This slow cooker beef stew cooks slow and fills your home with a warm smell. It uses simple food and few steps. You can make it on a busy day and eat warm that night. For a similar slow cooker idea, see slow cooker beef stew.

Why make this recipe

This stew keeps well and tastes rich. You cook it slow so the beef turns soft. You can feed a group or save some for a week. You can add dumplings for a new taste, like these cheddar herb dumplings.

How to make Ultimate Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Cut the beef into even pieces. Brown the beef in a pan to add rich taste. Add the veg and broth to the slow cooker. Let it cook on low for a long time so the meat gets soft. For other stew tips, read more on beef stew.

Ingredients :

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces
4 cups beef broth
4 medium carrots, sliced
3 medium potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
1 bay leaf

Directions :

In a large bowl, season the beef pieces with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the beef in batches, then transfer to the slow cooker.
Add carrots, potatoes, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker.
Stir in the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf.
Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours until the beef is tender.
Remove bay leaf before serving. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

How to serve Ultimate Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Serve hot in a deep bowl. Add a slice of bread or a small salad. You can also serve it with a side like slow cooker cajun potato soup for a full warm meal. Top with fresh parsley if you like.

How to store Ultimate Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Cool the stew to room temp. Put it in an air tight box. Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. For long store, freeze in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before you heat it.

Tips to make Ultimate Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Brown the beef well. This adds more taste.
Cut veg in even pieces so they cook the same.
Do not lift the lid many times while it cooks.
Check salt at the end and add more if you need.
Use low heat for best texture.

Variation (if any)

Add mushrooms for more earth taste.
Use red wine (1/2 cup) with the broth for depth.
Add peas at the end for a fresh pop.
Try dumplings on top for a new dish.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different cut of beef?
A: Yes. Use any stew meat or chuck for best result.

Q: Can I add more veg?
A: Yes. Add parsnip or turnip but cut to the same size as the potatoes.

Q: How do I thicken the stew?
A: Mix 2 tablespoons of flour or cornstarch with cold water and stir in in the last 20 minutes.

Q: What sides go well with this stew?
A: Rice or bread work well. You can try a simple chicken and rice side like slow cooker lemon herb chicken with rice.

Conclusion

This recipe gives you a warm, full meal with little work. If you want another slow cooker version with tips and notes, check this Slow Cooker Beef Stew – The Cozy Cook.

Ultimate Slow Cooker Beef Stew