Slow Cooker Beef Stew

There’s nothing quite like a hearty bowl of slow-cooked beef stew on a chilly evening. This dish is filled with tender chunks of beef, perfectly cooked vegetables, and a broth that’s rich in flavor from hours of slow cooking. With minimal prep and the convenience of a slow cooker, it’s an easy meal to set and forget. Whether you’re preparing for a family dinner or simply want to enjoy leftovers throughout the week, this slow cooker beef stew is the ultimate comfort food. The combination of beef, potatoes, carrots, and peas offers a wholesome, nutritious meal that will satisfy even the heartiest of appetites. Perfect for cozy nights in or meal prepping for the week ahead, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 carrots, sliced
• 3 potatoes, diced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional)
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tsp fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
• 1 cup peas (frozen or fresh)

Directions:

1. In a bowl, toss the beef cubes with flour, salt, pepper, and paprika to coat evenly.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the beef on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Transfer the beef to a slow cooker. In the same skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened, about 3 minutes, then add to the slow cooker.
4. Add the carrots, potatoes, beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, bay leaf, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
5. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef and vegetables are tender.
6. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the peas. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 7 hours | Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes

Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

Why Slow Cooker Beef Stew is the Ultimate Comfort Food

Slow Cooker Beef Stew is a classic recipe that has stood the test of time, not only because of its delicious, hearty flavors but also because of the sheer convenience it offers. The origins of beef stew date back centuries, with nearly every culture having its own version of slow-cooked meat and vegetables. In the U.S., beef stew became particularly popular in the mid-20th century, when crock pots (or slow cookers) became a kitchen staple. Today, it remains a go-to meal for busy families, home cooks, and those who love to enjoy a wholesome, comforting meal without spending hours at the stove.

The Health Benefits of Beef Stew

This Slow Cooker Beef Stew isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with nutritional benefits:

1. Rich in Protein: Beef is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall body function. Each serving of this stew offers a substantial amount of protein, making it perfect for those looking to maintain or build muscle mass.
2. Full of Nutrients: The vegetables in this stew, like carrots, potatoes, and peas, are rich in vitamins and minerals. Carrots are high in beta-carotene, an antioxidant that is converted into Vitamin A in the body, supporting eye health. Potatoes provide a healthy dose of Vitamin C and potassium, which help in regulating blood pressure, while peas are a great source of dietary fiber.
3. Low in Fat: Although beef is often considered high in fat, using lean cuts like beef chuck reduces the overall fat content. This recipe also calls for browning the beef in just a tablespoon of olive oil, keeping the fat level moderate while still delivering plenty of flavor.
4. Balanced Meal: This stew is a perfect example of a balanced meal. It contains protein from the beef, complex carbohydrates from the potatoes, and plenty of fiber and vitamins from the vegetables. Together, they create a meal that will keep you full and satisfied for hours.

Why Slow Cooking Makes the Best Stew

One of the key reasons why slow-cooked beef stew is so beloved is the unique way the slow cooker enhances the flavor and texture of the ingredients. Here’s why using a slow cooker makes a difference:

• Tender Beef: Slow cooking allows tougher cuts of beef, like chuck, to become tender and juicy over time. The collagen in the meat breaks down during the slow cooking process, resulting in soft, melt-in-your-mouth beef that’s full of flavor.
• Enhanced Flavor: Slow cooking allows the flavors to develop over time. As the stew cooks, the beef, vegetables, herbs, and seasonings infuse together, creating a rich and deep taste that’s hard to achieve with quicker cooking methods. The longer cooking time also helps to reduce the wine and beef broth, resulting in a concentrated, flavorful broth that perfectly complements the tender beef and vegetables.
• Hands-Off Cooking: One of the best parts of using a slow cooker is the convenience. After a little bit of prep work, you simply set the slow cooker and let it do its thing for several hours. This hands-off cooking method makes it ideal for busy families, working professionals, or anyone who doesn’t want to spend their entire day in the kitchen. You can go about your day while your stew slowly cooks to perfection.

Tips for Making the Perfect Beef Stew

Although this recipe is incredibly simple, a few tips can help elevate it to the next level:

1. Use Quality Beef: For the best results, choose a well-marbled cut of beef like chuck roast. The fat content in chuck helps to keep the meat moist during the long cooking process. Avoid using leaner cuts, as they may dry out during cooking.
2. Brown the Meat First: Although you could skip browning the meat and simply add it directly to the slow cooker, taking the extra step to sear the beef in a hot skillet adds a depth of flavor to the stew. The browned bits that stick to the bottom of the pan (called fond) contribute a rich, savory flavor to the broth.
3. Don’t Skimp on Herbs: Fresh thyme and bay leaves provide the stew with a delicious earthy aroma. You can also experiment with other herbs like rosemary or parsley to add your own twist.
4. Add Vegetables in Stages: If you prefer your vegetables to have a bit more texture, consider adding them halfway through the cooking time instead of at the beginning. This will prevent them from becoming too soft and mushy.
5. Deglaze the Pan: After browning the meat and sautéing the onions and garlic, use some of the beef broth or wine to deglaze the pan. This means pouring the liquid into the hot pan to scrape up any browned bits left behind from the meat and onions. These little bits add incredible flavor to the stew.

Slow Cooker Beef Stew: Perfect for Any Occasion

Beef stew is the ideal dish for many occasions. It’s hearty enough to serve as a satisfying meal during the cold winter months but light enough to enjoy year-round. Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner, preparing a meal for a potluck, or planning to meal prep for the week ahead, this recipe is a fantastic choice.

• Great for Busy Weeknights: With its hands-off cooking method, you can come home after a long day of work to the comforting aroma of a ready-to-eat meal. Just set the slow cooker in the morning, and by dinner time, you’ll have a warm, satisfying meal waiting for you.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Slow Cooker Beef Stew makes excellent leftovers. The flavors only improve after a day or two, making it an ideal meal prep option. You can store it in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. It’s great for reheating when you need a quick lunch or dinner.
• Customizable: Another advantage of this recipe is how versatile it is. You can swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. Sweet potatoes, parsnips, and mushrooms make excellent additions. If you prefer a thicker broth, you can mash some of the potatoes directly in the stew or add a slurry of flour and water during the last hour of cooking.

Why This Slow Cooker Beef Stew Stands Out

Compared to other stew recipes, this version stands out because of its perfect balance of flavors, textures, and convenience. The combination of beef, red wine (optional but highly recommended), and a mix of fresh herbs gives it a robust and hearty flavor that will impress any guest. The addition of peas toward the end of cooking adds a pop of color and sweetness, making it visually appealing as well as delicious.

Furthermore, using a slow cooker ensures that you don’t need to stand over the stove for hours. It’s a no-fuss recipe that allows you to go about your day while the slow cooker works its magic.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Beef Stew is a timeless recipe that delivers rich flavors, tender meat, and a comforting experience with minimal effort. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy a nutritious, hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With its versatility, nutritional benefits, and convenience, it’s no wonder this stew remains a favorite for families and food lovers everywhere.