Slow Cooker Beef Stew

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, this Slow Cooker Beef Stew is a must-try! Packed with tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth, it’s the perfect dish to warm you up on chilly days. Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it work its magic!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hands-Off Cooking: The slow cooker does all the work!
• Rich & Hearty: Loaded with tender beef, potatoes, and carrots in a flavorful broth.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Makes great leftovers and freezes well.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Beef Chuck Roast (2 lbs, cut into 1-inch cubes) – Becomes fork-tender after slow cooking.
• Potatoes (3 medium, diced) – Russet or Yukon Gold work best.
• Carrots (3, sliced into chunks) – Adds natural sweetness.
• Celery (2 stalks, chopped) – Enhances the flavor.
• Onion (1 large, diced) – Brings depth and sweetness.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – A must for rich flavor.
• Tomato Paste (2 tbsp) – Adds richness to the broth.
• Beef Broth (4 cups) – The base of the stew.
• Worcestershire Sauce (1 tbsp) – Adds a hint of umami.
• Soy Sauce (1 tbsp) – Deepens the flavor.
• Bay Leaves (2) – Infuses the stew with warmth.
• Thyme (1 tsp, dried) – Classic herb for stews.
• Paprika (1 tsp, smoked or regular) – Adds subtle warmth.
• Salt & Black Pepper (to taste) – Essential seasoning.
• Flour (¼ cup, for coating beef) – Helps thicken the stew.
• Olive Oil (2 tbsp) – For searing the beef.
• Cornstarch (2 tbsp, optional, mixed with ¼ cup water) – For a thicker stew.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet (for searing the beef)
• Slow cooker (5-6 quart)
• Wooden spoon
• Ladle

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Step 1: Sear the Beef

In a bowl, toss the beef cubes with flour, salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef on all sides until browned (about 3-4 minutes per side). Transfer to the slow cooker.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables & Seasonings

Add potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, thyme, paprika, and bay leaves.

Step 3: Pour in the Broth

Pour the beef broth over everything, ensuring all ingredients are submerged. Give it a quick stir.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are soft.

Step 5: Thicken the Stew (Optional)

If you prefer a thicker stew, mix cornstarch with ¼ cup of water and stir it into the slow cooker. Let it cook for an additional 15 minutes until thickened.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Remove bay leaves and serve hot. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy with crusty bread!

What to Serve with Beef Stew

• Crusty Bread – Perfect for soaking up the rich broth.
• Mashed Potatoes – Extra creamy and comforting.
• Side Salad – Adds a fresh, crisp contrast.

Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Beef Stew

• Use the Right Cut: Chuck roast is best for slow cooking because it becomes super tender.
• Brown the Beef: Don’t skip searing—it adds depth to the flavor!
• Layer Ingredients Properly: Place the beef at the bottom so it stays juicy and tender.
• Thicker Stew? Use cornstarch slurry or mash some potatoes into the broth.

Storing & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Freeze for up to 3 months in a sealed container.
• Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this without a slow cooker?
Yes! Simmer it on the stovetop over low heat for 2–3 hours or bake in a covered Dutch oven at 325°F (163°C) for about 2.5 hours.

Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Mushrooms, peas, or green beans work well. Add peas in the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! You can use turkey, chicken, or even lamb, but the cooking time may vary.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Beef Stew is an easy, flavorful, and cozy meal that’s perfect for busy days. Let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy a rich, hearty dish that tastes even better the next day!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 8 hours (slow cooker)
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 380 | Protein: 35g | Carbohydrates: 28g | Fat: 14g | Fiber: 4g | Sodium: 750mg

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