Slow Cooker Beef Stew

INTRODUCTION

Slow cooker beef stew is a hearty and comforting dish that warms the heart and belly. It is perfect for busy days when you want to come home to a delicious meal. This recipe combines tender chunks of beef, fresh vegetables, and rich flavors, all slowly cooked together to create a perfect blend. With minimal effort, you can have a warm and filling dinner ready when you return home from a long day.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

There are many reasons to love this slow cooker beef stew recipe. First, it is easy to prepare. You can throw all the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do the work for you. The flavors develop beautifully over the cooking time, making the stew taste rich and warm.

Second, this dish is highly customizable. You can add your favorite vegetables, use different cuts of meat, or adjust the seasonings to suit your tastes.

Finally, this stew is great for meal planning. It can feed a family or provide leftovers for lunch the next day. Plus, it freezes well, allowing you to enjoy it later without any fuss.

HOW TO MAKE SLOW COOKER BEEF STEW

Making slow cooker beef stew is quite simple. Follow these steps, and you will have a wonderfully tasty meal.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

To make slow cooker beef stew, you will need the following equipment:

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Small bowl for mixing cornstarch

Ingredients You’ll Need :

• 2 1/2 lbs chuck roast, trimmed and diced
• 2 1/2 Tbsp olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 3 medium celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 3 cups low-sodium beef broth (divided)
• 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 Tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 Tbsp minced fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried)
• 1 sprig rosemary (or 3/4 tsp dried)
• 1 1/2 lbs yellow potatoes, diced
• 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
• 1 1/2 Tbsp cornstarch
• 1 1/2 cups frozen petite peas
• 1/4 cup minced fresh parsley

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1. Heat 1 Tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear half of the beef until browned, then transfer to a slow cooker. Repeat with remaining beef.

2. Add the remaining oil to the skillet and sauté onions and celery for 3 minutes. Then add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Stir in the tomato paste and cook, stirring for 1 minute.

3. Pour in 1 cup of beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, thyme, and rosemary into the skillet. Mix well.

4. Layer potatoes and carrots over the beef in the slow cooker. Then pour the broth mixture over the top along with the remaining beef broth. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

5. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours, allowing the flavors to mix.

6. In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch with 1 1/2 Tbsp cold water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker. Cook on high for 20-30 minutes until thickened.

7. Stir in peas and half of the parsley before serving. Garnish with remaining parsley.

HOW TO SERVE SLOW COOKER BEEF STEW

Serving slow cooker beef stew is simple. Ladle the stew into bowls and top with a sprinkle of parsley for a fresh flavor. This dish is fantastic on its own but is also great with warm bread or over a bed of fluffy rice.

You can serve it with a side salad for added crunch and freshness. Enjoy it with your family and friends for a cozy dinner!

STORAGE & FREEZING: SLOW COOKER BEEF STEW

If you have leftovers, you’re in luck! Slow cooker beef stew stores well in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool down before putting it in an airtight container. To freeze the stew, place it in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until it is hot throughout.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

There are several ways to enhance your slow cooker beef stew. You can serve it with:

• Crusty bread or rolls for dipping
• Mashed potatoes for a creamier texture
• A green salad for freshness
• Rice or noodles to soak up all the delicious broth

Each option adds something special to the meal!

VARIATIONS

This slow cooker beef stew is versatile. Here are some fun ways to change it up:

• Add Different Vegetables: You can include mushrooms, peas, or green beans for extra nutrition.
• Use Different Meats: Try using pork or chicken instead of beef for a different taste.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you like a little heat.
• Change the Herbs: Experiment with herbs like oregano or bay leaves to find your favorite taste.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
   Yes, you can use different cuts, but chuck roast is recommended for its tenderness and flavor. Other choices include brisket or round.

2. Can I cook this recipe on high?
   Yes, you can cook the stew for about 4-5 hours on high heat if you are short on time.

3. What can I serve with beef stew?
   Bread, rice, or a salad are great options to serve alongside beef stew. It pairs well with anything that can soak up the flavors.

4. Can I make this stew in advance?
   Absolutely! This stew reheats beautifully, making it a great meal to make ahead for busy days.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR SLOW COOKER BEEF STEW

To make your meal prep easier, you can do a few things ahead of time. Chop the vegetables and store them in the fridge. You can also brown the beef a day before and store it in the refrigerator. On the day you want to make the stew, just put everything in the slow cooker. This way, you’ll save time and still enjoy a homemade meal when you want it.

Slow cooker beef stew is a classic dish that is full of flavors and nutrients. It’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try!

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