This Crockpot Beef Stew is like a warm hug in a bowl! With tender beef, hearty veggies, and tasty herbs, it simmers all day to fill your home with cozy smells.
I love tossing everything in the pot and letting it do its thing. It’s perfect for chilly days, and I can’t resist sneaking in extra carrots—who can say no to that? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: The star of the dish! Look for chuck roast cuts; they become super tender when cooked long and slow. If you’re in a pinch, any beef cut suitable for stewing will work.
Carrots: Classic in stews for natural sweetness. If you’re out of carrots, try parsnips for a similar texture and taste or add frozen mixed vegetables if you’re in a hurry.
Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are best! Both hold their shape well. You can swap in sweet potatoes for a twist or even use frozen hash browns if you’re short on time.
Red Wine: Adds depth to the stew but is optional. Substitute it with more beef broth or a splash of vinegar for a little acidity without the alcohol.
Herbs: Dried thyme and rosemary enhance the flavor. If you have fresh herbs, use them instead for an even better taste. Just remember to use three times the amount since fresh herbs are milder.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Tender Beef in Stew?
The key to tender beef is low and slow cooking. This allows the collagen in the meat to break down, creating that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Here’s how:
- Start by browning the beef in a skillet. This step adds rich flavor and color.
- Make sure to cook the beef on low heat for 7-8 hours or on high heat for 4-5 hours in the crockpot.
- Don’t skip the resting time! Once the stew is done, let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain moisture.
With these tips, you’ll have a hearty beef stew that feels like home on cold days! Enjoy!
How to Make Comforting Crockpot Beef Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with more beef broth)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting beef stew takes about 20 minutes to prep and then it cooks in the crockpot for 7-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high. So, you can set it in the morning and come home to a delicious meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Beef:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides—this should take about 5-7 minutes. Once nicely browned, transfer the beef to your crockpot. This step adds wonderful flavor to the stew!
2. Sautéing the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant. Then, add these to the crockpot with the browned beef.
3. Mixing the Broth:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary. Pour this aromatic mixture over the beef and veggies in the crockpot, making sure everything is coated nicely.
4. Adding the Rest:
Now, it’s time to add the carrots, potatoes, and bay leaves to the crockpot. Give it all a gentle stir to combine, ensuring the ingredients are spread out evenly.
5. Cooking Time:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the beef is tender and the veggies are cooked through. Yum!
6. Optional Thickening:
If you like a thicker stew, about 30 minutes before serving, mix the flour with 3-4 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the stew, cover, and let it cook until thickened.
7. Final Touches:
Before serving, don’t forget to remove the bay leaves. Taste the stew and add extra salt and pepper if needed to make it just right for you!
8. Serving:
Serve hot and garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a splash of color and freshness. Your cozy, comforting bowl of beef stew is now ready to enjoy!
Enjoy every bite of this warm, flavorful dish—it’s perfect for those chilly days when you want something hearty and delicious! 🍲
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Recipe?
Yes! If you’re using frozen beef, be sure to thaw it completely before browning it. You can do this overnight in the fridge or quickly in cold water. Make sure to pat it dry before cooking to get a nice sear!
How Can I Adjust the Stew for Dietary Preferences?
For a healthier twist, consider using lean cuts of beef or adding more vegetables like mushrooms or green beans. You can also omit the wine or use vegetable broth for a lighter option, making it suitable for a vegetarian diet (just replace the beef with hearty veggies and legumes).
Can I Make This Stew Without Wine?
Absolutely! If you prefer not to use wine, simply substitute it with an equal amount of beef broth or add a splash of vinegar for acidity. The stew will still have plenty of flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. This stew also freezes well for up to 3 months—just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
