Crock Pot Beef Stew: The Ultimate Comfort Food for a Cozy Evening

There are few dishes that evoke the feeling of warmth, home, and ultimate comfort quite like a hearty beef stew. And when that stew is made in a Crock Pot, it transforms from a delicious meal into an effortless culinary masterpiece. Imagine tender, fall-apart beef, nestled among perfectly cooked vegetables, all swimming in a rich, savory gravy that has simmered to perfection over hours, infusing every bite with deep, complex flavors. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s an experience waiting to unfold in your kitchen, promising a stress-free dinner that delivers on taste, aroma, and satisfaction. Our Crock Pot Beef Stew recipe is designed to bring that comforting magic to your table with minimal fuss and maximum flavor, making it an absolute must-try for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend gatherings.

The beauty of cooking a classic like Crock Pot Beef Stew lies in its simplicity and the forgiving nature of the slow cooker. You get to front-load most of the effort in the morning, then let the appliance do all the heavy lifting, transforming humble ingredients into something truly extraordinary by dinnertime. The low and slow cooking process tenderizes even the toughest cuts of beef, breaking down connective tissues and allowing the meat to absorb all the wonderful aromas and flavors of the broth, herbs, and vegetables. This method also means less active cooking time for you, freeing up your day while a delicious aroma gradually fills your home. Get ready to discover your new favorite way to make a soul-satisfying Crock Pot Beef Stew that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe

This Crock Pot Beef Stew isn’t just another dinner idea; it’s a culinary hug in a bowl, meticulously crafted to bring joy and ease to your kitchen. The primary reason you’ll absolutely adore this recipe is its unparalleled convenience. In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to prepare wholesome, home-cooked meals can feel like a daunting task. This slow cooker beef stew allows you to do the majority of the prep work in the morning or the night before, then simply set it and forget it. Imagine coming home after a long day to the enticing aroma of a perfectly cooked meal, ready and waiting for you. No last-minute scrambling, no stressful dinner prep – just pure, comforting goodness.

Beyond convenience, the flavor profile of this particular Crock Pot Beef Stew is something truly special. We start by browning the beef, a crucial step that locks in incredible depth and develops a rich, savory foundation known as the Maillard reaction. This creates browned bits at the bottom of your skillet, which are then deglazed with beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, incorporating all that caramelized goodness back into the stew. This initial searing process elevates the taste far beyond what you’d get from simply adding raw beef to the crock pot. The combination of aromatic vegetables like onion and garlic, brightened by tomato paste, and deepened by beef broth, Worcestershire, bay leaf, and thyme, creates a robust and harmonious blend of flavors that only intensifies with hours of slow cooking. The result is a stew that tastes like it took all day to make, because, well, it kind of did – but with minimal effort on your part.

Furthermore, the texture of this Crock Pot Beef Stew is simply divine. The beef chuck roast, cooked low and slow, becomes incredibly tender, easily shredding with a fork. It practically melts in your mouth, a testament to the magic of the slow cooker. The potatoes become wonderfully soft and creamy, soaking up all the rich gravy, while the carrots and celery retain just enough bite to add a pleasant textural contrast without being mushy. The optional addition of frozen peas at the end provides a pop of freshness and color. This is a complete meal in one pot, providing a balanced combination of protein, complex carbohydrates from the vegetables, and essential nutrients, making it a truly satisfying and wholesome choice for the entire family. It’s a dish that warms you from the inside out, making it perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you crave a hearty, home-cooked meal without the fuss.

Why You Should Try This Crock Pot Beef Stew Tonight

If you’re searching for a recipe that combines exceptional flavor with incredible ease, look no further than this Crock Pot Beef Stew. There are compelling reasons why this particular rendition should be on your dinner rotation, starting with its unmatched ability to deliver restaurant-quality results from the comfort of your own kitchen. The slow cooking method is truly transformative, breaking down tough cuts of beef into succulent, fall-apart morsels that are infused with deep, savory flavors. This isn’t just a simple stew; it’s a testament to how patience and the right technique can elevate humble ingredients into something extraordinary. The initial searing of the beef, a step often skipped in other slow cooker recipes, is a game-changer here, adding layers of rich, caramelized flavor that truly set this Crock Pot Beef Stew apart.

