This beef stew is a warm and filling dish, perfect for chilly days. With tender beef, tasty veggies, and savory broth, it’s sure to make your tummy happy!
Making this stew in a crock pot means less work for you. Just toss everything in, set it, and relax while it cooks! Who doesn’t love a meal that practically makes itself? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck: This cut has great marbling, making it juicy and tender slow-cooked. If you prefer leaner meat, sirloin or round steak work in a pinch, though the stew may be less rich.
Red Wine: It adds depth and flavor. If you want to skip it, just use more beef broth. A splash of vinegar can help mimic the acidity if desired!
Vegetables: Carrots, potatoes, and celery bring heartiness. Feel free to swap in parsnips or sweet potatoes for variety. Mushrooms can also be a tasty addition!
Herbs: Dried thyme and rosemary give wonderful flavor. Fresh herbs can enhance the taste even more; just double the amount listed. You could also try oregano or bay leaves for a different vibe.
How Do You Get the Beef Perfectly Browned?
Browning the beef adds depth to the stew’s flavor. Always heat the skillet well before adding oil and beef. Here are the steps:
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high until it shimmers, but not smoking.
- Don’t crowd the pan; brown beef in batches for that golden crust.
- Cook each side for about 2-3 minutes until browned, then transfer to the crock pot.
This simple technique makes a big difference in flavor and is worth the little extra time! Enjoy your cooking!
Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1- to 1½-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with more beef broth)
- 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious stew requires about 20 minutes of preparation time. Once everything is in the crock pot, it will cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Perfect for a cozy day when you want to set it and forget it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
In a large bowl, combine the beef cubes with flour, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the beef is evenly coated. This step helps create a rich flavor and thickness in the stew as it cooks.
2. Brown the Beef:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef cubes in batches, browning them on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the browned beef to your crock pot.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant. Transfer this mixture to the crock pot with the beef.
4. Add the Liquids and Seasoning:
Pour the beef broth and red wine (if using) into the crock pot. Add the tomato paste, dried thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Give everything a gentle stir to combine the ingredients well.
5. Add the Vegetables:
Now, add the prepared carrots, potatoes, and celery to the crock pot. Cover the pot with its lid, ensuring it’s sealed tightly.
6. Let it Cook:
Set your crock pot on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The stew is ready when the beef and vegetables are tender and flavorful.
7. Final Touches:
About 30 minutes before you are ready to eat, stir in the frozen peas. Taste the stew and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, remove the bay leaves. Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy your warm, comforting, and flavorful Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew!
FAQ for Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew
Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef?
Absolutely! While beef chuck is ideal for its tenderness and flavor, you can also use brisket or round steak. Just remember that cooking times may vary based on the cut, so adjust accordingly for tenderness.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Sure! To make the stew gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. Mix the cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry before adding it to the stew for thickening.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it in portions for up to 3 months. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to regain creaminess.
What Can I Serve with This Stew?
This hearty stew is perfect on its own, but for a complete meal, consider pairing it with crusty bread, a side salad, or over rice or mashed potatoes to soak up all that delicious broth!
