Why Make This Recipe
Slow Cooker Beef Stew is a classic comfort food loved by many. It creates a warm and hearty meal that is perfect for chilly days. The best part? You can set it up in the morning and come home to a delicious, ready-to-eat dinner. This recipe is simple, makes use of affordable ingredients, and is packed with flavors that the whole family will enjoy.
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Ingredients
- 2 pounds stew meat
- 4 cups beef broth
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 4 potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons flour (optional for thickening)
Directions
- In a slow cooker, combine the stew meat, carrots, potatoes, onion, and garlic.
- Pour the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce over the top.
- Add thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or until meat is tender.
- If desired, mix flour with a little water to create a slurry and stir it into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking to thicken it.
- Serve hot.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Serve Slow Cooker Beef Stew hot in bowls. You can add some fresh bread or rolls on the side for dipping. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top can add a nice touch of color and flavor.
How to Store Slow Cooker Beef Stew
To store leftovers, let the stew cool down completely. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Pour the stew into freezer-safe containers, and it will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker Beef Stew
- Brown the stew meat in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker for extra flavor.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or green beans for more variety.
- Adjust the seasoning to your liking; you can add more herbs or spices if you prefer.
Variation
You can make a hearty vegetable stew by omitting the beef and adding in beans or lentils for protein. This version is great for vegetarians or those looking to reduce meat intake.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen meat?
A: Yes, you can use frozen stew meat. Just add a little extra cooking time to ensure it cooks fully.
Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Absolutely! You can add mushrooms, celery, or bell peppers according to your taste.
Q: Is it necessary to brown the meat first?
A: No, but browning the meat can enhance the flavor of the stew. It’s up to you!
Slow Cooker Beef Stew
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 480 minutes
- Total Time: 495 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soups & Stews
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Beef
Description
A classic comfort food that creates a warm, hearty meal perfect for chilly days. Simple to prepare and packed with flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds stew meat
- 4 cups beef broth
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 4 potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons flour (optional for thickening)
Instructions
- In a slow cooker, combine the stew meat, carrots, potatoes, onion, and garlic.
- Pour the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce over the top.
- Add thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or until meat is tender.
- If desired, mix flour with a little water to create a slurry and stir it into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking to thicken it.
- Serve hot.
Notes
Serve with fresh bread or rolls on the side. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and flavor.