Another powerful reason to embrace this recipe is its versatility and adaptability. While the core ingredients create a classic and satisfying stew, you have the freedom to customize it to your family’s preferences or what you have on hand. Don’t have Yukon Gold potatoes? Russets work perfectly. Want to add more root vegetables? Parsnips or turnips would be delightful additions. This recipe provides a fantastic foundation, allowing you to experiment and make it truly your own. It’s also an excellent way to feed a crowd, making it ideal for potlucks, family gatherings, or simply ensuring you have delicious leftovers for lunches throughout the week. The flavors often deepen and improve overnight, making next-day servings of this Crock Pot Beef Stew even more delightful.

Finally, consider the sheer comfort and wholesome nourishment this Crock Pot Beef Stew provides. In an age of quick-fix meals and processed foods, this recipe stands out as a beacon of hearty, nutritious home cooking. Packed with protein from the beef and an array of vitamins and minerals from the vibrant vegetables, it’s a meal that not only fills you up but also fuels your body. It’s the kind of meal that wraps you in a warm embrace on a cold day, soothes a tired soul, and brings the family together around the dinner table. If you’re looking to simplify your cooking routine without sacrificing taste or nutrition, and want to experience the pure joy of a deeply flavorful, easy-to-make meal, then making this Crock Pot meal is an absolute must-try tonight. You won’t regret the rich aromas and delicious results.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for Your Perfect Crock Pot Beef Stew

Crafting the perfect Crock Pot Beef Stew begins with selecting quality ingredients and having the right tools at your disposal. Each component plays a crucial role in building the deep, savory flavors and tender textures that define this classic comfort food. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need to make this outstanding slow cooker beef stew:

Essential Ingredients:

• 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes: This is the star of your Crock Pot Beef Stew. Chuck roast is ideal for slow cooking because it contains a good amount of marbling and connective tissue, which breaks down during the long cooking process, resulting in incredibly tender, flavorful meat. Look for a cut that has some visible fat distributed throughout, as this will render down and contribute to the stew’s richness. Ensure the cubes are uniform in size for even cooking.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Used to coat the beef, this flour serves multiple purposes. First, it helps create a beautiful brown crust on the beef during searing, enhancing flavor through the Maillard reaction. Second, it acts as a thickening agent for the stew, ensuring a rich, luscious gravy rather than a watery broth.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Salt is essential for seasoning the beef and the overall stew. It enhances the natural flavors of all the ingredients. Always taste and adjust seasoning at the end, but this initial amount is key.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle kick and aromatic depth to the stew, complementing the other savory flavors.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for browning the beef and sautéing the aromatics. Olive oil provides a good cooking medium and contributes a light, pleasant flavor. You can use extra virgin or regular olive oil.
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped: Onions are foundational aromatics in almost any savory stew. When cooked, they release natural sugars and create a sweet, savory base that greatly enhances the overall flavor profile of your Crock Pot Beef Stew.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is another indispensable aromatic, providing pungent, savory notes that are critical to the stew’s depth of flavor. Minced garlic integrates seamlessly into the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste: A concentrated burst of umami and sweetness, tomato paste deepens the color and flavor of the stew. When cooked for a minute with the onions and garlic, its flavor intensifies, adding a complex richness.
• 4 cups beef broth: This is the primary liquid base for your Crock Pot Beef Stew. High-quality beef broth is crucial for a rich, savory gravy. Choose a low-sodium variety if you prefer to control the salt content.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: This fermented condiment is a secret weapon in many stews. It adds a profound depth of umami, tang, and complexity, enhancing the savory notes of the beef and broth. Don’t skip it!
• 1 bay leaf: A classic herb for slow-cooked dishes, a bay leaf imparts a subtle, almost woodsy, aromatic flavor that contributes to the overall savory profile without overpowering other ingredients. Remember to remove it before serving.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Thyme is a quintessential herb for beef and vegetable stews. Its earthy, slightly minty flavor complements the hearty ingredients beautifully. Dried thyme works perfectly in slow-cooked dishes as its flavors infuse gradually.
• 1 1/2 pounds potatoes (such as Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks: Potatoes absorb the rich flavors of the stew and provide a satisfying, starchy component. Yukon Golds hold their shape well and have a buttery texture, while Russets will break down more, contributing to a thicker, creamier consistency. Choose based on your preference.
• 3-4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch rounds: Carrots add natural sweetness, vibrant color, and essential vitamins to the Crock Pot Beef Stew. Slicing them into uniform rounds ensures they cook evenly and are tender but not mushy.
• 2-3 celery stalks, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces: Celery contributes a subtle savory, aromatic base and a pleasant textural element to the stew. Along with onions and carrots, it forms the classic mirepoix foundation.
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional): Added at the very end, frozen peas provide a pop of freshness, bright green color, and a hint of sweetness. They cook quickly and should not be added too early, or they’ll lose their vibrant hue and texture.

