Description

This Slow Cooker Garlic Beef Stew is a rich, hearty, and flavorful comfort food recipe perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, meal prep, and cold-weather meals. Tender chunks of beef slowly cook in a savory garlic-infused sauce until they become melt-in-your-mouth delicious. The combination of beef broth, soy sauce, onions, garlic, and herbs creates a restaurant-quality dish with minimal effort.

Whether you’re looking for an easy crockpot beef recipe, budget-friendly family dinner, or a high-protein meal, this slow cooker beef stew is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

For the Beef Stew

• 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into cubes
• 1 large onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water

Optional Vegetables

• 3 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 potatoes, cubed
• 1 cup mushrooms

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Place diced onions at the bottom of your slow cooker. Add the cubed beef on top.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a bowl, combine:

• Beef broth
• Soy sauce
• Worcestershire sauce
• Tomato paste
• Brown sugar
• Garlic
• Smoked paprika
• Thyme
• Salt and pepper

Whisk until fully combined.

Step 3: Add Sauce

Pour the sauce evenly over the beef and onions.

Step 4: Slow Cook

Cook on:

• LOW for 8–10 hours, or
• HIGH for 4–5 hours

The beef should become fork-tender.

Step 5: Thicken the Gravy

Mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl.

Add to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Stir gently and allow the sauce to thicken.

Step 6: Serve

Serve hot over:

• Mashed potatoes
• Rice
• Egg noodles
• Roasted vegetables

Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Nutrition Information

Approximate per serving:

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 38g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fat: 24g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 4g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best cut of beef for slow cooker stew?

Beef chuck roast is considered the best cut because it becomes extremely tender during long cooking times. Other good options include brisket and beef shoulder.

Can I make this beef stew ahead of time?

Yes. In fact, the flavors become even better after refrigeration. Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Can I freeze slow cooker beef stew?

Absolutely. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How do I make the gravy thicker?

Add a cornstarch slurry or allow the stew to cook uncovered during the final 30 minutes.

Can I use frozen beef?

For food safety reasons, thaw beef completely before placing it in the slow cooker.

What vegetables work best in beef stew?

Popular choices include:

• Potatoes
• Carrots
• Celery
• Mushrooms
• Peas
• Parsnips