This easy crock pot beef stew is perfect for cozy dinners! With tender beef, carrots, potatoes, and savory broth, it’s like a warm hug in a bowl.
Just toss everything in, set it, and let the magic happen. Your home will smell amazing, and your taste buds will thank you! I love serving it with some crusty bread for dipping.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: Chuck roast is ideal for stew since it becomes tender when slow-cooked. If you want a leaner option, you can use sirloin, but it won’t be as tender.
Red Wine: Using red wine gives depth to the flavor, but if you don’t want to use alcohol, just stick with extra beef broth. You could also add a splash of vinegar for acidity.
Carrots and Potatoes: Carrots add sweetness, while potatoes make it hearty. Feel free to swap with parsnips or sweet potatoes if you prefer a different flavor. Just remember, sweet potatoes cook faster!
Herbs: Dried thyme and rosemary are classic, but fresh herbs can elevate the taste. If you have fresh ones, use 3 times the amount since they’re more potent.
Frozen Peas: You can skip them if you’re not a fan or substitute with green beans or corn for an added touch of color and sweetness.
How Do You Achieve Tender, Flavorsome Beef in Your Stew?
The secret to perfectly tender beef lies in the browning process and low, slow cooking. Browning the beef first locks in flavor and adds richness. Don’t rush this step—taking 4-5 minutes per batch is key.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet. Brown beef cubes in batches, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded, or they won’t sear properly.
- After browning, sauté the onions and garlic in the same skillet. This infuses their flavors into the oil, enhancing your stew.
Once everything’s in the crock pot, cooking on the low setting for 7-8 hours allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes the beef fork-tender. Trust me, the wait is worth it!
Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe for Cozy Dinners
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional; can substitute with extra beef broth)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 cup frozen peas (added toward the end)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious beef stew takes about 15 minutes of prep time. After that, you’ll let it cook in your crock pot for 7-8 hours on low (or 3-4 hours on high). It’s perfect for a busy day when you want to come home to a warm meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Beef:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the beef cubes in batches to avoid overcrowding, and brown all sides for about 4-5 minutes. This step adds lots of flavor, so don’t skip it! Once done, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Sautéing Onions and Garlic:
Using the same skillet, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes or until the onions are softened and fragrant. This will add even more delicious flavor to your stew!
3. Combining Ingredients in the Crock Pot:
Now, transfer the browned beef along with the sautéed onions and garlic into your crock pot. Next, add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine everything well.
4. Slow Cooking the Stew:
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef and vegetables are tender. The longer it cooks, the better it will taste!
5. Adding the Peas:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the frozen peas. They add a nice pop of color and sweetness to the stew.
6. Thickening the Stew (Optional):
If you prefer a thicker stew, mix the all-purpose flour with a few tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the stew and cover, cooking for an additional 20-30 minutes until thickened to your liking.
7. Serving the Stew:
Before serving, don’t forget to remove the bay leaves! Ladle the hot stew into bowls and enjoy it with some crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a truly comforting meal.
Enjoy your warm and hearty crock pot beef stew, perfect for cozy dinners!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Beef in This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the beef completely before browning, as cooking directly from frozen can result in uneven cooking. Thaw the beef overnight in the fridge or submerge it in cold water in a sealed bag for faster thawing.
What Can I Substitute for Red Wine?
If you prefer not to use red wine, simply replace it with additional beef broth or use grape juice mixed with a splash of vinegar for a similar flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the stew may be slightly less rich without the wine.
How Do I Store Leftover Beef Stew?
Store leftover beef stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes well! Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container, where it can be stored for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a bit of broth if it needs loosening up.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
Absolutely! If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce to the stew. Adjust the amount to your desired spice level, but remember, it’s always easier to add spice than to take it away!
