This easy crock pot beef stew is the perfect dish for a warm and cozy dinner! With tender beef, hearty veggies, and a rich broth, it’s a hug in a bowl.
Just toss everything in the pot and let it cook low and slow. I can’t wait for those delicious smells to fill my home—it makes waiting totally worth it!
You can serve it with some crusty bread to soak up all that tasty goodness. Trust me, you’ll want extra servings of this comforting stew!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck: This cut is great for stews due to its tenderness after slow cooking. If you prefer, you can use round roast or brisket in a pinch!
Beef Broth: I recommend using a low-sodium option for better control over salt levels. You could also use chicken broth for a lighter flavor.
Vegetables: Carrots, potatoes, and celery offer wonderful texture. Feel free to swap out potatoes for sweet potatoes or add in parsnips for a twist!
Herbs: The thyme and rosemary add delicious aroma. If fresh herbs are available, they can be used instead—just double the amount!
Flour: This helps thicken the stew. You can substitute it with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour mix to cater to dietary needs.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Tender Beef in My Stew?
Tender beef is essential for a great stew. First, browning the beef seals in flavor and creates depth. Here’s how:
- Make sure your oil is hot before adding the beef. This helps to create a nice crust.
- Cook the beef in batches if your skillet is small; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of browning.
- Low and slow cooking is key. The longer the beef simmers in the crock pot, the more tender it becomes.
Remember to check that the beef reaches a tender state after cooking! If it’s not as tender as you’d like, it can just use a bit more time.
Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas (added near the end)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty beef stew takes approximately 10-15 minutes to prep and then cooks in the crock pot for 7-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Perfect for setting up in the morning and coming home to a tasty dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
Start by tossing the beef cubes with the flour, salt, and pepper in a bowl until they are all evenly coated. This helps thicken the stew.
2. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the coated beef cubes and brown them on all sides, about 5 minutes. Once browned, transfer the beef into your crock pot.
3. Add the Vegetables:
Now, it’s time to add the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, diced potatoes, and sliced celery directly into the crock pot with the beef.
4. Mix in the Broth and Seasonings:
Pour in the beef broth, then add the tomato paste, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and bay leaves. Stir everything together until well combined.
5. Cook the Stew:
Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You want the beef to be tender and the vegetables to be cooked through.
6. Add the Peas:
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the frozen peas for a pop of color and sweetness.
7. Final Touches:
After cooking, remove the bay leaves and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if desired.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a nice touch. Serve your cozy beef stew hot, alongside crusty bread or over creamy mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal!
FAQ for Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Recipe?
While it’s best to use fresh beef for optimal browning, you can use frozen beef. Just make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight before preparing to ensure even cooking and to avoid excess moisture.
How Do I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
You can easily make this stew gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. If using cornstarch, add it during the last hour of cooking by mixing it with a little cold water before stirring it into the stew.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative by adding your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or green beans. Just keep in mind that some veggies may cook faster than others, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if the stew thickens too much. You can also freeze the stew for up to 3 months!