Recommended Tools and Utensils:

• 6-quart or larger Crock Pot (Slow Cooker): This is, of course, the star appliance for your Crock Pot Beef Stew. A 6-quart capacity is perfect for this recipe, allowing enough space for all ingredients to simmer without overflowing. Look for models with “low” and “high” settings for flexibility.
• Large Skillet or Dutch Oven (Cast Iron Recommended): Crucial for browning the beef and sautéing the aromatics. A heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven retains heat well, which is key for developing that flavorful crust on the beef and for deglazing. Cast iron is excellent for this purpose.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurately portioning flour, salt, pepper, olive oil, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and dried thyme. Precision here ensures balanced flavors.
• Medium Bowl: For tossing the beef with flour and seasonings.
• Tongs: Ideal for handling and turning beef cubes during browning. This keeps your hands clean and allows for easy manipulation of the meat.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy surface for safely cutting your beef and vegetables.
• Sharp Chef’s Knife: Essential for efficiently cutting the beef, chopping the onion, mincing garlic, peeling and chunking potatoes, and slicing carrots and celery. A sharp knife makes prep work safer and faster.
• Vegetable Peeler: For easily peeling potatoes and carrots.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring ingredients in the skillet, scraping up browned bits, and gently combining ingredients in the crock pot.
• Ladle: For serving the hot Crock Pot Beef Stew into bowls.
• Paper Towels: For patting the beef dry, which is critical for achieving a good sear.

Having these ingredients and tools ready will ensure a smooth cooking process and a truly delicious Crock Pot Beef Stew experience.

Detailed Recipe Steps for Your Flavorful Crock Pot Beef Stew

Making a deeply satisfying Crock Pot Beef Stew is simpler than you might think, especially with these detailed steps and helpful tips. The key is in building layers of flavor from the very beginning, ensuring every spoonful is rich and comforting.

