This beef stew is a warm hug in a bowl! Made with tender beef, hearty potatoes, and delicious veggies, it simmers in a crock pot, filling your kitchen with a cozy aroma.
I love how easy it is to throw everything in the pot and let it do its magic. Perfect for when you want to relax after a long day! Plus, leftovers taste even better! 🥘
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: Use chuck roast or brisket for this recipe. These cuts are ideal because they become tender during slow cooking. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use sirloin, just be cautious as it can be less tender.
Carrots: Fresh carrots are a must for sweetness and color. If you don’t have them, frozen carrots work too. You can also substitute with parsnips for a different flavor.
Potatoes: I recommend using Yukon Gold or russet potatoes since they hold their shape well. If you’re avoiding potatoes, try using sweet potatoes or rutabaga as a substitute.
Red Wine: This adds depth, but if you prefer not to use wine, you can replace it with additional beef broth or grape juice for a touch of sweetness.
Herbs: If you don’t have dried thyme or rosemary, Italian seasoning can be a good substitute. Fresh herbs will enhance the flavor too, just double the amount.
How Do I Get the Beef Perfectly Tender?
The secret to tender beef in your stew is to really let it cook slowly. Browning the beef first adds flavor and enhances the texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Coat the beef in flour, as it helps with browning and thickening the stew.
- Use high heat to sear the beef for about 5 minutes. Don’t crowd the pan – cook in batches if necessary.
- Once browned, place the beef in the crock pot with vegetables and broth. Low and slow, my friend!
Patience is key here; the longer it cooks, the better the flavor and tenderness will be!
Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew for Cozy Dinners
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Stew:
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For The Liquid:
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
For Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Thickening:
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
You will need about 15-20 minutes for preparation, and then let the crock pot do the work! Cook on low heat for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, making this a great set-it-and-forget-it meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
Start by tossing the beef cubes in a large bowl with flour, salt, and pepper until every piece is evenly coated. This helps to thicken the stew later and gives the beef a nice crust when browning.
2. Brown the Beef:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef to the skillet and brown it on all sides for about 5 minutes. This step adds a lot of flavor! Once browned, transfer the beef to the crock pot.
3. Add the Vegetables:
In the crock pot, layer in your carrots, potatoes, onion, and garlic. Don’t skip the garlic; it adds great flavor! Mix these veggies around a bit to distribute them evenly.
4. Combine the Liquids:
Pour the beef broth and red wine (if you’re using it) into the crock pot over the beef and veggies. Add the tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves, then stir gently to combine everything.
5. Cook It Low and Slow:
Cover the crock pot and let it cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the beef is super tender and the vegetables are soft.
6. Finish It Off:
Before serving, take out the bay leaves. They won’t taste good, so it’s best to remove them! Give the stew a good stir and taste to adjust the seasoning if needed.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color, and serve your cozy beef stew hot with some crusty bread on the side. Enjoy every warm, delicious bite!
FAQ About Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Recipe?
While it’s best to use thawed, fresh beef for even cooking, you can use frozen beef if you need to! Just increase the cooking time by about an hour on low or 30 minutes on high to ensure it cooks thoroughly.
What Can I Substitute for the Red Wine?
If you prefer not to use red wine, simply replace it with an equal amount of additional beef broth or grape juice for a slight sweetness. Both will add richness to your stew without the alcohol.
How Do I Thicken the Stew If It’s Too Watery?
If you find your stew is a bit watery after cooking, you can thicken it by mixing 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry. Stir it into the stew and let it cook for an additional 20-30 minutes on high until thickened.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!
