Crockpot Beef Stew

There’s something undeniably heartwarming about a bowl of beef stew, especially when it’s made in a cozy crockpot. This recipe brings together tender chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich broth that simmers all day, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Perfect for those chilly evenings, this dish is ideal for family gatherings or simply treating yourself to a comforting meal. Grab your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and let magic happen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creating warm, hearty meals at home doesn’t require a culinary degree. This crockpot beef stew is not only easy to prepare, but it’s also filled with budget-friendly ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Plus, you’ll love how the flavors meld together as it cooks throughout the day. There’s something particularly comforting about knowing a delicious meal awaits you after a busy day.

"This beef stew is simply incredible! Perfectly tender meat and the flavors are out of this world." – A delighted home chef

How to Make Crockpot Beef Stew

Making this dish is as simple as prepping your ingredients, browning the beef for extra flavor, and layering everything in your slow cooker. It’s perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekends where you can set it and forget it. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 2 pounds boneless stewing beef cubes or chuck
• 1/2 medium onion, chopped
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into large chunks
• 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into large chunks
• 3 stalks celery, chopped
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste (see note)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Pepper, to taste
• 3 bay leaves
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional)

Quick Substitutions: You can use other types of potatoes or seasonal vegetables based on your preference. If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce can be a great stand-in for a similar umami flavor.

Directions

1. Prep: Begin by cutting the beef chuck into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. Peel and chop the Yukon Gold potatoes and carrots, and mince the garlic and onion.
2. Brown the Beef: In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Brown the beef in batches, ensuring that each piece gets a nice crust for maximum flavor.
3. Layer the Ingredients: In your slow cooker, layer the browned beef, chopped onions, garlic, potatoes, carrots, and celery.
4. Mix the Broth: In a bowl, mix together the beef broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth. Pour this mixture over the layered ingredients in the slow cooker.
5. Add Aromatics: Toss the bay leaves on top of the stew mixture. Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
6. Cook: Set the slow cooker on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are soft.
7. Thicken (Optional): If you desire a thicker stew, mix cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry and stir it into the stew about 30 minutes before cooking ends.
8. Finish: Before serving, remove the bay leaves and season the stew with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving Suggestions

This beef stew is hearty and fulfilling on its own, but it can shine even brighter with a few simple pairings. Consider serving it with some crusty bread or homemade biscuits to soak up the delicious broth. A fresh green salad can also add a nice, crisp contrast to the warm stew. For added depth, garnish with fresh parsley or serve with a dollop of sour cream on top.

Storage & Reheating

To store your leftovers, allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the stew in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, slowly warm it on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally.

Pro Tips

• Prepping Ahead: You can chop all your vegetables and meat ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
• Browning the Beef: While this step takes a little extra time, it significantly enhances the flavor of the stew, so don’t skip it!
• Herbs & Spices: Feel free to experiment! Adding thyme, rosemary, or even a splash of red wine can bring more complexity to the dish.

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, switch things up! Use different cuts of beef like brisket or add in other vegetables like parsnips or mushrooms. For a spicier kick, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. You can also make a lighter version by substituting leaner meats or adding more vegetables.

FAQs

Can I make this stew in a regular pot?
Yes! You can adapt the recipe for stovetop cooking; just simmer ingredients in a large pot on low heat for 2-3 hours until the beef is tender.

What type of beef is best for stew?
Cuts like chuck or round steak are excellent choices for stew because they become tender with long, slow cooking.

Can I make this stew without the cornstarch?
Absolutely! The cornstarch is optional and mainly used for thickening. The stew will still be delicious and flavorful without it.

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