1. Prepare the Beef for Maximum Flavor:
   * Begin by taking your 2 pounds of beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes. It’s crucial to **pat the beef cubes thoroughly dry with paper towels**. This step is vital because excess moisture prevents browning; a dry surface allows for a beautiful, flavorful crust to form.
   * In a medium bowl, combine the dried beef cubes with 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. **Toss the beef vigorously until each cube is evenly coated**. The flour mixture will help achieve that golden-brown sear and will also act as a natural thickener for your Crock Pot Beef Stew later on.
2. Sear the Beef to Lock in Richness:
   * Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be shimmering but not smoking.
   * Once hot, **add the floured beef to the skillet in batches**. Do not overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding will lower the temperature of the oil, steaming the beef instead of browning it. Give the beef space to sear properly, about 2-3 minutes per side, until well-sealed and beautifully browned.
   * As each batch is seared, **transfer the browned beef directly to your 6-quart (or larger) crock pot**. This foundational step builds incredible depth of flavor for your ultimate Crock Pot Beef Stew.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
   * Using the same skillet (don’t clean it yet – those browned bits are flavor gold!), **add the 1 large chopped yellow onion**. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and becomes translucent, which usually takes about 5 minutes. The onions will absorb some of the beef drippings, adding to their sweetness.
   * Next, **add the 3 cloves of minced garlic** to the softened onions. Cook for just one more minute, stirring constantly, until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
4. Build the Savory Liquid Base:
   * Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste with the onions and garlic. **Cook for 1 minute**, pressing the tomato paste against the bottom of the pan as you stir. This step, known as “cooking out” the tomato paste, intensifies its flavor and removes any raw taste, contributing a deep, umami richness to your Crock Pot Beef Stew.
   * Now, pour in 4 cups of beef broth and 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce. **Immediately use a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan**. This process, called deglazing, releases all those concentrated flavors back into the liquid, forming the foundation of your stew’s delicious gravy.
   * Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing all the flavors to meld together.
5. Combine and Infuse in the Crock Pot:
   * Carefully pour the hot liquid mixture from the skillet over the browned beef in the crock pot.
   * Add the 1 bay leaf and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. **Stir gently to combine all the ingredients**, ensuring the beef is well-coated in the flavorful liquid. The bay leaf and thyme will slowly infuse the stew with their aromatic essence during cooking.
6. Add the Hearty Vegetables:
   * Now, add your prepared vegetables: the 1 1/2 pounds of chopped potatoes, 3-4 sliced carrots, and 2-3 sliced celery stalks to the crock pot.
   * **Gently stir everything together** once more. It’s important to try and submerge the vegetables in the liquid as much as possible to ensure even cooking and absorption of flavors. Don’t worry if a few pieces are exposed; they will still cook as the liquid heats and steams.
7. Slow Cook to Perfection:
   * Cover the crock pot tightly with its lid.
   * **Cook on LOW for 7-8 hours, or on HIGH for 3-4 hours**, until the beef is fork-tender and the vegetables are soft. The longer cooking time on LOW generally yields a more tender beef and a deeper flavor profile, as it allows the ingredients more time to break down and meld.
8. Finishing Touches:
   * If you’re using them, stir in 1 cup of frozen peas during the **last 15-20 minutes of cooking**. This ensures they retain their vibrant color and fresh texture.
   * Before serving, **remember to remove and discard the bay leaf**. It has done its job of infusing flavor.
   * Taste the Crock Pot Beef Stew and **adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed**. Sometimes, the long cooking process can mellow flavors, so a final seasoning check is important.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
   * Ladle the hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew into warm bowls.
   * Serve hot, perhaps with a side of crusty bread or a light salad, for a complete and satisfying meal. Enjoy the fruits of your effortless labor!

Tips and Variations to Elevate Your Crock Pot Beef Stew

While the classic Crock Pot Beef Stew recipe is perfect as is, there are many ways to customize it to your taste, dietary needs, or simply to add a new twist. Here are some tips and variations to help you make this already fantastic dish even better, along with advice to avoid common pitfalls.

Ingredient Alternatives and Specific Versions:

• For a Gluten-Free Crock Pot Beef Stew: Instead of all-purpose flour for coating the beef, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (ensure it contains xanthan gum for thickening) or cornstarch. If using cornstarch, use about half the amount (2 tablespoons) and mix it with an equal amount of cold water to create a slurry. Add this slurry during the last 30 minutes of cooking to thicken the stew. Always check that your beef broth and Worcestershire sauce are certified gluten-free.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to experiment with other root vegetables. Parsnips can add a lovely subtle sweetness and earthy flavor. Turnips offer a slightly peppery note. You could also add sliced mushrooms (add them with the onions for a deeper flavor, or towards the end for a firmer texture), or even a cup of diced butternut squash for extra sweetness and nutrition. For greens, a handful of fresh spinach or kale can be stirred in during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
• Herb and Spice Boost: For additional complexity, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky note, or a sprig of fresh rosemary along with the thyme and bay leaf. A dash of red pepper flakes can introduce a hint of warmth if you like a little spice.
• Wine or Beer Infusion: For an even richer, deeper flavor, replace 1 cup of beef broth with 1 cup of dry red wine (like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot) or a dark beer (like a stout or porter). Add it during step 4, allowing it to simmer and reduce slightly before pouring over the beef. The alcohol will cook off, leaving behind a wonderful depth of flavor.
• Make it Creamier: For a slightly richer, creamier Crock Pot Beef Stew, you can stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream during the last 15 minutes of cooking, or just before serving. This adds a velvety texture and a touch of tang.
• Leaner Meat Option: While chuck roast is highly recommended for its tenderness and flavor, you could use a leaner cut like round roast if you prefer. Just be aware that it might not become as melt-in-your-mouth tender and may require slightly longer cooking times on low.

