This Easy Crockpot Beef Stew is perfect for chilly evenings! With tender beef, hearty veggies, and flavorful broth, it warms you right up. You just toss everything in the pot and let it cook!
I love coming home to the smell of this stew after a long day. It’s a hug in a bowl! Plus, it’s super easy to make—you can enjoy it with some crusty bread to soak up the goodness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: Look for chuck roast or similar cuts, as they become tender after slow cooking. If you prefer leaner meat, sirloin is a good option, but may not be as melt-in-your-mouth good as chuck.
Carrots: Fresh carrots add a sweet touch. If you don’t have fresh ones, use frozen mixed vegetables; just add them later in the cooking process to prevent overcooking.
Red Wine: This adds depth and flavor to the stew. If you prefer not to use wine, simply replace it with additional beef broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar for a bit of acidity.
Dried Herbs: Thyme and rosemary pair wonderfully with beef. Fresh herbs can be used if you have them on hand; just double the amount as they are less concentrated.
How Do You Achieve Tender Beef in Your Stew?
Cooking the beef until tender is key for a great stew. The secret lies in searing the meat before adding it to the crockpot. This locks in juices and adds flavor. Follow these steps:
- Coat the beef cubes in flour, salt, and pepper. This helps to thicken the stew later and enhances browning.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef in batches—avoid overcrowding the pan!
- Once browned, transfer the beef to your crockpot. This method helps develop a great flavor base.
Taking your time to sear the beef is worth it for the rich, beefy taste in your final dish!
Easy Crockpot Beef Stew Recipe for Cozy Nights
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with more beef broth)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup frozen peas (added near the end)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious beef stew takes about 20 minutes of prep time, plus 7-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crockpot for everything to simmer to delicious tenderness. You can set it in the morning and come home to warm, hearty goodness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Meat:
In a large bowl, toss the beef stew meat with flour, salt, and pepper. This coating will help thicken the stew as it cooks. It’s essential to season the meat well at this stage for the best flavor!
2. Searing the Beef:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches so they sear well and get a nice brown crust on all sides. This step adds a lot of flavor! Once browned, transfer the beef to the crockpot.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until they are fragrant and the onions have turned translucent. This will give your stew a wonderful smell and flavor. Once done, transfer them to the crockpot with the beef.
4. Add Vegetables and Liquids:
Add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves into the crockpot. Give everything a gentle stir to combine all the flavors evenly.
5. Cooking Time:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You want the beef to be tender, and the veggies cooked through. The low and slow method really enhances the flavors!
6. Final Touches:
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas. They add a pop of color and sweetness to the stew. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed; let it continue cooking until heated through.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, remove the bay leaves before serving. Dish up this hearty beef stew in bowls and enjoy it hot! It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a green salad for a complete meal. Cozy nights just got better!
Enjoy your cozy night with this hearty, flavorful beef stew!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! While the recipe recommends beef stew meat, you can substitute with chuck roast or even leaner cuts like sirloin. For a lighter option, try using chicken breasts or thighs; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What If I Don’t Have Red Wine?
No problem! You can simply omit the wine and replace it with an extra cup of beef broth. Alternatively, a splash of balsamic vinegar can add a nice depth of flavor without using wine.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of broth to bring back its original consistency!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to get creative—add peas, corn, or even mushrooms to enhance the flavor and texture. Just remember to add delicate veggies like peas toward the end of the cooking time to prevent them from becoming mushy.