Slow Cooker Beef Stew

The first time I made Slow Cooker Beef Stew, I was looking for something to warm my soul on a cold winter’s night. There’s something so comforting about a hearty stew bubbling away in the kitchen, filling the air with the inviting aroma of tender beef and fresh vegetables. I remember walking in after a long day, and the scent wrapping around me like a cozy blanket. As I savored each spoonful, I felt not just nourished, but completely content. This dish isn’t just about food; it’s about gathering around the table with loved ones, sharing stories, and creating memories.

Slow Cooker Beef Stew Ingredients

Quality ingredients are the backbone of any great dish. In Slow Cooker Beef Stew, each ingredient plays a vital role in building depth and flavor. The rich, savory notes of the beef meld beautifully with the sweetness of the carrots and the earthiness of mushrooms, creating a harmonious blend that’s hard to resist.

• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 pounds boneless grass-fed chuck, cubed
• 3 carrots, chopped
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 cup mushrooms, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon tapioca flour or flour of choice
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic granules
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon sea salt, more to taste
• 1 teaspoon ground pepper, more to taste
• Optional: 3 large Yukon gold potatoes, diced

Recipe Directions for Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Making Slow Cooker Beef Stew is a satisfying process that yields remarkable results. Just follow these simple steps and enjoy the amazing aroma that fills your kitchen.

1. First, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. You want the oil to get hot, shimmering but not smoking. It should be ready when you see a little ripple in the surface.
2. Next, sear the chuck cubes. Place them in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for about three minutes on each side until they’ve developed a beautiful brown crust. This step enhances the flavor of the beef!
3. Once browned, set the beef aside and let the skillet cool slightly. This is a great time to chop your onion, carrots, celery, and mushrooms if you haven’t done so yet.
4. Now, in your slow cooker, layer the meat and all the chopped vegetables. Make sure everything is evenly distributed, so every bite is packed with flavor.
5. Pour in the beef broth and add the tomato paste. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients, ensuring everything is well-coated.
6. Next, sprinkle in the paprika, garlic granules, parsley, thyme, sea salt, and ground pepper. If you’re in the mood for some heat, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes here as well!
7. Don’t forget the bay leaf! It adds an amazing depth of flavor. Just toss it in whole; you’ll remove it later.
8. Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for about eight to ten hours. Patience is key as the flavors meld together beautifully over time.
9. About an hour before serving, taste the stew. Adjust the spices as needed, adding more salt or spices according to your preference.
10. When it’s done, remember to remove the bay leaf before serving. Your stew should be thick and the beef incredibly tender.
11. Serve the Slow Cooker Beef Stew hot, and enjoy the comforting warmth it brings!

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

This Slow Cooker Beef Stew is a fantastic base for adaptations. Here are some ways to tailor it:

• Add more vegetables: Feel free to incorporate other seasonal vegetables like parsnips, turnips, or even sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile.
• Spice it up: If you like things spicy, throw in some chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to kick it up a notch.
• Thicken the stew: If you prefer a thicker stew, mix a little cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the stew during the last hour of cooking.
• Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano for a unique twist.
• Storage: Leftovers are perfect for lunch the next day. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
• Freezing: You can freeze this stew for up to three months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
• Pairing: This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

How to Enjoy Slow Cooker Beef Stew

There are so many enjoyable ways to serve Slow Cooker Beef Stew! Here are some ideas:

• Serve it hot: Ladle generous portions into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.
• Pair with bread: A slice of crusty bread or warm rolls is perfect for soaking up all the delicious broth.
• Side dishes: Consider serving a simple green salad or roasted vegetables alongside for a balanced meal.
• Meal prep: This stew is an ideal candidate for meal prepping. Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
• Occasions: It’s perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or cozy nights in front of the fireplace.
• Storage tips: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for three days or frozen for later enjoyment.
• Seasonal pairings: This dish shines during colder seasons, but can be enjoyed year-round!

FAQ

Conclusion

The Slow Cooker Beef Stew is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Its heartiness and rich flavors make it a family favorite that’s easy to prepare. I encourage you to try this recipe and savor the satisfaction it brings. You’ll be glad you did!

Slow Cooker Beef Stew

The ultimate comfort food, Slow Cooker Beef Stew is rich, hearty, and packed with flavor! Perfect for warming up your winter evenings, this easy weeknight dinner is sure to satisfy. Make it tonight for a bowl of cozy deliciousness!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 hours hrs

Total Time 8 hours hrs 10 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 pounds boneless grass-fed chuck
• 3 carrots
• 1 large onion
• 1 cup mushrooms
• 2 cloves garlic
• 2 stalks celery
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon tapioca flour or flour of choice
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic granules
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon sea salt, more to taste
• 1 teaspoon ground pepper, more to taste
• 3 large Yukon gold potatoes optional

Equipment

• Skillet
• Chef's Knife
• Cutting Board
• Mixing Bowl

Method

 

1. Heat oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Sear meat for about 3 minutes on each side, until browned. Set aside.
2. Place meat and vegetables in the crock pot.
3. Add in broth, tomato paste, tapioca, and spices. Mix well to combine.
4. Set on low for 8 to 10 hours.
5. After 7 hours, taste and adjust spices to your liking (i.e. add additional salt, cayenne, or red pepper flakes).
6. Remove bay leaf and serve hot!

Notes

• Storage: Leftover stew can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze this stew for up to three months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
• Pairing: A slice of crusty bread or warm rolls is perfect for soaking up all the delicious broth.
• Meal prep: This stew is an ideal candidate for meal prepping. Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
• Occasions: It’s perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or cozy nights in front of the fireplace.

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Meet Harper Dean

I love the creative challenge of making weeknight dinners feel special without the fuss. I work alongside the team to develop and test recipes that are reliable but never dull. I prepared this meal in my own kitchen, refining the steps to make sure your cooking experience is smooth, fun, and delicious.