Advice to Avoid Common Mistakes:

• Don’t Skip Browning the Beef: This is arguably the most crucial step for flavor development. Simply tossing raw beef into the crock pot will result in a much less flavorful stew. The browning creates complex savory notes that truly elevate your Crock Pot Beef Stew.
• Avoid Overcrowding the Skillet: When browning the beef, work in batches. If you put too much beef in the pan at once, the temperature will drop, and the meat will steam instead of sear, resulting in grey, unappetizing pieces rather than beautifully browned ones.
• Don’t Forget to Deglaze: Those browned bits at the bottom of your skillet after searing the beef and sautéing the aromatics are packed with flavor. When you add the broth and Worcestershire sauce, make sure to scrape up all those bits. This is where a significant portion of your stew’s deep flavor comes from.
• Add Peas at the End: If using frozen peas, resist the urge to add them at the beginning of the cooking process. Adding them too early will cause them to turn mushy and lose their vibrant green color. Stirring them in during the last 15-20 minutes ensures they are perfectly cooked, tender-crisp, and brightly colored.
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: After hours of slow cooking, flavors can sometimes mellow or concentrate. Always do a final taste test before serving your Crock Pot Beef Stew and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. A pinch more salt can awaken all the flavors.
• Ensure Vegetables are Submerged: While not all vegetables may be completely covered by liquid, try to stir them into the broth as much as possible. This helps them cook evenly and absorb the wonderful flavors.
• Resist Opening the Lid: Every time you lift the lid of your Crock Pot, a significant amount of heat escapes, and it takes time for the slow cooker to get back up to temperature. This can extend cooking times considerably. Only open it when necessary (e.g., to add peas or stir at the end).

By following these tips and exploring these variations, you can confidently create an exceptional Crock Pot Beef Stew tailored exactly to your preferences every time.

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Crock Pot Beef Stew

This Crock Pot Beef Stew is not just a delicious and comforting meal; it’s also packed with nutritional benefits that make it a wholesome choice for your family. While exact nutritional values can vary based on specific brands of ingredients and portion sizes, we can provide estimated ranges and highlight the key contributions of each component.

Estimated Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):

A typical serving (around 1.5 – 2 cups) of Crock Pot Beef Stew might provide:

• Calories: 350-500 kcal (depending on beef fat content, oil used, and portion size)
• Protein: 30-40g (excellent source from beef)
• Fats: 15-25g (includes saturated and unsaturated fats from beef and olive oil)
• Carbohydrates: 30-45g (from flour, potatoes, carrots, onions, etc.)
• Fiber: 5-8g (from vegetables)
• Sodium: 600-900mg (can be reduced by using low-sodium broth and adjusting added salt)
• Vitamins & Minerals: Significant amounts of Vitamin A (carrots), Vitamin C (potatoes, peas), Potassium (potatoes), Iron (beef), Zinc (beef), and B Vitamins (beef, vegetables).

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients:

• Beef Chuck Roast:
  • High-Quality Protein: Beef is an excellent source of complete protein, essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
  • Iron: Provides heme iron, which is easily absorbed by the body and crucial for oxygen transport in the blood, preventing anemia.
  • Zinc: Important for immune function, wound healing, and DNA synthesis.
  • B Vitamins: Rich in B12, B6, niacin, and riboflavin, which are vital for energy metabolism, nerve function, and red blood cell formation.
• Potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet):
  • Complex Carbohydrates: Provide sustained energy.
  • Potassium: Important for blood pressure regulation and fluid balance.
  • Vitamin C: An antioxidant that supports immune health.
  • Fiber: Contributes to digestive health, especially if eaten with the skin on (though this recipe calls for peeling).
• Carrots:
  • Vitamin A (Beta-Carotene): Extremely high in beta-carotene, which converts to Vitamin A in the body, essential for vision, immune function, and skin health.
  • Fiber: Aids in digestion and promotes satiety.
  • Antioxidants: Contain various antioxidants that help protect cells from damage.
• Celery:
  • Low Calorie and Hydrating: Mostly water, it adds bulk and nutrients without many calories.
  • Fiber: Supports digestive health.
  • Vitamins K and C: Contribute to bone health and immune function.
• Onions and Garlic:
  • Antioxidants: Both are rich in antioxidants and compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Immune Support: Known for their potential to boost the immune system.
  • Flavor Enhancers: Beyond nutrition, they add incredible depth and aromatic complexity to the stew.
• Peas (Optional):
  • Plant-Based Protein: A good source of protein for a vegetable.
  • Fiber: High in dietary fiber, which aids digestion.
  • Vitamins and Minerals: Contain Vitamin K, Vitamin C, folate, and manganese.

