Slow Cooker Beef Stew
This Slow Cooker Beef Stew is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly days and family gatherings. With its rich flavors and tender ingredients, this dish warms the heart and fills the belly. The slow cooking process allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this stew is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting Flavor: Each bowl is packed with savory goodness that warms you from the inside out.
- Effortless Preparation: Simply toss in all ingredients and let your slow cooker do the work.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables or add extra spices to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
- Ideal for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weekday meal or a special gathering, this stew fits right in.
Tools and Preparation
To create this delicious Slow Cooker Beef Stew, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need to gather before starting.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Large skillet
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Silicone spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: This is essential for achieving that tender meat and rich flavor through long, slow cooking.
- Large skillet: Browning the beef enhances its flavor before adding it to the slow cooker.
- Silicone spatula: Perfect for scraping up those flavorful brown bits from the skillet.
Ingredients
This traditional Beef Stew is loaded with tender bites of juicy beef, golden potatoes, carrots, peas, red wine, onions, garlic, and a hearty beef broth. It’s the BEST Slow Cooker recipe for Fall and Winter.
- 2 ½ pounds stew meat (see notes)
- ½ teaspoon EACH: black pepper, garlic salt, celery salt
- 1/4 cup flour
- 3-6 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons cold butter (divided)
- 2 cups yellow onions (diced)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup cabernet sauvignon (or merlot. See notes.)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 beef bouillon cubes
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 5 medium carrots (cut into 1-inch chunks)
- 1 lb. baby Yukon gold potatoes (halved or quartered)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 sprig rosemary
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/4 cup Cold Water + 3 tablespoons Corn Starch (Optional)
- 2-3 drops Gravy Master (Optional– Adds a richer, darker color.)
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Step 1: Prepare the Meat
Cut meat into 1-inch cubes, discarding any large pieces of fat. Fat marbled into the meat is fine!
Step 2: Season and Flour the Beef
Sprinkle beef with black pepper, garlic salt, and celery salt. Toss to coat. Sprinkle flour over the meat and toss again.
Step 3: Brown the Meat
Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the meat in batches; don’t overcrowd the pan.
Brown on each side for about 45 seconds.
Add more oil if needed.
Transfer browned meat to slow cooker.
Step 4: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Reduce heat to medium and melt 1 tablespoon of cold butter.
Add diced onions:
Cook for about five minutes until softened.
Add minced garlic:
Cook for one more minute.
Add a splash of wine:
Scrape up any brown bits from the skillet using a silicone spatula to enhance flavor.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
Transfer onions, garlic, and remaining wine to slow cooker along with all remaining ingredients except peas, cornstarch mixture, and two tablespoons of cold butter.
Step 6: Slow Cook
Cook on low for about seven and a half to eight hours or high for three and a half to four hours until vegetables are soft and potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 7: Add Peas
Add frozen peas during the last fifteen minutes of cooking. Remove bay leaves and rosemary stem before serving.
Step 8: Optional Thickening
To thicken stew:
Combine cold water with cornstarch; slowly add it while stirring to incorporate.
Step 9: Finish with Butter
Turn off heat. Swirl in two tablespoons of cold butter for a smooth finish—a chef technique called “Monter au Beurre.” Optionally add three drops of Gravy Master for color enhancement.
With these steps done right, you’re ready to serve up bowls of warm comfort! Enjoy your homemade Slow Cooker Beef Stew!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Serving Slow Cooker Beef Stew is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with various accompaniments. Here are some creative ways to serve this hearty dish that will please your family and friends.
With Fresh Bread
- Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of warm, crusty baguette for dipping into the rich broth.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft and fluffy rolls can be perfect for sopping up the stew.
Over Rice
- White Rice: A bed of fluffy white rice adds a nice texture and absorbs the flavors beautifully.
- Brown Rice: For a healthier option, brown rice provides a nutty flavor that complements the stew.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Parsley: Adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens up the dish visually and enhances the taste.
- Thyme Sprigs: Garnish with thyme for an aromatic touch that pairs well with beef.
With a Side Salad
- Garden Salad: A light garden salad can balance the richness of the stew.
- Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing adds a nice contrast to the hearty stew.
With Mashed Potatoes
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Serve the stew over creamy mashed potatoes for extra comfort food goodness.
How to Perfect Slow Cooker Beef Stew
To achieve the best results with your Slow Cooker Beef Stew, consider these helpful tips. Each step can greatly enhance the flavor and texture of your dish.
