introduction

This Slow Cooker Beef Stew is warm and full of taste. It cooks slow so the meat gets soft. You can make it on a busy day. For a similar easy guide, see slow cooker beef stew recipe.

why make this recipe

Make this stew when you want a hot, simple meal. It uses few tools and little work. You can set it and forget it. If you like a bigger, rich version, check ultimate slow cooker beef stew.

how to make Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Brown the meat first to add more taste. Then add the veg and sauce to the slow cooker. Pour the broth and cook slowly until the beef is very soft. For a step view of a similar method, see beef stew steps.

Ingredients :

2 pounds beef stew meat
4 cups beef broth
4 carrots, sliced
3 potatoes, cubed
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

For a version with dumplings, you can read beef stew with dumplings.

Directions :

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the beef stew meat on all sides, then transfer to the slow cooker.
In the slow cooker, add the carrots, potatoes, onion, garlic, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Pour the beef broth over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender.
Serve hot and enjoy your hearty beef stew.

how to serve Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Serve the stew hot in deep bowls. Add a bit of fresh pepper or herbs on top. Serve with warm bread or a salad. You can also pair it with rice or noodles. For other serving ideas, see beef stew serving ideas.

how to store Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Let the stew cool to room temp. Put it in an airtight dish or jar. Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer time, freeze in safe bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before you heat and eat.

tips to make Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Brown the meat well for more taste.
Cut the veg in even sizes so they cook the same.
Do not lift the lid while it cooks a lot. That keeps the heat in.
Use low heat for best soft meat.

variation (if any)

Add a splash of red wine for deep taste.
Use sweet potatoes instead of white potatoes.
Add mushrooms for more umami.
Make it spicier with a pinch of cayenne.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different cut of beef?
A: Yes. Use any stew beef or chuck. Cook time may change.

Q: Can I add frozen veg?
A: Yes. Add frozen veg in the last 2 hours on low or last hour on high.

Q: Do I need to thicken the stew?
A: If you want a thicker sauce, mix a little flour or cornstarch with water and stir in. Cook 15 more minutes.

Q: Can I cook this on the stove?
A: Yes. Brown the meat, add all ingredients, and simmer low for 2 to 3 hours until soft.

Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
A: Warm on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until hot all the way through.

Conclusion

For one more clear slow cooker guide, see Slow Cooker Beef Stew – The Cozy Cook.

Slow Cooker Beef Stew