Beef stew has been enjoyed for centuries, with roots in European cooking where tougher cuts of meat were slowly simmered until tender. Over time, this hearty dish became a global comfort food, adapting to regional flavors and ingredients. With the invention of the slow cooker, beef stew became even more convenient, allowing home cooks to achieve rich, slow-simmered flavor without constant attention. It remains a family favorite, especially on chilly days when warm, nourishing meals are most comforting.
Slow Cooker Beef Stew:
This Slow Cooker Beef Stew combines tender beef chunks, carrots, potatoes, and celery in a savory broth that thickens as it cooks. The slow cooking process allows flavors to blend beautifully, creating a hearty and filling one-pot dish. With just a few minutes of preparation, the stew cooks on its own, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Served with crusty bread or over rice, it’s a timeless recipe that delivers comfort in every bite.
Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into cubes
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, diced
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp flour
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Toss beef cubes with flour, salt, and pepper.
- Heat oil in a skillet and sear beef until browned.
- Transfer beef to the slow cooker.
- Add carrots, potatoes, celery, and onion.
- Stir in broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaves.
- Cover and cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours.
- Remove bay leaves and adjust seasoning before serving.
Notes
- Chuck roast works best for tenderness.
- Searing meat adds depth of flavor.
- Cut vegetables into even sizes for even cooking.
- Add peas at the end for sweetness.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day.
Tips for Slow Cooker Beef:
- Use cornstarch slurry if you want thicker stew.
- Add red wine for a richer flavor profile.
- Swap potatoes with sweet potatoes for a twist.
- Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels.
- Freeze portions for easy future meals.
FAQ’s for Cooker Beef:
Q: Can I skip searing the beef?
A: Yes, but browning adds more flavor.
Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Yes, parsnips, turnips, or mushrooms work great.
Q: How do I thicken the stew?
A: Mix cornstarch with water and stir in before serving.
Q: Can I cook this overnight?
A: Yes, set it on low and refrigerate in the morning.
Q: How long will leftovers last?
A: Up to 4 days in the fridge or 3 months in the freezer.
Conclusion:
Slow Cooker Beef Stew is a timeless comfort food that delivers rich flavor and hearty nourishment with minimal effort. Perfect for busy days or cozy nights, this one-pot dish fills your home with irresistible aroma while creating a meal the whole family will love.