Slow Cooker Beef Stew

This Slow Cooker Beef Stew is the perfect dish for cozy nights and family gatherings. Bursting with flavors from tender beef, hearty vegetables, and rich broth, this stew warms you from the inside out. It’s a versatile recipe that can be served on its own or with crusty bread, making it ideal for any occasion, especially during the Fall and Winter months.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Simply add ingredients to your slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of red wine, beef broth, and seasonings creates an incredibly flavorful dish.
• Comforting Meal: This hearty stew is perfect for warming up after a long day.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize by adding your favorite vegetables or spices.
• Feeds a Crowd: With 6 servings, it’s great for family dinners or meal prep for the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Slow Cooker Beef Stew, you’ll need some essential tools to help you along the way. Having these items ready will streamline the cooking process and ensure success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Large Skillet
• Cutting Board
• Chef’s Knife
• Silicone Spatula
• Measuring Cups and Spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: The star of your kitchen! It allows for low-and-slow cooking, which enhances flavors and tenderness.
• Large Skillet: Perfect for browning meat before adding it to the slow cooker. This step adds depth to your stew’s flavor.
• Chef’s Knife: A good knife makes chopping vegetables easy and efficient, ensuring even cooking throughout.

Ingredients

This traditional Beef Stew is loaded with tender bites of juicy beef, golden potatoes, carrots, peas, red wine, onions, garlic, and a hearty beef broth. It’s the BEST Slow Cooker recipe for Fall and Winter.

• 2 ½ pounds stew meat (see notes)
• ½ teaspoon EACH: black pepper, garlic salt, celery salt
• 1/4 cup flour
• 3-6 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons cold butter (divided)
• 2 cups yellow onions (diced)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup cabernet sauvignon (or merlot. See notes.)
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 beef bouillon cubes
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 5 medium carrots (cut into 1-inch chunks)
• 1 lb. baby Yukon gold potatoes (halved or quartered)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 sprig rosemary
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1/4 cup Cold Water + 3 tablespoons Corn Starch (Optional)
• 2-3 drops Gravy Master (Optional– Adds a richer, darker color.)

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Step 1: Prepare the Meat

1. Cut meat into 1-inch cubes; discard any large pieces of fat. Marbleized fat within the meat is fine!
2. Sprinkle beef with black pepper, garlic salt, and celery salt; toss to coat.
3. Add flour over the meat; toss again until evenly coated.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

1. Heat 3 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add meat in batches; don’t overcrowd the pan.
3. Brown each side for about 45 seconds; add more oil if needed.
4. Transfer browned meat to slow cooker.

Step 3: Cook Onions and Garlic

1. Reduce heat to medium; melt 1 tablespoon of butter in the skillet.
2. Add diced onions; cook for about 5 minutes until they soften.
3. Stir in minced garlic; cook for another minute.
4. Add a splash of wine to deglaze the pan; use a silicone spatula to scrape up brown bits.
5. Transfer onion-garlic mixture along with remaining wine to slow cooker.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. Add all remaining ingredients except peas, cornstarch mixture, and remaining cold butter into the slow cooker.
2. Stir well until combined.

Step 5: Slow Cook

1. Cook on low for about 7½ to 8 hours or high for about 3½ to 4 hours until vegetables are softened and potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 6: Finish Cooking

1. Add frozen peas during the last 15 minutes of cooking time.
2. Remove bay leaves and rosemary stem before serving.

Optional Steps: Thicken Your Stew

1. To thicken stew, combine cold water with cornstarch in a small bowl until smooth.
2. Slowly add this mixture into stew while stirring continuously; it will thicken as it stands.

Serving Suggestion

Turn off heat and swirl in remaining cold butter for a smooth finish using “Monter au Beurre” technique. Optionally add Gravy Master for deeper color before serving warm with bread or over rice!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Serving Slow Cooker Beef Stew is all about enhancing its rich flavors and creating a comforting meal. Here are some delightful ways to present your stew that will impress your family and friends.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Serve with slices of crusty baguette for dipping into the savory broth.
• Homemade Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits are perfect for soaking up the delicious juices of the stew.

On a Bed of Rice

• White Rice: A simple bed of fluffy white rice absorbs the flavors beautifully.
• Brown Rice: For a healthier option, pair your stew with nutty brown rice.

Garnished with Herbs

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a vibrant touch.
• Thyme Sprigs: Add whole thyme sprigs for an aromatic presentation.

With a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad: The crispness of romaine and creamy dressing complement the hearty stew well.
• Mixed Greens: A light mixed greens salad balances the richness of the dish.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Perfecting your Slow Cooker Beef Stew is easy with a few helpful tips. These suggestions will elevate your dish for an even more satisfying experience.

• Use Quality Meat: Choose well-marbled beef for maximum flavor and tenderness.
• Brown the Meat: Searing the meat before adding it to the slow cooker enhances flavor through caramelization.
• Add Vegetables Later: Add delicate vegetables like peas towards the end of cooking to keep them vibrant and tender.
• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker stew, use cornstarch mixed with cold water as a thickening agent.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you go, adjusting seasoning levels at different stages for balanced flavors.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the stew to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Beef Stew can enhance your dining experience. Here are some fantastic options to serve alongside this hearty meal.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic make an excellent match for soaking up the stew’s gravy.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts add a delightful crunch and earthy flavor.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich stew.
4. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is perfect for sopping up every last drop of stew.
5. Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans add color and nutrition without overpowering the meal.
6. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad brings a refreshing element that complements the warm stew nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Beef Stew, avoiding common mistakes can ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the Browning Step: Not browning the meat can result in a less flavorful stew. Take the time to brown the beef for added depth and richness.
• Overcrowding the Slow Cooker: Filling the slow cooker too full can prevent even cooking. Make sure there’s enough space for steam to circulate, or cook in batches.
• Not Using Enough Liquid: A dry stew is disappointing. Always ensure there’s enough liquid, like broth or wine, to keep everything moist and flavorful.
• Cutting Vegetables Too Small: Smaller pieces can become mushy during cooking. Cut vegetables into larger chunks to maintain texture and integrity.
• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Seasoning can change as it cooks. Taste your stew before serving and adjust with salt or herbs if needed for a balanced flavor.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover stew in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker Beef Stew

• Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The stew will maintain its quality for up to 3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Beef Stew

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl; heat on medium power, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until warmed evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about Slow Cooker Beef Stew, here are some common ones answered.

What type of meat is best for Slow Cooker Beef Stew?

Chuck roast is ideal because it becomes tender when cooked slowly. It has good marbling that adds flavor.

How do I thicken my Slow Cooker Beef Stew?

To thicken your stew, mix cornstarch with cold water and add it during the last stages of cooking. Stir well and let it simmer until thickened.

Can I substitute vegetables in this beef stew?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with seasonal vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes based on your preference.

Is Slow Cooker Beef Stew healthy?

Yes, this stew is nutritious, packed with protein from beef and vitamins from vegetables. It’s a hearty meal option!

How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Beef Stew on low?

It takes about 7 ½ to 8 hours on low heat. This allows all flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring tenderness.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Beef Stew is an ultimate comfort food perfect for chilly days. With its rich flavors and tender meat, it’s not only filling but also versatile. You can customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand. Try this recipe for a heartwarming meal that brings joy to every table!