This Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew is a warm hug in a bowl. Tender beef, yummy veggies, and flavorful broth simmer together for hours, making it super easy and delicious!
I love how I can just toss everything in the pot, set it, and forget it. Plus, my house smells amazing while it cooks. Who doesn’t love coming home to that? 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: Look for chuck roast; it becomes tender and flavorful. If you’re avoiding red meat, you can swap it for chicken thighs or even portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian option!
White Flour: This thickens your stew, but you can use cornstarch or gluten-free flour if needed. Just mix it with a bit of cold water before adding, so it doesn’t clump.
Beef Broth: Homemade is fantastic but store-bought works well too. For a lighter option, use vegetable broth, though it will change the stew’s flavor slightly.
Red Wine: This adds depth, but if you prefer not to use it, feel free to stick with beef broth. You can also use grape juice for acidity without alcohol.
Vegetables: Carrots and potatoes are classic, but you can mix in parsnips or sweet potatoes. Frozen veggies like green beans can also be added at the end for extra color.
How Do I Ensure My Beef Is Perfectly Tender?
The secret to tender beef is the slow cooking method. The longer you let it cook, the more tender it gets! Here’s how to achieve that:
- Brown the beef in batches for flavor. This step adds a lot to the stew.
- Cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. Low and slow is key!
- Don’t lift the lid too often—each peek adds cooking time!
Follow these tips, and you’ll have a deliciously tender beef stew that warms the soul.
Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with extra beef broth)
- 3 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 cup frozen peas
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious stew requires about 20 minutes of prep time. Set it in the crock pot, and then let it cook on low for about 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. It’s perfect for preparing in the morning, then coming home to a warm, hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
Start by seasoning the beef cubes with salt and pepper in a large bowl. Then, sprinkle the flour over the meat and toss it all together until the beef pieces are well coated. This helps to thicken your stew later on.
2. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. In batches, add the beef to the skillet and sear it on all sides until it’s nicely browned. Don’t overcrowd the pan; you want a good sear for flavor! Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside.
3. Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot:
Pour the beef broth and red wine (if using) into the crock pot. Scrape any browned bits from the skillet into the broth for extra flavor. Next, add the browned beef along with the carrots, potatoes, onion, garlic, celery, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Give it all a nice stir to mix everything together.
4. Slow Cook:
Cover the crock pot. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through. The slow cooking really brings out the flavors!
5. Final Touches:
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas. Remember to remove the bay leaves, as they’re not edible. Give the stew a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if necessary.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish the stew with fresh chopped parsley just before serving. It’s great on its own or served with crusty bread or over egg noodles. Enjoy your hearty, comforting beef stew!
FAQ for Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew
Can I Use Frozen Beef Stew Meat?
Yes, you can use frozen beef stew meat, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost function on your microwave. Pat it dry before seasoning and coating with flour.
What Can I Substitute for Red Wine?
If you prefer not to use red wine, simply replace it with an additional cup of beef broth. You can also use grape juice or omit it altogether; just add a splash of vinegar for acidity to enhance the flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover beef stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just let it cool before transferring to a freezer-safe container, where it can last up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge and reheat on the stove.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, parsnips, or green beans. Just remember to chop them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking. Add any quick-cooking vegetables like peas in the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent them from getting mushy.
