Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew

For the Seasoning:

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (for a subtle smoky flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (for extra flavor)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for richness)

For Thickening the Stew:

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free option)
• 1/4 cup cold water (for making a slurry)

How to Make Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew

This crock pot recipe couldn’t be easier! Simply gather your ingredients, layer them in the slow cooker, and let it cook low and slow for a delicious, hearty stew that’s ready to enjoy.

Step 1: Prepare the Meat and Vegetables

Start by cutting the beef stew meat into bite-sized cubes. If desired, you can brown the meat in a skillet for added flavor, though this step is optional if you prefer a quicker method. Next, chop the vegetables—dice the potatoes, slice the carrots, chop the onion and celery, and mince the garlic.

Step 2: Add Ingredients to the Crock Pot

Place the beef stew meat, potatoes, carrots, onion, garlic, and celery into the slow cooker. Add the beef broth, tomato paste (if using), and seasonings: thyme, rosemary, paprika, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Toss everything together to combine and make sure the meat and vegetables are submerged in the broth.

Step 3: Cook the Stew

Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The longer you cook it, the more tender the beef will be, and the flavors will have time to develop. About 30 minutes before the stew is finished cooking, add in the frozen peas, if using. This gives them just enough time to cook through without getting too mushy.

Step 4: Thicken the Stew

Once the stew is done cooking and the beef is tender, you can thicken the broth if desired. To do this, create a slurry by mixing the flour with cold water in a small bowl. Slowly stir this mixture into the stew, and let it cook on high for another 15-20 minutes. This will help thicken the broth to your preferred consistency. If you’re using cornstarch instead of flour, use the same ratio and method for the slurry.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Before serving, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or Worcestershire sauce if needed. Remove the bay leaves, and serve the stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if you like.

Optional Add-ins and Variations

• More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like parsnips, turnips, or sweet potatoes for a fun twist. You can also throw in some green beans or corn for added texture and flavor.
• Herbs and Spices: You can adjust the seasonings to your liking—add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for heat or a bit of dried oregano for a Mediterranean twist. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can be added at the end for freshness.
• Red Wine: For an added depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the broth. Let it cook down with the stew for a rich, savory note.
• Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms for an earthy, umami flavor that pairs well with the beef.

Tips for the Best Crock Pot Beef Stew

1. Use Chuck Roast: For the most tender and flavorful stew, use chuck roast. This cut of beef is marbled with fat, which breaks down during slow cooking and makes the meat incredibly tender. It’s perfect for stews and braises.
2. Don’t Skip Browning the Meat: While optional, browning the beef in a hot skillet before adding it to the crock pot can really enhance the flavor of the stew. The caramelization of the meat adds a rich, savory depth to the broth.
3. Adjust Consistency: If your stew turns out too thin, don’t hesitate to add a little more flour or cornstarch to thicken it. Conversely, if it’s too thick, add a splash more broth to loosen it up.
4. Make it Ahead: Beef stew is even better the next day. Make it the night before and refrigerate overnight. Reheat and enjoy—it gives the flavors time to deepen and develop.
5. Serve with Bread: This stew is the perfect partner for a loaf of crusty bread or some soft dinner rolls. Use the bread to sop up all that delicious, savory broth!

Why You’ll Love Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew

• Tender and Flavorful: The slow cooking method allows the beef to become fall-apart tender, while the broth becomes rich and flavorful, absorbing the taste of the vegetables and seasonings.
• Comforting and Filling: This stew is the ultimate comfort food, filling you up with its hearty ingredients and satisfying textures.
• Convenient and Hands-Off: Let the slow cooker do all the work for you. With just a little prep, you can set it and forget it until dinner time!
• Perfect for Leftovers: Beef stew only gets better after a day or two in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying leftovers throughout the week.

Conclusion

Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings, busy nights, or any time you’re craving something warm and hearty. With tender beef, rich broth, and hearty vegetables, this stew will quickly become a family favorite. It’s simple to make, easy to customize, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want a delicious meal for the week, this slow cooker recipe is sure to hit the spot!