Ultimate Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Published:

A bowl of ultimate slow cooker beef stew with vegetables and herbs.

introduction

This stew cooks slow in a pot. It fills your home with warm smell. It uses common items and small work. You can mix it in the morning and come home to a hot meal. See a simple slow cooker beef stew guide for another take on the dish.

why make this recipe

You make this stew for a warm, full meal with little work. The slow cooker makes the beef soft and the veg sweet. You can set it and forget it. It fits busy days and cold nights. If you like slow meals, try a different stew idea like this chicken stew recipe for a change.

how to make Ultimate Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Work in clear steps. Cut the beef and veg first. Mix the broth and sauce in a bowl. Put all in the slow cooker. Cook low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. Remove the bay leaf before you serve.

Ingredients :

  • 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 4 carrots, sliced
  • 4 potatoes, diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For a near recipe list and small changes, see this simple beef stew notes.

Directions :

  1. In a slow cooker, combine beef, carrots, potatoes, onion, and garlic.
  2. In a separate bowl, mix together the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
  3. Pour the mixture over the beef and vegetables in the slow cooker.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until beef is tender.
  5. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Enjoy your stew!

Ultimate Slow Cooker Beef Stew

how to serve Ultimate Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Serve the stew hot in deep bowls. Add fresh parsley or a small spoon of butter for shine. Serve with bread or rice on the side. For a fun side, try cheese dumplings with your stew like this cheddar herb dumplings idea.

how to store Ultimate Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Let the stew cool to room temperature. Put it in a sealed container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Freeze in a freezer-safe box for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and heat on the stove until hot.

tips to make Ultimate Slow Cooker Beef Stew

  • Brown the beef first in a pan. This adds more flavor. See a basic beef tip here.
  • Cut all veg to the same size so they cook evenly.
  • Taste the broth near the end and add salt or pepper as needed.
  • Remove the bay leaf before you serve to avoid a bitter bite.

variation (if any)

  • Add mushrooms for a deep, earthy taste.
  • Use parsnip or turnip in place of some potatoes.
  • Add a splash of red wine for a richer broth.
  • For thicker stew, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water and stir in at the end, then cook 15 more minutes.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different cut of beef?
A: Yes. Use a cut that has some fat and connective tissue, like chuck. It stays soft in the slow cook.

Q: Can I add frozen vegetables?
A: Yes. Add frozen veg in the last hour of cook time so they do not turn mushy.

Q: Do I need to brown the beef?
A: No. The stew will still taste good. Browning adds more color and flavor but it is optional.

Q: Can I make this on the stove?
A: Yes. Brown the beef, add all ingredients, simmer on low for 2 to 3 hours until meat is soft.

Q: How do I reheat leftover stew?
A: Warm it slowly on the stove or in the microwave until it is hot all the way through.

Conclusion

This stew makes a warm, calm meal with little work. For another clear slow cooker model and more tips, visit Slow Cooker Beef Stew – The Cozy Cook (https://thecozycook.com/slow-cooker-beef-stew/).

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Ultimate Slow Cooker Beef Stew


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: olivia
  • Total Time: 255 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: None

Description

A warm and hearty beef stew that cooks slowly in a slow cooker, perfect for busy days and cold nights.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 4 carrots, sliced
  • 4 potatoes, diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a slow cooker, combine beef, carrots, potatoes, onion, and garlic.
  2. In a separate bowl, mix together the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
  3. Pour the mixture over the beef and vegetables in the slow cooker.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until beef is tender.
  5. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Enjoy your stew!

Notes

For richer flavor, brown the beef first. Cut all vegetables to the same size for even cooking. Adjust seasoning at the end to taste.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 240 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star