Crockpot Beef Stew is a classic comfort food that is perfect for chilly days. This dish combines tender chunks of beef with hearty vegetables and a rich, flavorful broth. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop beautifully, making it a convenient and satisfying meal for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Stew:
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for browning)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup potatoes, diced (Yukon gold or red potatoes work well)
- 1 cup celery, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup frozen peas (added at the end)
For Thickening (Optional):
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
Timing
Preparing Crockpot Beef Stew takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 8-10 hours of cooking time on low or 4-6 hours on high. Total time is approximately 8-10 hours and 15 minutes.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
- Pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Brown the Beef (Optional)
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the beef cubes in batches for about 3-4 minutes on each side until browned. This step enhances the flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
Step 3: Add Ingredients to the Crockpot
- Place the browned (or raw) beef in the crockpot. Add the carrots, potatoes, celery, onion, and garlic.
- Stir in the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Mix everything well to combine.
Step 4: Cook the Stew
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours until the beef is tender and the flavors are well combined.
Step 5: Thicken the Stew (Optional)
- If you prefer a thicker stew, combine cornstarch and water in a small bowl. Stir the mixture into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Allow it to thicken.
Step 6: Add Peas and Serve
- Stir in the frozen peas about 15 minutes before serving.
- Ladle the stew into bowls and enjoy with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Crockpot Beef Stew (per serving, makes about 6 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 30g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fiber | 4g |
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
- Use lean cuts of beef, such as sirloin or round, to reduce fat content.
- Increase the amount of vegetables, such as adding bell peppers or green beans.
- Use low-sodium beef broth to control salt levels.
Serving Suggestions
- Crusty bread or rolls for dipping.
- A side salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the delicious broth.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Ensure your crockpot is not overcrowded; the ingredients should fit comfortably for even cooking.
- While optional, browning the beef enhances the flavor, so consider doing it if you have time.
- Make sure you have enough broth to cover the ingredients; this prevents burning and ensures a flavorful stew.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Crockpot Beef Stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. The stew can also be frozen for up to 3 months; however, the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
Conclusion
In just about 15 minutes of prep and several hours of slow cooking, you can create a hearty and flavorful Crockpot Beef Stew that’s perfect for any occasion. This dish is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients, making it a wonderful addition to your meal repertoire!
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat?
Yes! You can use other cuts of meat such as pork or chicken, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I make the stew ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stew a day in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, parsnips, or green beans.
How can I make it spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the stew for extra heat.
Crockpot Beef Stew: A Hearty Comfort Food
Ingredients
- For the Stew:
- • 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- • Salt and pepper to taste
- • 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for browning)
- • 4 cups beef broth
- • 1 cup carrots, sliced
- • 1 cup potatoes, diced (Yukon gold or red potatoes work well)
- • 1 cup celery, sliced
- • 1 medium onion, chopped
- • 3 cloves garlic, minced
- • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- • 1 bay leaf
- • 1 cup frozen peas (added at the end)
- For Thickening (Optional):
- • 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef: Pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Brown the Beef (Optional): In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the beef cubes in batches for about 3-4 minutes on each side until browned. This step enhances the flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
- Add Ingredients to the Crockpot: Place the browned (or raw) beef in the crockpot. Add the carrots, potatoes, celery, onion, and garlic. Stir in the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Mix everything well to combine.
- Cook the Stew: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours until the beef is tender and the flavors are well combined.
- Thicken the Stew (Optional): If you prefer a thicker stew, combine cornstarch and water in a small bowl. Stir the mixture into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Allow it to thicken.
- Add Peas and Serve: Stir in the frozen peas about 15 minutes before serving. Ladle the stew into bowls and enjoy with crusty bread or over rice.
