This Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew is warm and satisfying with tender beef and tasty veggies. Just toss in the ingredients, set it, and let the slow cooker do all the work!
You can’t go wrong with a meal that fills your kitchen with inviting smells all day long. Perfect for chilly nights or when you need a hug in a bowl! 🥣
I love how easy this stew is to make. Just chop, season, and let it simmer. By the time dinner rolls around, the only thing left to do is enjoy a cozy bowl with some bread on the side!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck: This cut is perfect for stews because it becomes tender with slow cooking. If you prefer, you can substitute with beef stew meat or even try a leaner cut like sirloin.
Red Wine: It adds depth to the flavor! If you’re not a fan of wine, feel free to replace it with more beef broth or even a splash of balsamic vinegar for some tang.
Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and potatoes are classic choices. Feel free to get creative! You can add parsnips, sweet potatoes, or even mushrooms for an earthy touch.
Herbs: Thyme and rosemary are great for flavor. If fresh herbs are available, they can really elevate the dish. You can also swap them for Italian seasoning if that’s what you have.
How Do I Ensure the Beef is Perfectly Tender?
The secret to tender beef is in the cooking process. Browning the beef before slow cooking adds flavor and helps lock in juices. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the beef. This creates a nice sear.
- Don’t crowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. This helps achieve a good browning.
- Cook on low for the most tender results. Patience pays off! Give it at least 7 hours.
Remember, let the stew rest a bit after cooking. The flavors meld together beautifully when it sits for a moment!
Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Stew:
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional; can substitute with more beef broth)
- 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 cup frozen peas (added near the end of cooking)
- For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty beef stew takes about 20 minutes of prep time, followed by 7-8 hours of slow cooking on low or 3-4 hours on high. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it kind of meal—just prep your ingredients and let the Crock Pot work its magic!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
In a large bowl, toss the beef cubes with flour, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated. This step helps to thicken the stew later on and adds flavor.
2. Brown the Beef:
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches, ensuring all sides are seared nicely, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Once browned, transfer the beef to the crock pot.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until they are softened and fragrant. Transfer this mixture to the crock pot with the beef.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Add the beef broth and red wine (if using) to the crock pot. Stir everything together until well combined. This will be the base of your stew.
5. Add Vegetables and Herbs:
Now it’s time to add in the chopped carrots, celery, potatoes, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together.
6. Slow Cook:
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The goal is for the beef and vegetables to become tender and flavorful.
7. Stir in the Peas:
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas. This will add a pop of color and sweetness to your stew. Cook until they are heated through.
8. Final Touches:
Remove the bay leaves and give it a taste. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your stew with fresh chopped parsley and serve it hot. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a scoop of rice—perfect for soaking up all that delicious broth!
Enjoy your cozy, hearty crock pot beef stew! 🥣
FAQ for Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen beef! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. You can safely thaw it overnight in the fridge or place it in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker option.
How Can I Thicken the Stew If It’s Too Thin?
If your stew is thinner than you’d like, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir it into the stew about 30 minutes before serving, and let it cook until thickened. You can also let it cook uncovered for a bit to reduce the liquid.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate other vegetables such as parsnips, sweet potatoes, or green beans. Just keep in mind that different veggies may have varying cooking times, so add heartier vegetables earlier in the cooking process.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To freeze, let the stew cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stove or in the microwave.
