaves and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
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