Welcome to a delightful journey of flavors and nutrition with our high-protein beef stew cooked in a crockpot. This hearty recipe is perfect for those seeking a delicious and wholesome meal that doesn’t compromise on nutrition or taste. Preparing it in a crockpot allows all the ingredients to melt together perfectly, offering a rich stew that will quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs of beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 3 cups of beef broth
- 2 cups of chopped carrots
- 2 cups of diced potatoes
- 1 cup of chopped onions
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipments
- Crockpot
- Large frying pan
- Wooden spoon
- Sharp knife
- Chopping board
How to Make High-Protein Beef Stew Crockpot – Step By Step
Step 1 – Sear the Beef
To lock in the flavors and textures of the beef, begin by heating the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sauté until each piece is nicely browned on all sides, which should take about 5–7 minutes per batch. This caramelization process enhances the flavor of your stew.
Step 2 – Prepare the Vegetables
While searing the beef, take this time to chop up your vegetables. Dice the potatoes and carrots into uniform pieces, roughly the same size, to ensure even cooking. Once all vegetables are ready, set them aside until it’s time to add them to the crockpot.
Step 3 – Assemble the Ingredients
In the crockpot, combine the seared beef cubes, chopped carrots, diced potatoes, chopped onions, and minced garlic. Pour the beef broth over the ingredients, ensuring everything is submerged adequately. Add the dried thyme and rosemary, then season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
Step 4 – Cook the Stew
Set the crockpot to low and let it cook for 7–8 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. You can set it on high if you’re short on time; it should be ready in about 3–4 hours. The slow cooking process ensures the beef becomes tender and falls apart easily upon serving.
Step 5 – Final Touches
Once the cooking time has elapsed, check the seasoning. Add more salt or pepper if needed. Stir the stew well before serving to distribute the ingredients and flavors evenly. Your high-protein beef stew is now ready to be served and enjoyed!
How to Serve High-Protein Beef Stew Crockpot
Enjoy this sumptuous beef stew served hot in bowls, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color. You can complement it with crusty bread or a light side salad to make a complete meal.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For an added layer of flavor, consider integrating a splash of red wine to the broth during the assembly phase. You can also experiment by adding mushrooms or using sweet potatoes for a slightly different taste. Always taste for seasoning before serving, as slow cooking can sometimes dull the flavors slightly.
Pumped Up Protein Punch: The Power of this Meal
If you’re looking to up your protein intake, this beef stew is a perfect choice. Packed with lean beef and nutrient-rich vegetables, it’s a fantastic way to fuel your body. Not only is it filling, but the balanced mix of protein, fiber, and complex carbohydrates ensures you’re getting a wholesome meal every time.
Integrating more high-protein meals like this stew can aid muscle repair and growth, making it ideal for those leading an active lifestyle or looking to maintain muscle mass while shedding unwanted fat.
Low-Carb Twist: A Lighter Take on the Classic Stew
For those following a low-carb diet, this beef stew can easily be modified. Simply substitute the potatoes with additional low-carb vegetables like zucchini or cauliflower. Not only does this reduce the carb content, but it still maintains the flavor integrity of the dish.
Embracing a low-carb lifestyle doesn’t mean sacrificing taste or satisfaction, and this variation proves that delicious meals are achievable even with dietary restrictions. It’s a creative, conscious way to enjoy comfort food without the extra carbs.
Storage Instructions
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the stew in individual portions for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly in a saucepan over medium heat before serving.
FAQs
- Can I cook this stew on the stovetop instead? Yes, you can simmer it on a low flame for about 2–3 hours until the beef is tender.
- Do I need to brown the meat first? While optional, browning the meat adds depth of flavor to the stew.
- Can I use chicken instead of beef? Certainly! Adjust the cooking time as chicken cooks faster.
- What other vegetables can I add? Mushrooms, bell peppers, and peas add great flavor and texture.
The Final Scoop on Your Tasty Beef Stew Adventure
This high-protein beef stew is a testament to how simple ingredients can create something truly satisfying. Perfect for any occasion, it warms the heart and pleases the belly. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try out the low-carb or protein-boosted versions, this stew promises endless satisfaction. Share your own tips or variations in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you! Don’t forget to rate the recipe and share it with fellow food enthusiasts.
High-Protein Beef Stew Crockpot
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- beef stew meat
- olive oil
- beef broth
- carrots
- potatoes
- onions
- garlic
- dried thyme
- dried rosemary
- salt and pepper
Instructions
Steps
- Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat and sear beef cubes until browned on all sides.
- In the crockpot, combine seared beef, carrots, potatoes, onions, and garlic. Add beef broth, thyme, rosemary, and season with salt and pepper.
- Set the crockpot to low and cook for 7–8 hours, or on high for 3–4 hours until beef is tender.
- Check seasoning and adjust if necessary before serving hot.