Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe
When you’re looking for a comforting meal, this Slow Cooker Beef Stew recipe is a go-to that never disappoints.
I love how easy it’s to throw everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work. The aroma that fills my kitchen while it cooks is downright irresistible.
Each bite is a warm hug, with tender beef melting in my mouth and the veggies providing a delightful crunch. It’s perfect for chilly evenings or when I need something satisfying after a long day.
Plus, it’s a great way to feed a crowd without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this stew, it’ll become a favorite in your home too!
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Beef Stew
When it comes to making a delicious and hearty Slow Cooker Beef Stew, having the right ingredients is key. You want to make sure you have everything prepped and ready to go, so you can just toss them into the slow cooker and let it work its magic.
The combination of tender beef and fresh vegetables creates a rich, savory flavor that warms you from the inside out. And, let’s be real, who doesn’t love a meal that practically makes itself?
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this comforting stew:
- 2 lbs boneless beef top round steaks
- 8 medium carrots
- 1 lb small red potatoes
- 1 medium red pepper, chopped
- 1 (14 1/2 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 1/4 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon pepper
Now, a couple of things to keep in mind about these ingredients. First, you can definitely swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season.
Feel free to add in some celery, peas, or even mushrooms if they tickle your fancy. And if you’re not a fan of beef or just want to mix it up, this recipe works well with chicken too. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary!
Also, make sure to get a good quality beef broth; it makes such a difference in flavor. Trust me, no one wants a bland stew.
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Alright, let’s plunge into making this comforting bowl of Slow Cooker Beef Stew. First things first, you’ve got your 2 lbs of boneless beef top round steaks. Start by cutting them into 1-inch cubes. If you’re like me, you might find this step oddly satisfying—there’s something about chopping beef that feels so… chef-like, right?
Once your beef is cubed, it’s time to brown it in a large skillet. Heat a little oil over medium heat and toss those beef cubes in, making sure to cook them on all sides until they get that lovely brown color. This step isn’t just for show; it adds depth to the flavor of your stew.
While that’s happening, grab your veggies. You’ll need 8 medium carrots, which you should chop into 1-inch pieces, and 1 lb of small red potatoes, which you can quarter. A medium red pepper, chopped, will add a nice pop of color and sweetness.
Now, in your trusty 5-quart slow cooker, throw in all those beautiful vegetables. Pour a can of undrained diced tomatoes over the top—trust me, it’s going to make everything nice and juicy.
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 (6 ounce) can of tomato paste, and 1 1/4 cups of beef broth until it’s smooth and well-combined. Stir in 1 teaspoon each of salt, minced garlic, and pepper. This mixture is like the glue that holds your stew together, so don’t skimp on it.
Pour it over the veggies in the slow cooker, and then gently nestle the browned beef on top.
Now that everything is in the slow cooker, cover it and set it to cook on low for about 6 to 8 hours. This is the part where you can kick back and relax—maybe catch up on some reading, or binge-watch that show everyone’s been talking about.
The aroma wafting through your house will be absolutely intoxicating, and you’ll be counting down the minutes until it’s ready. When the cooking time is up, check if the meat is tender; it should fall apart at the slightest touch. If it’s not quite there yet, let it go a bit longer.
Once it’s ready, gather your family or friends around the table, ladle the stew into bowls, and watch as everyone digs in, surely making you feel like a kitchen rockstar.
Slow Cooker Beef Stew Substitutions & Variations
Now that your Slow Cooker Beef Stew is simmering away, you might be wondering how to make it your own.
One simple swap is using chicken or turkey instead of beef for a lighter version. If you’re looking to add more veggies, throw in some mushrooms, peas, or even kale for extra nutrition.
For a twist, try using sweet potatoes instead of red potatoes—they’ll add a hint of sweetness. If you’re a spice lover, consider adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce or even some chili powder for a kick.
You can also experiment with different herbs, like thyme or rosemary, to enhance the flavor.
Mix and match these ideas to create a stew that suits your taste!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Beef Stew
While your Slow Cooker Beef Stew is bubbling away, you might be wondering what to pair it with for a complete meal.
I love serving my stew with crusty bread, perfect for soaking up all that delicious gravy. A side salad adds some freshness; a simple mix of greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette works wonders.
If I’m feeling extra indulgent, I might whip up some buttery mashed potatoes to complement the stew’s hearty flavors.
Another great option is a side of roasted vegetables, which adds color and nutrition to the plate.
Whatever you choose, keep it simple and comforting to let the stew shine as the star of the meal!
Additional Tips & Notes
To enhance your Slow Cooker Beef Stew experience, consider a few handy tips.
First, feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand—mushrooms or green beans can be great additions.
I also recommend browning the beef thoroughly; it adds depth to the flavor.
If you prefer a thicker stew, mix in a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch with water) during the final hour of cooking.
Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving; a pinch of extra salt or pepper can make a world of difference.
Ultimately, this stew freezes well, so make a double batch and enjoy it later.
You’ll thank yourself on those busy days!