Slow Cooker Beef Stew
This Slow Cooker Beef Stew is the perfect comfort food for chilly evenings. Packed with tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and a rich broth, it’s not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply enjoying a quiet night in, this stew will warm your heart and fill your home with delightful aromas. It’s an ideal recipe for those cozy Fall and Winter days when you crave something hearty and delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and Filling: This stew provides a complete meal in one bowl, making it perfect for hungry appetites.
- Easy to Prepare: Simply toss the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the work while you enjoy your day.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of red wine and beef broth creates a deep, satisfying flavor profile that enhances every bite.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; it tastes even better the next day!
Tools and Preparation
To make this Slow Cooker Beef Stew efficiently, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures that the cooking process is smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Large skillet
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Silicone spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: The heart of this recipe, it allows for low-and-slow cooking that makes meat tender and flavors meld beautifully.
- Large skillet: Perfect for browning meat before adding it to the slow cooker, enhancing flavor through caramelization.
- Silicone spatula: Great for scraping up browned bits from the skillet which adds depth to the stew.
Ingredients
This traditional Beef Stew is loaded with tender bites of juicy beef, golden potatoes, carrots, peas, red wine, onions, garlic, and a hearty beef broth. It’s the BEST Slow Cooker recipe for Fall and Winter.
- 2 ½ pounds stew meat (see notes)
- ½ teaspoon EACH: black pepper, garlic salt, celery salt
- 1/4 cup flour
- 3-6 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons cold butter (divided)
- 2 cups yellow onions (diced)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup cabernet sauvignon (or merlot. See notes.)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 beef bouillon cubes
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 5 medium carrots (cut into 1-inch chunks)
- 1 lb. baby Yukon gold potatoes (halved or quartered)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 sprig rosemary
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/4 cup Cold Water + 3 tablespoons Corn Starch (Optional)
- 2-3 drops Gravy Master (Optional– Adds a richer, darker color.)
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Step 1: Prepare the Meat
Cut meat into 1-inch cubes, discarding any large pieces of fat. Fat marbleized into the meat is fine!
Step 2: Season and Flour the Beef
Sprinkle beef with black pepper, garlic salt, and celery salt. Toss to coat evenly. Sprinkle flour over the meat and toss again until well coated.
Step 3: Brown the Meat
Heat 3 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meat in batches; don’t overcrowd the pan. Brown on each side for about 45 seconds. Add more oil if needed. Transfer browned meat to slow cooker.
Step 4: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Reduce heat to medium and melt 1 tablespoon of butter in the same skillet. Add diced onions and cook for about five minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Add a splash of wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any brown bits with a silicone spatula for extra flavor. Transfer this mixture along with remaining wine to slow cooker.
Step 5: Combine Remaining Ingredients
Add all remaining ingredients except frozen peas, corn starch mixture, and two tablespoons of cold butter into the slow cooker.
Step 6: Cook Low or High
Cook on low for approximately seven and a half to eight hours or on high for three and a half to four hours until vegetables are softened and potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 7: Add Peas
During the last fifteen minutes of cooking, add in frozen peas. Remove bay leaves and rosemary stem before serving.
Step 8: Optional Thickening
If you prefer a thicker stew, combine a quarter cup of cold water with three tablespoons of cornstarch in a small bowl. Gradually add this mixture to the stew while stirring continuously until well incorporated.
Step 9: Finish with Butter
Turn off heat when cooking is complete. Swirl in two tablespoons of cold butter for a smooth finish known as Monter au Beurre. Optionally add three drops of Gravy Master for deeper color.
Enjoy your homemade Slow Cooker Beef Stew!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Slow Cooker Beef Stew is a comforting dish that warms you from the inside out. Serving it correctly can enhance the experience and make it even more delightful for your family and friends.
With Crusty Bread
- Serve slices of fresh baguette or sourdough alongside the stew. The crusty texture pairs perfectly with the rich broth.
Over Mashed Potatoes
- Spoon the beef stew over creamy mashed potatoes. This combination adds a creamy, buttery flavor that complements the hearty stew.
With Rice
- Serve Slow Cooker Beef Stew over fluffy white or brown rice. This option absorbs the flavors of the broth, making every bite delicious.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Garnish individual bowls of stew with chopped parsley or thyme. Fresh herbs add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
In a Bread Bowl
- For a fun twist, serve the stew in hollowed-out bread bowls. This makes for an impressive presentation and offers a tasty way to enjoy every last drop.
With Salad
- Pair your stew with a light green salad. A simple mix of greens, cucumbers, and vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the meal.
How to Perfect Slow Cooker Beef Stew
To achieve the best results with your Slow Cooker Beef Stew, consider these helpful tips that will elevate your cooking game.
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Choose Quality Meat: Use well-marbled beef chuck for tenderness and flavor. This cut breaks down beautifully during slow cooking.
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Brown Your Meat: Searing the meat before adding it to the slow cooker enhances its flavor through caramelization.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will give your stew a vibrant taste compared to their dried counterparts.
