🔹️ Crockpot Beef Stew Recipe: The Ultimate Comfort Food Classic
There’s nothing quite like coming home to the warm, mouthwatering aroma of Crockpot Beef Stew simmering away after a long day. This dish is the definition of comfort food — tender chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich, savory broth that warms you from the inside out.
✅️ Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this easy slow cooker beef stew is a timeless classic that delivers rich flavor with minimal effort.
🔹️ Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Beef Stew
- 👉 Effortless preparation: Just a few minutes of prep time, then your slow cooker takes over.
- 👉 Incredible flavor: Browning the beef creates a deep, rich stew base.
- 👉 Nutritious & filling: Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
- 👉 Perfect for busy days: Set it and forget it — dinner’s ready when you are.
🔹️ Ingredients (and Why They Matter)
- ➡️ 2 pounds boneless stewing beef cubes or chuck: The star of the dish; slow cooking makes it melt-in-your-mouth tender.
- ➡️ 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided): Helps brown the meat and adds a silky texture.
- ➡️ ½ medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and aromatic depth.
- ➡️ 6 cloves garlic, minced: Boosts flavor and richness.
- ➡️ 4 large carrots, peeled & cut: Add natural sweetness and color.
- ➡️ 3 sticks celery, chopped: Provides earthy notes and balance.
- ➡️ 1 pound Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled & diced: Hearty and hold their shape perfectly.
- ➡️ 3 cups beef broth: The flavorful base that keeps everything moist.
- ➡️ 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste: Adds thickness and tangy richness.
- ➡️ 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Delivers that umami magic.
- ➡️ 1 teaspoon salt & pepper to taste: Enhances and balances all the flavors.
- ➡️ 3 bay leaves: Infuse gentle herbal aromas.
- ➡️ 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional): Thickens the stew for a luscious texture.
🔹️ Step-by-Step Instructions
✅️ Step 1: Brown the Beef
- ◾️ Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- ◾️ Add half the beef and sear until browned on all sides.
- ◾️ Remove, repeat with remaining beef, then transfer everything (and juices) to the slow cooker.
✅️ Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- ◾️ Add onions to the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes.
- ◾️ Stir in garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- ◾️ Transfer to the slow cooker.
✅️ Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- ◾️ Add carrots, celery, potatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
- ◾️ Stir gently to mix well.
✅️ Step 4: Add Bay Leaves & Cook
- ◾️ Nestle the bay leaves into the mixture.
- ◾️ Cook on LOW for 10 hours (or HIGH for 6 hours) until beef is fork-tender.
✅️ Step 5: Thicken the Stew (Optional)
- ◾️ Mix 2 tbsp cornstarch with cold water.
- ◾️ Stir into the stew during the last 20 minutes for a thicker, creamier texture.
🔹️ Pro Tips for the Perfect Stew
- ➡️ Brown your beef first – Locks in deep, savory flavor.
- ➡️ Use Yukon Gold potatoes – They stay firm and buttery.
- ➡️ Cut vegetables evenly – Ensures consistent cooking.
- ➡️ Let it rest 10–15 minutes – Helps the flavors meld beautifully.
- ➡️ Optional splash of red wine – Adds gourmet-level richness.
🔹️ Serving Suggestions
- ✅️ Serve with buttery mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or fluffy rice to soak up the savory broth.
- ✅️ Pair with a fresh green salad or steamed green beans for a balanced, complete meal.
🔹️ Why Everyone Loves This Recipe
- 👉 It’s simple, comforting, and foolproof — every bite delivers tender beef and rich, flavorful gravy.
- 👉 Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or cozy winter nights.
🔹️ Final Thoughts: Easy, Hearty & Irresistible
✅️ This Crockpot Beef Stew is everything a home-cooked meal should be — simple ingredients, bold flavor, and effortless preparation.
✅️ Just set it in the morning, and by dinnertime, you’ll have a rich, soul-warming stew that tastes like love in a bowl.
➡️ Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this recipe guarantees a perfectly cooked, delicious meal every single time.
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