In essence, this Crock Pot Beef Stew is a balanced meal that provides significant amounts of protein, complex carbohydrates, essential vitamins, and minerals. It’s a prime example of how comfort food can also be incredibly nutritious, supporting a healthy lifestyle while satisfying your cravings for a hearty, warming dish. Enjoying a bowl of this stew is truly nourishing for both body and soul.

FAQs about Crock Pot Beef Stew

Conclusion: Your New Favorite Crock Pot Beef Stew

There’s an undeniable magic that happens when humble ingredients are transformed by the slow, gentle heat of a Crock Pot, and this Crock Pot Beef Stew recipe is a prime example. We’ve walked through every step, from the crucial browning of the beef that locks in incredible flavor to the patient simmering that turns a tough cut into fork-tender perfection. This stew isn’t just a meal; it’s a testament to the power of slow cooking, providing a deeply satisfying, incredibly flavorful, and wonderfully convenient dinner solution for any day of the week.

You’ve learned why this specific Crock Pot Beef Stew stands out – its convenience, its rich, layered flavor profile, and its comforting texture. We’ve explored the importance of each ingredient, from the protein-packed beef to the nutrient-rich medley of vegetables, and highlighted the simple tools that make this recipe a breeze. With detailed instructions and practical tips, you’re now equipped to avoid common pitfalls and ensure your stew is consistently delicious. Furthermore, understanding the nutritional benefits underscores that this hearty dish is not only good for the soul but also for the body, providing essential proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Whether you’re new to slow cooking or a seasoned pro, this Crock Pot Beef Stew is guaranteed to become a cherished addition to your recipe collection. It offers the perfect balance of ease and gourmet taste, allowing you to enjoy more time with loved ones while a culinary masterpiece simmers to perfection. Imagine the delightful aroma filling your home, signaling that a warm, hearty meal is just moments away. So, why wait? Gather your ingredients, dust off your slow cooker, and prepare to embark on a truly satisfying culinary journey. We encourage you to try this ultimate Crock Pot Beef Stew recipe tonight. Once you do, please share your experience in the comments below – we love hearing how our recipes bring joy to your kitchen! And if you’re looking for more quick and easy dinner ideas, be sure to check out our easy Mediterranean ground beef stir-fry for another delicious option. Happy cooking!

Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew

This comforting Crock Pot Beef Stew is packed with tender beef, root vegetables, and a rich, savory broth. Perfect for a cozy family dinner with minimal hands-on time.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 hours hrs

Total Time 8 hours hrs 25 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American, Comfort Food

Servings 6 servings

Calories 550 kcal

Equipment

• 6-Quart or Larger Crock Pot (Slow Cooker)
• Large skillet or Dutch oven
• Medium Bowl
• Cutting Board
• Sharp Knife

Ingredients

  

Stew Ingredients

• 2 pounds beef chuck roast cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion chopped
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 1/2 pounds potatoes (such as Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
• 3-4 medium carrots peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 2-3 celery stalks sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels. In a medium bowl, toss the beef with the flour, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches, about 2-3 minutes per side, until well-sealed. Do not overcrowd the pan. Transfer browned beef to a 6-quart or larger crock pot.
• In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
• Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer.

Slow Cooking

• Pour the liquid mixture over the beef in the crock pot. Add the bay leaf and dried thyme. Stir gently to combine.
• Add the chopped potatoes, carrots, and celery to the crock pot. Gently stir everything together so the vegetables are submerged in the liquid as much as possible.
• Cover the crock pot and cook on LOW for 7-8 hours, or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the beef is fork-tender and the vegetables are soft.

Finishing and Serving

• If desired, stir in the frozen peas during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking. Remove and discard the bay leaf before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
• Ladle the hearty beef stew into bowls and serve hot. Excellent with crusty bread or a side salad.

Notes

For a thicker stew, you can create a slurry with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water, then stir it into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Keyword beef, comfort food, crock pot, easy, hearty, one-pot meal, slow cooker, stew, vegetables