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Don’t Skip the Wine: Adding wine deepens the flavor profile of your stew, creating complexity that’s hard to resist.
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Adjust Thickness Carefully: If you prefer a thicker stew, add cornstarch gradually to avoid lumps. Stir continuously for smoothness.
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Let It Rest: Allowing the stew to sit for 30 minutes before serving helps meld flavors together beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Beef Stew can elevate your meal even further. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping into the rich broth; it’s an easy favorite that everyone loves.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or squash provide additional nutrients and textures.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and acidity that cuts through the savory richness of the stew.
- Steamed Green Beans: Bright green beans add color to your plate and are simple to prepare with minimal seasoning.
- Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes can be topped with butter and chives as a hearty complement to your beef stew.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is an excellent choice that pairs well with savory dishes like beef stew, providing a delightful contrast.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many home cooks make simple mistakes that can affect the quality of their Slow Cooker Beef Stew. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Not Browning the Meat: Skipping the browning step can lead to a less flavorful stew. Always brown the meat first to develop rich flavors.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Adding too much meat at once can lower the pan’s temperature and prevent proper browning. Cook in batches for the best results.
- Using Low-Quality Broth: Poor quality beef broth can diminish the overall taste. Use homemade or high-quality store-bought broth for better flavor.
- Ignoring Cooking Times: Cooking for too short or too long can result in tough meat or mushy vegetables. Stick to recommended cooking times for optimal texture.
- Forgetting Seasonings: Not seasoning adequately can lead to bland stew. Taste and adjust seasonings throughout cooking for a well-rounded flavor.
- Neglecting to Thicken: If you prefer a thicker stew, failing to add a cornstarch mixture can leave your dish soupy. Use cornstarch towards the end for desired thickness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Let it cool before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezing Slow Cooker Beef Stew
- Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
- Label containers with dates for easy tracking.
Reheating Slow Cooker Beef Stew
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warmed through, about 30 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls, covering loosely. Heat in intervals, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Place in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated thoroughly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Slow Cooker Beef Stew.
Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can substitute beef with lamb or chicken, but remember that cooking times may vary based on the type of meat used.
How do I know when my Slow Cooker Beef Stew is done?
The stew is ready when the vegetables are soft and fork-tender, typically after 7½ to 8 hours on low or 3½ to 4 hours on high.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your stew by adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms based on your preference.
What kind of wine should I use?
Cabernet Sauvignon is a great choice, but Merlot works well too. Both enhance the flavor beautifully without overpowering the dish.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This slow cooker recipe makes excellent leftovers, perfect for meal prep and reheating during busy weeks.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Beef Stew is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices. Give this wonderful recipe a try, and enjoy a heartwarming dish ideal for chilly days!
Slow Cooker Beef Stew
- Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Slow Cooker Beef Stew is the ultimate comfort food for those chilly evenings. This hearty dish combines tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, savory broth, making it a perfect meal for family gatherings or quiet nights in. With minimal preparation, this stew cooks slowly to develop deep flavors that warm your heart and fill your home with delightful aromas. Ideal for cozy Fall and Winter days, it’s a satisfying one-pot meal that promises leftovers even tastier the next day.
Ingredients
- 2 ½ pounds stew meat
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic salt
- ½ teaspoon celery salt
- 1/4 cup flour
- 3–6 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons cold butter (divided)
- 2 cups yellow onions (diced)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 beef bouillon cubes
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 5 medium carrots (cut into 1-inch chunks)
- 1 lb baby Yukon gold potatoes (halved or quartered)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 sprig rosemary
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/4 cup cold water + 3 tablespoons corn starch (optional)
- 2–3 drops Gravy Master (optional)
Instructions
- Cut meat into 1-inch cubes, discarding any large pieces of fat.
- Sprinkle beef with black pepper, garlic salt, and celery salt. Toss to coat evenly. Sprinkle flour over the meat and toss again until well coated.
- Heat 3 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meat in batches; don't overcrowd the pan. Brown on each side for about 45 seconds. Add more oil if needed. Transfer browned meat to slow cooker.
- Reduce heat to medium and melt 1 tablespoon of butter in the same skillet. Add diced onions and cook for about five minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Add a splash of wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any brown bits with a silicone spatula for extra flavor. Transfer this mixture along with remaining wine to slow cooker.
- Add all remaining ingredients except frozen peas, corn starch mixture, and two tablespoons of cold butter into the slow cooker.
- Cook on low for approximately seven and a half to eight hours or on high for three and a half to four hours until vegetables are softened and potatoes are fork-tender.
- During the last fifteen minutes of cooking, add in frozen peas. Remove bay leaves and rosemary stem before serving.
- If you prefer a thicker stew, combine a quarter cup of cold water with three tablespoons of corn starch in a small bowl. Gradually add this mixture to the stew while stirring continuously until well incorporated.
- Turn off heat when cooking is complete. Swirl in two tablespoons of cold butter for a smooth finish known as 'Monter au Beurre.' Optionally add three drops of Gravy Master for deeper color.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