- Choose the Right Meat: Use well-marbled cuts like chuck roast for tender, juicy bites after slow cooking.
- Brown Your Meat: Searing beef before adding it to the slow cooker develops rich flavors that elevate the stew.
- Layer Ingredients Properly: Place hearty vegetables at the bottom and meat on top, ensuring even cooking.
- Use Quality Broth: Opt for homemade or high-quality store-bought beef broth as it significantly impacts taste.
- Don’t Skip Seasoning: Always season layers as you cook; this builds depth in flavor throughout your stew.
- Thicken Wisely: If you prefer a thicker stew, use cornstarch mixed with cold water towards the end of cooking.
Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Beef Stew can enhance your meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread complements the stew’s flavors while adding satisfying crunch.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw provides a crunchy texture and tangy contrast to the rich beef stew.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies add color and additional nutrients to your meal.
- Polenta: Creamy polenta offers a comforting base that absorbs all those lovely juices from the stew.
- Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans add freshness and a pop of color alongside your dish.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad can provide added protein and keep things interesting on your plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Slow Cooker Beef Stew can be a delightful dish, but there are common pitfalls that may affect its quality. Here are mistakes to avoid for the best results:
- Not browning the meat: Skipping this step can result in a less flavorful stew. Take the time to brown the beef in batches for maximum flavor.
- Overcrowding the slow cooker: This can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure there’s enough space for ingredients to simmer properly without overcrowding.
- Skipping seasoning adjustments: Each ingredient varies in taste; taste your stew before serving and adjust seasoning as needed for better flavor.
- Adding frozen peas too early: This can make them mushy. Add peas during the last 15 minutes of cooking for the perfect texture.
- Ignoring cooking times: Cooking too short or too long affects texture. Follow recommended cooking times closely for best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Slow Cooker Beef Stew
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- Can be frozen up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Slow Cooker Beef Stew
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low in a saucepan until steaming, stirring occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Slow Cooker Beef Stew:
What cuts of beef are best for Slow Cooker Beef Stew?
Chuck roast is ideal due to its tenderness after slow cooking. It adds rich flavor to your stew.
Can I add other vegetables to my Slow Cooker Beef Stew?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate vegetables like parsnips or bell peppers based on your preferences.
How can I thicken my Slow Cooker Beef Stew?
You can mix cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the stew towards the end of cooking for a thicker consistency.
Is it possible to make Slow Cooker Beef Stew without wine?
Yes, you can substitute wine with more beef broth or even apple cider vinegar for a different flavor profile.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Beef Stew recipe offers warmth and comfort perfect for chilly days. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on what you have on hand. Try it out today and enjoy a hearty meal that brings joy to your table!
Slow Cooker Beef Stew
- Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Slow Cooker Beef Stew is the ultimate comfort food that warms you up from the inside out. Perfect for chilly nights and family gatherings, this hearty dish features tender beef simmered with a medley of vegetables in a rich, flavorful broth. The slow cooking process allows the ingredients to meld beautifully, resulting in mouthwatering flavors that are sure to impress your loved ones. With minimal effort required, simply toss your ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do the work for you. Enjoy this cozy meal alongside crusty bread or over fluffy rice for a satisfying dinner that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 2 ½ pounds stew meat
- 2 cups yellow onions
- 4 cloves garlic
- 5 medium carrots
- 1 lb baby Yukon gold potatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (cabernet sauvignon or merlot)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- black pepper
- garlic salt
- celery salt
- 1/4 cup flour
- 3–6 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons cold butter (divided)
- 2 beef bouillon cubes
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 sprig rosemary
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/4 cup Cold Water + 3 tablespoons Corn Starch (Optional)
- 2–3 drops Gravy Master (Optional)
Instructions
- Cut stew meat into 1-inch cubes and season with black pepper, garlic salt, and celery salt. Toss with flour.
- Brown the meat in olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Transfer to slow cooker.
- Sauté onions and garlic in skillet until softened; add a splash of wine to deglaze and transfer to slow cooker.
- Add remaining ingredients except peas and cornstarch mixture to slow cooker. Stir to combine.
- Cook on low for 7.5 to 8 hours or high for 3.5 to 4 hours until vegetables are tender.
- Add peas during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
- For optional thickening, mix cornstarch with cold water and stir into stew before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
