Prepare the Ingredients: Chop the onion, carrots, and potatoes. Cut beef into cubes and mince the garlic, preparing everything for easy assembly.
Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Sear beef cubes until browned on all sides. Transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker: Add vegetables, garlic, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, bay leaf, and beef broth to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
Cook the Stew: Cover and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours, until the beef and vegetables are tender.
Thicken (Optional): To thicken, stir in a cornstarch slurry during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Notes
Store the stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently before serving.