This Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew is a warm hug in a bowl! It’s loaded with tender beef, hearty veggies like carrots and potatoes, and rich gravy that makes everything delicious.
I love how I can toss everything in the crock pot and let it do the work. Dinner smells amazing while I relax—no hovering over the stove needed! Who doesn’t enjoy that? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: Look for chuck roast or round beef for the best flavor and tenderness. If you’re short on time, pre-cut stew meat from the store works great too!
Carrots and Potatoes: Use any kind of carrots and Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes. If you need to avoid potatoes, try adding sweet potatoes or turnips.
Broth: Beef broth gives the stew its rich flavor. For a lighter option, chicken broth works well too; just remember it will change the taste slightly!
Spices: If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried ones will do just fine. You can also experiment with adding a pinch of paprika or a dash of hot sauce for a kick!
How Do You Brown the Beef Perfectly?
Browning the beef is key for flavor. It creates a nice crust that adds depth to your stew. Here are some simple steps to get it right:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the oil; it helps to achieve a good sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; give the meat space to brown. Do it in batches if needed!
- Let the beef sit without moving it for a couple of minutes to form that crispy crust.
Even if it’s not fully cooked through, that’s okay; it will finish cooking in the crock pot while absorbing all the flavors!
Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe for Beginners
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional, add near the end)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This wholesome beef stew takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then cooks for either 7-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high in the crock pot. It’s the perfect dish to set in the morning and come home to a warm, hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Beef:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. In a bowl, toss the beef cubes with flour, salt, and pepper until they’re coated. Work in batches to brown the beef in the hot skillet, about 5 minutes per batch, until all sides are golden. Transfer the browned beef to your crock pot.
2. Sautéing Onion and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until they’re fragrant and the onion is translucent. This step adds extra flavor, so be sure to scrape up any tasty bits stuck in the pan! Add this mixture to the crock pot with the beef.
3. Adding Vegetables and Broth:
Now, it’s time to load the crock pot with your veggies! Add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and bay leaves. Gently stir everything together to combine the flavors.
4. Cooking Time:
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours. The beef should be tender and the vegetables thoroughly cooked. Just relax and let the magic happen!
5. Finishing Touches:
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas if you’re using them. Remove the bay leaves before serving, and taste to adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish up your delicious beef stew while it’s hot! It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a warm and comforting meal. Enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Instead of Beef in This Stew?
Yes, you can! Substitute beef with boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts. Adjust the cooking time to 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high, as chicken cooks faster than beef.
What Can I Substitute for Beef Broth?
If you don’t have beef broth, you can use vegetable broth or chicken broth. Keep in mind that using chicken broth will result in a slightly different flavor but still delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover beef stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To freeze, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like green beans, celery, or parsnips. Just make sure to chop them into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly. Add quicker-cooking veggies, like peas, later in the cooking process as the recipe suggests.
