Comforting Crockpot Beef Stew Recipe

Introduction

This comforting crockpot beef stew is perfect for chilly days when you crave a warm, hearty meal. Tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and rich broth slowly simmer together to create a satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare. Let your slow cooker do the work while you relax!

Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 4 carrots, sliced
• 3 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional, for richer flavor)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for searing

Instructions

1. Step 1: Trim excess fat from the beef and chop the vegetables into uniform pieces for even cooking. Season the beef with salt and pepper.
2. Step 2: Heat a splash of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef until browned on all sides to enhance flavor and texture.
3. Step 3: Transfer the seared beef to the crockpot. Add carrots, potatoes, onion, garlic, tomato paste, dried thyme, dried rosemary, beef broth, and red wine if using. Stir to combine evenly.
4. Step 4: Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is fork-tender and vegetables are soft.
5. Step 5: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. For a thicker stew, stir in a slurry made from cornstarch and water if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.

Tips & Variations

• For extra depth, replace some or all of the beef broth with low-sodium broth to control salt levels.
• Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a bay leaf during cooking for enhanced flavor.
• Use root vegetables like parsnips or turnips in place of or alongside potatoes for variety.
• If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water and stir into the stew about 30 minutes before serving.

Storage

Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in a microwave until heated through. You can also freeze the stew for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, stew beef or short ribs can be good alternatives but may require adjusting cooking times to ensure tenderness.

Do I have to use red wine?

No, red wine is optional and adds richness. You can substitute additional beef broth if you prefer not to use wine.

Comforting Crockpot Beef Stew Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 139 reviews

This Comforting Crockpot Beef Stew is a hearty, flavorful dish featuring tender beef chuck roast simmered with carrots, potatoes, and aromatic herbs in a rich broth. Slow-cooked to perfection, it delivers a warm, satisfying meal perfect for chilly days or when you crave a classic, home-cooked stew.

• Author: Mia
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 hours (low) or 4-5 hours (high)
• Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes (low) or 5 hours 20 minutes (high)
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Stew
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Beef and Vegetables

• 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 4 carrots, sliced
• 3 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids and Flavorings

• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional, for richer flavor)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for searing

Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients: Trim any excess fat from the beef chuck roast and cut it into bite-sized pieces. Peel and chop the carrots and potatoes into uniform sizes and chop the onion. Mince the garlic cloves to ensure even distribution throughout the stew.
2. Sear the Beef: Heat a splash of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the beef generously with salt and pepper, then sear the pieces in the hot skillet until browned on all sides. This step enhances the flavor and texture of the meat.
3. Combine in Crockpot: Transfer the seared beef to the crockpot. Add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, tomato paste, dried thyme, dried rosemary, beef broth, and red wine if using. Stir everything well to combine.
4. Slow Cook: Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on low heat for 8 hours or on high heat for 4 to 5 hours, until the beef is fork-tender and the vegetables are softened to your liking.
5. Final Seasoning and Serve: Taste the stew and adjust salt and pepper as needed. If you prefer a thicker stew, mix a slurry of cornstarch and water and stir it into the crockpot, cooking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes to thicken. Serve the stew hot, paired with crusty bread or over creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Notes

• For a richer flavor, red wine is optional but highly recommended.
• If you want a thicker stew, use a cornstarch slurry near the end of cooking.
• Ensure vegetables are cut into similar sizes for even cooking.
• Searing the beef is an important step for enhanced flavor, do not skip.
• The stew can be made a day ahead and tastes even better the next day.

Keywords: beef stew, crockpot stew, slow cooker beef stew, comfort food, easy beef stew, hearty stew