Slow Cooker Beef Stew

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by Lionel Ramon

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There’s something magical about the aroma of Slow Cooker Beef Stew wafting through your kitchen, wrapping around you like a warm hug on a chilly day. Picture tender chunks of beef simmering in a rich, savory broth, mingling with hearty vegetables that practically beg for your attention. This dish is not just food; it’s comfort served in a bowl, ready to transport you to cozy evenings and family gatherings.

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Now, let’s be honest: we all have those days when cooking feels more like a chore than an adventure. Enter the slow cooker! This beauty allows you to toss ingredients in, set it, and forget it—like the adult version of hiding under the blankets when responsibilities loom large. Plus, nothing beats the anticipation of coming home to a meal that’s already done, right?

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Slow Cooker Beef Stew is all about ease; just chop and drop into the pot for minimal effort
  • The flavor profile is rich and satisfying, with melt-in-your-mouth beef and vibrant veggies
  • It’s visually appealing with colorful ingredients that make your dinner table pop
  • Perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead

I remember one Thanksgiving when I decided to showcase my culinary skills by making this stew. It ended up being the star of the show while my turkey sat shamefully neglected on the counter.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Beef Chuck Roast: Choose well-marbled cuts for tender meat that falls apart after cooking.

  • Carrots: Fresh, vibrant carrots add sweetness and color; look for firm ones without blemishes.

  • Potatoes: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best; they hold up well during long cooking times.

  • Onions: Yellow onions will add depth of flavor as they caramelize beautifully in the stew.

  • Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves enhance the dish’s savory notes; avoid pre-minced versions if possible.

  • Beef Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness; homemade is always a plus.

  • Tomato Paste: Adds richness and depth to the stew’s flavor profile; don’t skip this one!

  • Herbs (Thyme & Bay Leaves): Fresh herbs elevate flavors; they infuse your stew with aromatic goodness.

  • Pepper & Salt: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste preferences.

  • Worcestershire Sauce: A splash adds umami depth that takes this dish over the top!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. flavorful kabob recipe.

Let’s Make it Together

Get ready to unleash your inner chef and dive into making this incredible Slow Cooker Beef Stew!

Prep Your Veggies: Start by chopping your carrots, potatoes, and onions into bite-sized pieces. Aim for uniform sizes so they cook evenly throughout.

Brown That Beef!: In a skillet over medium-high heat, sear your beef chuck roast until golden brown on all sides—about 3-4 minutes per side should do it! This step adds an amazing depth of flavor.

Toss Everything into the Slow Cooker: Place your browned beef into the slow cooker along with all chopped veggies. roasted chicken with veggies Add minced garlic too because it makes everything smell divine! For more inspiration, check out this Crack Chicken recipe recipe.

Add Your Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in beef broth until everything is submerged—don’t skimp! Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.

Set It and Forget It!: Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. Just walk away and let magic happen while you binge-watch another season of that show everyone keeps talking about.

Savor Your Creation!: Once done cooking, remove bay leaves before serving. Ladle into bowls and watch as everyone gathers around like moths to a flame!

With every spoonful of this Slow Cooker Beef Stew, you’ll experience layers of flavors blending together beautifully. delicious lentil soup Each bite offers tender meat alongside sweet carrots and creamy potatoes—a true feast for both stomach and soul!

You Must Know

  • Slow Cooker Beef Stew is perfect for busy days; simply set and forget
  • The aroma fills your home, making everyone eager for dinner
  • Feel free to experiment with different vegetables, as each addition brings its own unique flavor to the dish

Perfecting the Cooking Process

First, brown the beef for enhanced flavor, then add vegetables and broth to your slow cooker. This order ensures a rich and savory stew that delights every taste bud.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Consider adding potatoes or mushrooms for extra heartiness. A splash of red wine can elevate the stew’s depth, giving it a gourmet flair without much effort.

Storing & Reheating

Store your Slow Cooker Beef Stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave to keep flavors intact. For more inspiration, check out this Mediterranean Steak Bowls recipe recipe.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • When searing beef, don’t overcrowd the pan; this helps achieve that beautiful crust
  • Always taste before serving—sometimes it just needs a pinch of salt
  • Remember, letting it sit allows flavors to meld beautifully!

Sharing this recipe brings back memories of chilly nights spent with friends around the table, laughter ringing out as we savored each bite of hearty stew. hearty oxtail stew recipe.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use frozen beef for Slow Cooker Beef Stew?

Using frozen beef is not recommended; thaw it first for even cooking.

How long should I cook Slow Cooker Beef Stew?

Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours for tender results.

What sides pair well with Slow Cooker Beef Stew?

Crusty bread or a fresh salad complements this dish perfectly, balancing flavors nicely.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Slow Cooker Beef Stew


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  • Author: Jennifer
  • Total Time: 0 hours
  • Yield: Serves about 8 people 1x

Description

Slow Cooker Beef Stew is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings. Tender chunks of beef simmered in a savory broth with hearty vegetables create a rich, flavorful dish that warms the soul. Easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this stew allows you to set it and forget it while you enjoy your day.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 4 medium carrots, chopped
  • 3 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, diced
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Brown the beef chunks in a skillet over medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden.
  2. Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker. Add chopped carrots, potatoes, onions, and minced garlic.
  3. Pour in the beef broth until all ingredients are submerged. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
  5. Remove bay leaves before serving. Enjoy your delicious stew!
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 7 hours (low) or 4 hours (high)
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 290
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

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