This Easy Slow Cooker Beef Stew is the perfect dish for chilly nights! It’s packed with tender beef, hearty veggies, and rich broth that warms you from the inside out.
The best part? Just toss everything in and let the slow cooker do the work—no stirring required! I love enjoying this stew with some crusty bread to soak up that yummy sauce!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck: This cut works great because it’s flavorful and tender when cooked slowly. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use sirloin or stew meat, but be aware they may not be as tender.
Red Wine: While it adds depth, you can substitute it with more beef broth if you want to skip the alcohol. I sometimes use a splash of balsamic vinegar for acidity, which works well too!
Vegetables: Feel free to get creative! You can add parsnips or replace potatoes with sweet potatoes for a different twist. If you don’t have fresh carrots, canned or frozen carrots work in a pinch.
Herbs: Dried thyme and rosemary are classic, but if you have fresh herbs on hand, they’re even better! Fresh herbs add a brighter flavor. Just double the amount as dried herbs are more concentrated.
How Do I Get the Beef to Be Super Tender?
The key to tender beef stew is slow cooking! Here’s how to ensure your beef comes out perfectly every time:
- **Sear the Beef:** Browning the beef in olive oil creates a rich flavor base for the stew. Don’t skip this step!
- **Low and Slow:** Cooking on low heat for 7-8 hours allows the tough connective tissues in the beef to break down, resulting in tender meat.
- **Don’t Rush It:** Resist the urge to open the lid. Keeping the lid closed helps maintain the temperature and moisture.
Following these tips will give you a melt-in-your-mouth beef stew that everyone will love! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Easy Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional, or replace with more beef broth)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 1 cup frozen peas (added near the end)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious beef stew will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then you’ll just let the slow cooker do all the work. On low, it needs around 7-8 hours or about 3-4 hours on high. Perfect for a cozy dinner after a long day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
Start by seasoning your beef cubes with salt and pepper. Then, toss the cubes in flour until they are well coated. This helps thicken the stew and gives the beef a nice crust.
2. Brown the Beef:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. In batches, add the beef and brown it on all sides, which takes about 3-4 minutes per batch. Once browned, transfer the beef to your slow cooker.
3. Sauté the Veggies:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they’re fragrant and soft. Then, add the tomato paste and let it cook for another minute. If you’re using wine, pour it in now and scrape up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes before transferring it all to the slow cooker.
4. Combine Everything:
In the slow cooker, add the beef broth, carrots, potatoes, celery, thyme, rosemary, and the bay leaf. Stir everything together to combine the ingredients.
5. Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and let it cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The beef should be super tender, and the veggies should be nice and soft.
6. Add Peas:
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the frozen peas. This helps them keep their bright color and fresh taste. Don’t forget to remove the bay leaf!
7. Final Touches:
Give the stew a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Sometimes, a little extra seasoning is all it takes to bring out the flavors!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out the warm beef stew into bowls, garnishing with fresh parsley. Pair it with crusty bread or a simple salad for a comforting meal. Enjoy your cozy evening!
FAQ about Easy Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen beef, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. Thaw it in the fridge overnight or in cold water for a quicker method. Make sure to pat it dry before seasoning and flouring!
How Can I Change the Cooking Time?
If you’re short on time, cooking on high for 3-4 hours will work fine, but for more tender beef, I recommend sticking to the low setting for 7-8 hours. Just adjust according to your schedule!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the stew for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stove or in the microwave!
Can I Make This Recipe Without Wine?
Absolutely! If you prefer not to use wine, simply replace it with additional beef broth or use a bit of balsamic vinegar for a touch of acidity. Both options will still yield a delicious stew.
