The Ultimate Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe: Slow Cook Your Way to Comfort

Welcome to the comfort of hearty flavors and savory aromas with our ultimate Crock Pot beef stew recipe. Perfect for those chilly evenings or a family gathering, this slow-cooked masterpiece requires minimal effort while maximizing taste. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or an amateur looking to impress, this recipe is both straightforward and satisfying.

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Ingredients

2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
4 cups beef broth
6 carrots, sliced
4 potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon thyme
1 teaspoon rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
1 cup peas

Equipments

Crock Pot/Slow Cooker
Large skillet
Knife
Cutting board
Wooden spoon

How to Make The Ultimate Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe – Step By Step

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by preparing all your ingredients. Make sure to cut your beef chuck into even 1-inch cubes for consistent cooking. Peel and slice the carrots, dice the potatoes into bite-sized chunks, chop the onions, and mince the garlic. Having everything ready ensures a smooth cooking process.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef cubes in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until brown. This step locks in the juices and adds richness to your stew.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot

Transfer the seared beef into your Crock Pot. Add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Pour in the beef broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Sprinkle thyme, rosemary, along with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together gently to ensure an even mix.

Step 4: Slow Cook the Stew

Set your Crock Pot on low and let it cook for 7-8 hours. This slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the beef to become tender. If you’re in a hurry, you can cook on high for 4-5 hours, but the slow method brings out the best textures and flavors.

Step 5: Add Peas

In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the peas. They add a fresh burst of color and sweetness, making the stew even more delightful to the palate. Stir and let them cook just until tender.

How to Serve The Ultimate Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe

Once your stew is ready, give it a final stir and check the seasoning. Adjust if necessary with salt and pepper. Serve your stew warm, ladled generously into bowls. It’s perfect with crusty bread or over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes. This dish pairs wonderfully with a glass of full-bodied red wine.

Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions

For best results, use beef chuck as it holds up well to long cooking times. Searing the meat is optional but recommended as it adds depth of flavor. Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables like parsnips or celery. Adding a bay leaf while cooking can also enhance the herbaceous notes.

Beefed Up Nutrition: High Protein Crock Pot Stew

Bumping up the protein in your stew can be as simple as increasing the beef to 2.5 or 3 lbs. Add protein-rich veggies like kale or beans during the last hour of cooking for added texture and flavor.

Using bone broth instead of beef broth can also enhance both protein content and flavor, offering you a heartier, healthier version of this comforting classic.

Keto Magic: Low Carb Crock Pot Beef Stew

You can easily transform this recipe to fit a low-carb lifestyle by swapping potatoes for turnips or cauliflower. These swaps keep the texture hearty while maintaining those cozy stew vibes.

Omitting the tomato paste and limiting root vegetables will further reduce carbs, leaving you with a stew that’s rich in taste but lighter on carbs.

Storage Instructions

To store your beef stew, first let it cool at room temperature. Transfer into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in sealed containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat over low heat.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different type of meat?
A: Yes, you can substitute beef with lamb or chicken based on your preference.

Q: Can I make this stew in an instant pot?
A: Absolutely, using the stew setting will shorten the cooking time.

Q: Do I need to add flour or cornstarch?
A: Not necessarily, but if you want a thicker stew, do so towards the end of cooking.

Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, just ensure your Crock Pot can accommodate the increased volume.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: It can be, just make sure your broth and Worcestershire sauce are certified gluten-free.

Taste The Warmth & Nourishment

This Crock Pot beef stew recipe brings warmth and nourishment to your table with each mouthful. As you savor its rich, savory taste, remember to share your cooking experiences and modifications in the comments below or tag us in your drool-worthy stew photos! Happy slow cooking!