This Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew is a heartwarming meal perfect for cozy dinners. With tender beef, carrots, potatoes, and a rich broth, it’s a big hug in a bowl!
What I love most is how simple it is to prepare. Just toss everything in the crock pot and let it do the magic while you enjoy your day. Comfort food made easy! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: Use chuck roast or round steak, as they become tender after slow cooking. For a leaner option, consider using sirloin, but it may not be as flavorful.
Carrots: Fresh carrots are best, but you can use frozen if needed. They are convenient and cut down prep time.
Potatoes: Russets offer great texture, but you could substitute with Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a creamier result.
Red Wine: This adds depth to the stew, but you can skip it or use grape juice for a non-alcoholic version, adding more beef broth instead.
Tomato Paste: This enhances flavor, but if you don’t have any, try crushed tomatoes or a bit of ketchup as an alternative.
How Do I Make Sure My Stew Isn’t Watery?
One common struggle with stews is ending up with a broth that’s too thin. To avoid this, it’s key to properly thicken the stew.
- Make a slurry by mixing flour with a little water before adding it to the stew. This helps distribute the flour without clumping.
- Let the stew simmer after adding the slurry for at least 30 minutes. This allows it to thicken nicely.
- If you prefer a thicker stew, increase the flour slightly next time or reduce the amount of liquid you use initially.
Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe for Cozy Dinners
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Ingredients:
- 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
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Broth and Seasoning:
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with more beef broth)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other Ingredients:
- 1 cup frozen peas (added near end of cooking)
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty meal takes about 15 minutes to prep and 7-8 hours to cook on low (3-4 hours on high). So you can set it up in the morning and come home to a delicious, cozy dinner waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef cubes and sear them nicely on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. This helps develop a rich flavor. Once browned, carefully transfer the beef to the crock pot.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In the same skillet, toss in the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they are softened and fragrant. Spoon this mix into the crock pot with the beef.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add the carrots, potatoes, beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, salt, and pepper into the crock pot. Give it a good stir to combine everything well.
4. 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’ll know it’s ready when the beef and vegetables are nice and tender.
5. Thicken the Broth:
About 30 minutes before you plan to serve, mix the flour with a small amount of water in a separate bowl to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the stew to help thicken the broth.
6. Add the Peas:
Next, add the frozen peas to the stew, cover again, and let it cook for the remaining 30 minutes until heated through.
7. Final Touches:
Before serving, don’t forget to remove the bay leaves. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a nice finishing touch.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious beef stew hot, maybe with some crusty bread or over a bed of rice for an extra comforting meal. Enjoy every spoonful!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen beef, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. Thaw the beef in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method by sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for a few hours.
What Can I Substitute for Red Wine?
If you prefer not to use red wine, feel free to omit it entirely or replace it with an equal amount of beef broth or grape juice for a similar depth of flavor.
How to Store Leftover Beef Stew?
Leftover beef stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I Make This Stew Without Potatoes?
Absolutely! If you want to skip potatoes, you can add more carrots or even include other root vegetables like parsnips or turnips instead. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly if you change the vegetable types.
