There’s nothing quite like a hearty beef stew to warm you up on a chilly night. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just want a nourishing meal, this crock pot beef stew recipe is the perfect go-to. Packed with flavors and tender beef, this dish is simplicity and comfort in a single bowl.
Ingredients
Equipments
To make this crock pot beef stew, you’ll need a slow cooker, a chopping board, a sharp knife, and a wooden spoon for stirring.
How to Make Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe – Step By Step
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 2 pounds of beef chuck, 4 peeled and chopped carrots, 4 diced potatoes, 1 chopped onion, 4 cloves of minced garlic, 3 cups of beef broth, 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, a sprig of rosemary, salt, and pepper. Ensure that your beef is cut into bite-sized chunks to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Sauté the Beef
Heat a small amount of oil in a pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the beef chunks and sauté until all sides are browned. This step seals in the juices and adds depth of flavor to your stew.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Crock Pot
Transfer the browned beef to your slow cooker. Add the carrots, potatoes, onion, and garlic on top. Pour in the beef broth and stir in the tomato paste until well combined. Season with salt, pepper, and place the rosemary on top.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Alternatively, you can cook on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the beef is fork-tender and the vegetables are soft.
Step 5: Final Adjustments
Before serving, taste your stew and adjust any seasonings if necessary. If the stew is too thin for your liking, you can thicken it by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of water and stirring it into the stew.
How to Serve Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe
Serve your stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired, and a side of crusty bread to soak up all the delicious broth. Enjoy it in a large bowl for a filling dinner, or delight your guests with it as the main course at your next gathering.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
To elevate your stew, consider adding mushrooms or a splash of red wine for a richer taste. Always make sure your beef is well-browned at the start for the best flavor, and adjust cooking times based on your slow cooker model’s recommendations.
Pumped-Up Protein: Beef Stew for Muscle Building
For those looking to increase their protein intake, this beef stew can be a powerhouse. Opt for leaner cuts of beef and consider adding a tin of beans or lentils towards the end of cooking. Not only will this increase the protein content, but it will also add texture and additional nutrients.
Low-Carb Beef Stew Wonder
Swap out the standard potatoes for turnips or radishes for an incredible low-carb version of this classic dish. With all the same delicious flavors, you’ll keep it keto-friendly while still enjoying a sumptuous meal.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerate any leftover stew in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, the stew can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
- Can I add other vegetables to my stew? – Absolutely! Bell peppers and peas work beautifully in this recipe.
- Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free? – Yes, simply ensure that your beef broth is gluten-free, and use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken.
- What’s the best way to reheat the stew? – Gently reheat on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Can I use chicken instead of beef? – You can substitute chicken, but adjust the cooking time as chicken cooks quicker than beef.
Perfect Ending: Your Thoughts on the Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe
This beef stew recipe is a must-try for anyone in need of a hearty meal that brings people together. Its comforting flavors and easy preparation make it a staple in any kitchen repertoire. If you try this recipe, please share your experience in the comments below and tag us on social media with your creations! 🍲
Crock Pot Beef Stew
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- beef chuck
- carrots
- potatoes
- onion
- garlic
- beef broth
- tomato paste
- rosemary
- salt and pepper
Instructions
Steps
- Prepare and gather all your ingredients, ensuring all vegetables are chopped and beef is cut into chunks.
- Sauté the beef pieces until browned on all sides to lock in flavor.
- Add browned beef, vegetables, broth, and seasonings to the slow cooker. Stir in tomato paste.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender.
- Adjust seasoning as needed before serving.