Simple Slow Cooker Beef Stew for Busy Nights

There’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a classic beef stew on a chilly evening. This slow cooker beef stew is the epitome of hearty, home-cooked goodness, perfect for those who crave a deliciously satisfying meal with minimal effort. One of my families most beloved crockpot beef stew combines tender stew meat, vibrant vegetables, and rich broth to create a dish that’s both flavorful and nourishing.

Ideal for seasonal meals, this slow cooker beef stew is a versatile and foolproof recipe that ensures a delectable dinner every time. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, this crock pot recipe will become a staple in your kitchen, bringing warmth and contentment to your table.

Beef Stew

Ingredients List

2 cups beef broth
1 lb beef cubes
4 carrots, peeled and cubed
4 potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 onion, peeled and cubed
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

• Prep Ingredients: Peel and cube the carrots, potatoes, and onion.
• Sear Beef (Optional): For added flavor, you can sear the beef cubes in a pan over medium-high heat until browned on all sides before adding them to the slow cooker.
• Layer Ingredients: Place the cubed vegetables (carrots, potatoes, onion) at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the beef cubes on top.
• Add Liquid: Pour 2 cups of beef broth over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
• Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the beef and vegetables are tender.
• Serve: Once cooked, give the stew a good stir. Serve hot with bread or over rice.

Notes

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the stew before serving and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
• Storage: This stew can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheats well.
• Reheating: Reheat leftovers on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of broth if needed to maintain moisture.

Flavor Enhancements

1. Sear the Meat: Before adding the beef cubes to the slow cooker, sear them in a hot pan with a bit of oil until they are browned on all sides. This step adds a deep, rich flavor to the stew.

2. Use Beef Broth or Stock: Substitute water with beef broth or stock for a more robust and savory flavor.

3. Add Tomato Paste: Stir in a couple of tablespoons of tomato paste. This adds umami and a slight tanginess that deepens the overall flavor of the stew.

4. Incorporate Worcestershire Sauce: Add a few dashes of Worcestershire sauce for a complex, savory depth.

5. Include Red Wine: Pour in about 1/2 cup of dry red wine. The alcohol will cook off, leaving behind a rich, layered flavor. Make sure to let it simmer for a few minutes before adding other liquids.

6. Herbs and Spices: Fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves can enhance the flavor. Add them at the beginning of the cooking process.
A couple of cloves of minced garlic can also add a wonderful aroma and taste.

7. Soy Sauce: A splash of soy sauce can add a subtle umami flavor and saltiness.

8. Balsamic Vinegar: A tablespoon of balsamic vinegar added towards the end of cooking can brighten and balance the flavors.

9. Anchovy Paste: It may sound unusual, but a small amount of anchovy paste can melt into the stew, adding a deep umami flavor without tasting fishy.

10. Mushrooms: Adding sliced mushrooms can contribute an earthy, umami flavor that complements the beef.

Learn the tips and tricks on how to thicken stews, sauces, and soups in a slow sooker

Substitutions

These substitutions allow you to customize your slow cooked beef stew to suit different tastes, dietary preferences, or ingredient availability. Experimenting with these alternatives to create your perfect crockpot recipes beef stew!

Beef Cubes
• Chicken Cubes: For a lighter flavor, use chicken cubes.
• Lamb Cubes: For a richer, slightly gamey flavor, use lamb cubes.
• Venison Cubes: For a leaner and more gamey option, use venison cubes.

Carrots
• Parsnips: For a similar texture but slightly sweeter taste.
• Sweet Potatoes: For a sweeter and softer texture.
• Butternut Squash: For a sweet and nutty flavor.

Potatoes
• Turnips: For a slightly peppery flavor and lower carb option.
• Cauliflower: For a low-carb alternative that absorbs flavors well.
• Yukon Potatoes: For a creamier texture.

Onion
• Leeks: For a milder, slightly sweet flavor.
• Shallots: For a sweeter and more delicate flavor.
• Green Onions: For a milder and fresher taste.

Water
• Beef Broth: For a richer, more robust flavor.
• Chicken Broth: For a lighter but still flavorful option.
• Vegetable Broth: For a vegetarian-friendly alternative.

Storage and Reheating

Storage

Refrigeration: Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days.

Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the stew. Place it in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Stovetop: Reheat the stew over low heat on the stove. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and add a small amount of beef broth or water if the stew has thickened too much.

Microwave: Transfer the stew to a microwave-safe dish. Cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Reheat on medium power, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Slow Cooker: If you have time, you can reheat the stew in the slow cooker on the LOW setting for 1-2 hours, or until it reaches the desired temperature.

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the stew in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes, or until hot.

Recipe Card: Slow Cooker Beef Stew

One-Pot Cooking Rocks!