Why You’ll Love Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe
This slow cooker beef stew is the definition of comfort food made easy. It requires minimal prep, then the slow cooker does all the work while the flavors deepen and develop over time. The beef becomes incredibly tender, and the vegetables soak up the rich, savory broth. It’s a reliable, family-friendly meal that’s perfect for busy days, cold weather, or whenever you want something filling and nourishing.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 lbs beef stew meat
3 carrots, sliced
3 potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups beef broth
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried thyme
2 tbsp olive oil
Directions
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and brown the beef on all sides. This step adds extra flavor to the stew.
Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker.
Add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the slow cooker.
In a separate bowl, mix together the beef broth, tomato paste, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme until well combined.
Pour the mixture over the beef and vegetables in the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are fully cooked.
Stir well before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 6 servings.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours
Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
Variations
You can swap the beef for chicken if you prefer a lighter version of this dish. For added nutrition and color, stir in peas or green beans during the last hour of cooking. If you want a thicker stew, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it in during the final 30 minutes. For a deeper flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a bay leaf while cooking.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the stew on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, or use the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
For longer storage, freeze the stew in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Can I skip browning the beef?
Yes, you can skip this step, but browning adds a richer flavor to the final dish.
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, chuck roast or any stew-friendly cut works well because it becomes tender during slow cooking.
How do I thicken the stew?
You can add a cornstarch slurry or mash a few of the potatoes directly into the stew.
Can I cook this on high instead of low?
Yes, cook on high for 4 to 5 hours instead of 7 to 8 hours on low.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely, vegetables like celery, peas, or green beans work great in this recipe.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, it freezes very well for up to 3 months.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
What can I serve with beef stew?
Crusty bread, rice, or mashed potatoes make great accompaniments.
Can I make this without a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook it on the stovetop or in the oven at a low temperature until the beef is tender.
How do I know when the beef is done?
The beef is ready when it is fork-tender and easily pulls apart.
Conclusion
This slow cooker beef stew is a classic, comforting meal that delivers deep flavor with minimal effort. With tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich broth, it’s a dependable recipe that you’ll come back to again and again, especially when you need a warm and satisfying dish.
