Make the best Slow Cooker Beef Stew with tender beef, potatoes, carrots, and a rich savory gravy. This easy crockpot recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and cozy family dinners.
Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe
There are some meals that instantly make the house feel warm and cozy, and this Slow Cooker Beef Stew is one of them. I usually prep everything in the morning, let the slow cooker do the work, and by dinner time the beef is incredibly tender and the vegetables have soaked up all that rich, savory flavor. Honestly, it’s one of my favorite comfort meals because it’s simple, filling, and always a hit with my family.
Ingredients
- 2½ lbs beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 medium potatoes, cut into chunks
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp cold water
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Season the beef with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear the beef for 2–3 minutes per side until nicely browned.
Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Place the potatoes, carrots, onion, and garlic into the slow cooker. Add the browned beef on top.
Step 3: Add the Liquid
Whisk together beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Pour over the beef and vegetables. Add the bay leaves.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Cook on Low for 8–9 hours or High for 4–5 hours, until the beef is fork-tender.
Step 5: Thicken the Gravy
Mix cornstarch with cold water. Stir it into the stew during the last 20–30 minutes of cooking until the broth thickens.
Step 6: Serve
Remove the bay leaves, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.
Cooking Tips
- Chuck roast gives the most tender results.
- Browning the beef first adds incredible flavor.
- Cut vegetables into large pieces so they don’t become mushy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty stew pairs perfectly with:
- Crusty artisan bread
- Dinner rolls
- Buttered biscuits
- Garlic bread
- Fresh green salad
Nutrition Information (Approx. Per Serving)
- Calories: 460
- Protein: 36g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 720mg
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Beef Stew is the definition of comfort food. The beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, the vegetables are perfectly cooked, and the rich gravy ties everything together. Whether you’re feeding the family or meal-prepping for the week, this easy crockpot recipe is one you’ll want to make again and again.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It tastes even better the next day after the flavors have developed.
2. What’s the best cut of beef?
Beef chuck roast is ideal because it becomes incredibly tender during slow cooking.
3. Can I freeze this stew?
Absolutely. Cool completely and freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
4. How do I make the gravy thicker?
Mix cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes.
5. Can I add other vegetables?
Yes. Celery, mushrooms, peas, or green beans are all delicious additions.
