Looking for a hearty, flavorful meal that’s perfect for those cozy nights? This Slow Cooker Beef Stew is loaded with tender beef, golden potatoes, carrots, peas, onions, garlic, and a rich beef broth. It’s the ultimate comfort food, bringing warmth and satisfaction to your table with minimal effort. Whether you serve it with warm biscuits, cornbread, or even over mashed potatoes, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 carrots, chopped
- 1 lb Yukon Gold potatoes, cubed
- 1 cup beef broth (substitute for wine)
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 rosemary sprig
- 1 cup peas (added last)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1/4 cup cold water (for thickening)
How to Prepare Slow Cooker Beef Stew
- Prepare the Beef: Season the beef cubes with salt, pepper, garlic salt, and celery salt. Coat them lightly with flour.
- Sear the Beef: In a large skillet, melt 1 tbsp of butter and sear the beef cubes on all sides, about 45 seconds per side, until they have a golden-brown crust. Transfer the seared beef to the slow cooker.
- Cook the Aromatics: In the same skillet, sauté the onions and garlic, scraping up any browned bits left from the beef. Add a splash of beef broth to help deglaze the pan, if needed. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker.
- Assemble the Stew: Add the chopped carrots, potatoes, bay leaves, and rosemary to the slow cooker. Pour in the remaining beef broth and red wine vinegar. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours until the beef is tender and the vegetables are soft.
- Finish with Peas: In the last 15 minutes of cooking, stir in the peas. To thicken the stew, mix the cornstarch with cold water and slowly stir it into the broth.
- Serve: Turn off the slow cooker, remove the bay leaves and rosemary sprig, and serve your Slow Cooker Beef Stew with your favorite side like biscuits or cornbread.
Pro Tips
- Best Cuts of Beef: Chuck roast is the best option for beef stew, thanks to its tender, flavorful result after slow cooking. You can also use rump roast or bottom round if needed.
- Potatoes for Stew: Yukon Gold and Red potatoes hold up best in stews because of their lower starch content, unlike russet potatoes, which can break down.
- No Time to Sear? If you’re short on time, you can skip the searing step. Simply toss the beef cubes in flour and add them directly to the slow cooker along with the onions and garlic.
- Red Wine Substitute: Instead of wine, you can use beef broth with a tablespoon of red wine vinegar for acidity. This combination will tenderize the beef and add depth of flavor.
- Irish Twist: For an Irish variation, replace the broth with 1 cup of extra stout Guinness.
- Butter Finish: Stir in 2 tablespoons of cold butter just before serving for a smooth, velvety finish—a chef’s secret known as “Monter au beurre.”
FAQs
- Can I use a different type of meat for this stew?
Yes, you can substitute beef with lamb or chicken. Lamb will add a rich, earthy flavor, while chicken offers a lighter alternative. - Do I have to sear the meat before slow cooking?
Searing the meat adds depth of flavor, but it’s not mandatory. You can skip this step if you’re in a hurry, though you may lose some richness in the final dish. - What’s the best way to thicken the stew?
The best way to thicken your stew is by mixing cornstarch with cold water and stirring it into the broth. It will thicken as it stands. - How long can I store the leftovers?
You can store leftover Slow Cooker Beef Stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Beef Stew is a must-try recipe, especially during the cooler months of Fall and Winter. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s a dish that’s perfect for family dinners or make-ahead meals. The beef becomes tender and juicy as it slowly cooks, while the potatoes and vegetables soak up the flavorful broth. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight meal or a dish to impress your guests, Slow Cooker Beef Stew is sure to deliver every time.