Description
CrockPot Beef Stew
Ingredients
2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
3 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 cup frozen peas
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth
3 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
2 tsp dried thyme
2 bay leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
Directions
Add beef stew meat, potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic to the CrockPot.
Pour in beef broth, then stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaves. Season with salt and pepper.
Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender.
Add frozen peas during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Optional: To thicken the stew, mix 2 tbsp of flour with 2 tbsp water to create a slurry. Stir it into the stew and let it cook for another 10 minutes.
Remove bay leaves before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours (LOW) / 4-5 hours (HIGH)
Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 350 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep the Ingredients: Dice the onion, potatoes, and carrots. Chop the celery and mince the garlic. Pat the beef cubes dry with a paper towel and season generously with salt and pepper.
2. Layer the CrockPot: Place the seasoned beef at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic on top.
3. Add Liquids & Seasonings: In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and dried thyme. Pour this mixture over the ingredients in the pot. Add the bay leaves.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours, until the beef is fork-tender.
5. Final Touches: In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen peas. For a thicker stew, create a slurry by mixing 2 tbsp flour with 2 tbsp cold water until smooth. Stir the slurry into the stew, cover, and cook for the final 10-15 minutes.
6. Serve: Discard the bay leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning. Ladle into bowls and garnish.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty stew is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or flaky biscuits for dipping. For a lighter option, serve it over a bed of mashed cauliflower or with a simple side salad dressed with a bright vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme adds color and freshness.
How-to Summary
Season and layer beef and vegetables in a slow cooker. Combine broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire, and thyme, then pour over the top. Cook on LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours. Add peas in the last 30 minutes. Thicken with a flour slurry if desired, then serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I brown the beef first? Yes! Searing the beef in a hot skillet before adding it to the CrockPot adds incredible depth of flavor. It’s an optional but highly recommended step.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried? Absolutely. Use one tablespoon of fresh thyme in place of the two teaspoons of dried. Add fresh herbs in the last hour of cooking for the best flavor.
How can I make this gluten-free? Omit the flour slurry. Instead, use one tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with two tablespoons of cold water to thicken the stew.
Can I add other vegetables? Sure. Mushrooms, parsnips, or turnips are excellent additions. Add sturdy vegetables at the beginning and delicate ones (like peas) near the end.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it has thickened too much.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overfilling the Slow Cooker: Fill it no more than two-thirds full to ensure even cooking and prevent overflow.
- Adding Dairy Too Early: If you choose to add a creamy element, stir it in during the last 30 minutes to prevent curdling.
- Underseasoning: Slow cookers mellow flavors. Season adequately at the beginning and always taste and adjust at the end.
- Lifting the Lid: Avoid peeking! Each time you lift the lid, significant heat escapes, adding to the cooking time.
Conclusion
This CrockPot Beef Stew is the ultimate set-and-forget comfort meal, delivering tender beef and rich, savory flavors with minimal effort. Its versatility allows for easy customization based on your pantry and preferences. By following this guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll have a foolproof, satisfying dinner that makes everyone ask for seconds. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.