Hey there, friend! Today, we’re diving into a recipe that feels like a giant, warm hug in a bowl—Crockpot Hearty Beef Stew. Whether it’s chilly outside or you just need a comforting classic, this stew is your go-to. It’s brimming with tender chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth that tastes like it simmered all day (because, spoiler alert, it did!). Get your favorite spoon ready—you’re going to want seconds.
If you’re all about hands-off meals that deliver big flavor, this one’s for you!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Set and Forget: Let your crockpot do all the heavy lifting while you tackle your to-do list (or binge your favorite show).
- Wholesome Ingredients: Classic flavors and pantry staples mean no fuss and no fancy shopping trips.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better the next day (hello, meal prep win!).
- Comfort Food Perfection: This is the flavor of cozy family dinners, guaranteed.
Ingredients Breakdown
Essentials:
- Beef Stew Meat: Look for pre-cut stew meat, or cube a chuck roast yourself for tenderness. Want to swap it out? Turkey or mushrooms work great for variations.
- Potatoes: Yukon golds hold their shape but also get fabulously creamy. Russets work too, but they’ll make the broth thicker as they break down.
- Carrots & Celery: The classic veggie trio for adding natural sweetness and depth.
- Beef Broth: Use low-sodium to control seasoning or switch to chicken broth in a pinch—it’s our flavorful base.
- Tomato Paste: A little goes a long way for richness and a hint of tang.
- Red Wine (Optional): Adds a sophisticated depth to the stew, but you can sub with extra broth.
- Seasonings: Garlic, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper bring it all together.
Pro Tips:
- Browning the meat: This step adds SO much flavor. It’s worth it, trust me.
- Don’t skip the bay leaf: This tiny leaf packs a punch—discard it before serving for the perfect finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the Beef: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of oil. Season the beef with salt and pepper, then sear until browned on all sides. This locks in flavor!
- Load up the Crockpot: Add the browned beef, potatoes, carrots, celery, garlic, tomato paste, thyme, and bay leaf to the slow cooker.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour the red wine (or a bit of broth) into the hot skillet, scraping up all those flavorful bits. Add this mix to the crockpot.
- Add the Broth: Pour beef broth over the ingredients until everything is just covered.
- Cook Low and Slow: Set the crockpot to low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours. Let the magic happen.
- Thicken it up: 30 minutes before serving, whisk together 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1/4 cup of cold water. Stir it into the stew and let it thicken up.
- Serve and Enjoy: Grab your favorite bowl, ladle it in, and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Chef’s Tips and Tricks
- Prepping in Advance: You can chop your veggies the night before or even brown the beef and refrigerate it until morning.
- Don’t Peek: Resist the urge to lift the lid during cooking—it’s like letting all the cozy out.
- Freezer Magic: This stew freezes beautifully! Portion leftovers into freezer bags for busy nights.
Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Vegetarian Twist: Swap the beef for hearty mushrooms or lentils, and use veggie broth.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Serving Ideas: Pair with crusty bread, a side salad, or even serve over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort meal.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen beef? Yes! Just thaw it in the fridge before browning for best results.
- How do I store leftovers? Cool completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Can I make this on the stovetop? Absolutely! Simmer everything in a large pot over low heat for 2-3 hours until the beef is fork-tender.
Crockpot Hearty Beef Stew
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 8 hours | Servings: 6
- 1 ½ lbs beef stew meat
- 1 lb Yukon Gold potatoes, chopped
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- ½ cup red wine (optional)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Parsley, for garnish
- Heat oil in a skillet, season beef with salt and pepper, and brown on all sides.
- Add beef, potatoes, carrots, celery, garlic, tomato paste, thyme, and bay leaf to the crockpot.
- Deglaze skillet with red wine or broth, then pour into crockpot.
- Add the remaining broth, cover, and cook on low for 8-10 hours (or high for 4-6 hours).
- 30 minutes before serving, mix cornstarch with cold water and stir into stew to thicken.
- Garnish with parsley and serve warm!
This Crockpot Hearty Beef Stew is the kind of recipe that makes you fall in love with cooking (and eating) all over again. Let me know how it turns out for you—leave a comment below or tag your delicious creations on social media with #TheKitchensAid. I can’t wait to see your cozy bowls of happiness!
