🥩 Description

This Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Beef Stew is the ultimate comfort food recipe made with tender chunks of beef, fresh onions, and a rich homemade marinade packed with garlic, herbs, and savory spices. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep ideas, or family dinners, this easy crockpot beef recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort.

Using a slow cooker allows the beef to become incredibly tender while absorbing the bold garlic herb marinade. This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread. If you’re searching for easy slow cooker recipes, best crockpot beef stew, or high-protein dinner ideas, this recipe checks every box.

🛒 Ingredients

For the Beef:

2½–3 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into large cubes
1 large white onion, diced
1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for searing)

For the Garlic Herb Marinade:

½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
¼ cup beef broth
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
4–5 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Optional Sear for Extra Flavor

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear beef cubes for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. This enhances flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.

Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Add diced onions to the bottom of the slow cooker. Place beef cubes on top.

Step 3: Make the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar, garlic, oregano, thyme, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and brown sugar.

Step 4: Pour & Cook

Pour the marinade evenly over the beef. Cover and cook:

Low: 7–8 hours
High: 4–5 hours

The beef should be fork-tender and juicy.

Step 5: Thicken Sauce (Optional)

If you prefer a thicker gravy-style sauce, mix cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water and stir into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

🍽 Serving Suggestions

Serve over mashed potatoes
Pair with buttered rice
Add roasted vegetables
Use leftovers for beef sliders or tacos

💡 Pro Cooking Tips

Use beef chuck roast for best tenderness.
Don’t skip garlic — fresh garlic gives premium flavor.
For a gourmet twist, add mushrooms or baby carrots.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes! Brisket or round roast works, but chuck roast provides the best slow-cooked tenderness.

2. Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes. Pressure cook on high for 35 minutes with natural release for 10 minutes.

3. How do I store and reheat?

Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat or microwave until warm.

4. Can I freeze this recipe?

Absolutely. Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

5. Is this recipe keto-friendly?

To make it low-carb or keto, omit brown sugar and cornstarch.

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