Crockpot Beef Stew

Name: Crockpot Beef Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Yield: 4-6 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch pieces; 4 carrots, sliced; 3 potatoes, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups beef broth; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Warm up your evenings with this hearty Crockpot Beef Stew, a comforting classic that simmers to perfection with tender chunks of beef, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs. Effortlessly prepared in your slow cooker, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights and delivers rich flavors that will satisfy the whole family. Enjoy the convenience of a one-pot meal and let the flavors meld together while you go about your day.

Created by

Maya Richardson

Last updated on 2025-11-26T15:01:11.059Z

This delicious Crockpot Beef Stew is not only easy to make, but it's also a family favorite. Perfect for cold evenings.

Why Slow Cooking?

Slow cooking is a fantastic way to prepare meals that are not only delicious but also incredibly convenient. By allowing ingredients to simmer together over several hours, this method enhances the flavors, resulting in a rich, hearty dish that warms the soul. It’s the perfect approach for busy individuals looking to save time in the kitchen without sacrificing quality or taste.

With a crockpot, you can set it and forget it! Simply prepare your ingredients in the morning, set your slow cooker to cook, and by dinner time, you’ll have a warm, satisfying meal waiting for you. This crockpot beef stew is a prime example of how slow cooking can transform simple ingredients into something special, making it ideal for families on the go.

Perfect Pairings

Crockpot Beef Stew pairs beautifully with a variety of sides that can also be prepared effortlessly. Serve it alongside crusty bread or soft dinner rolls to soak up the flavorful broth. A fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the stew, making for a balanced meal.

For a heartier option, consider serving the beef stew over a bed of mashed potatoes or alongside some creamy polenta. The creaminess of these sides will complement the robust flavors of the stew, ensuring each bite is packed with satisfaction. Whichever you choose, this meal is bound to impress!

Storage and Reheating Tips

One of the great benefits of this crockpot beef stew is its shelf life. After preparing it, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Properly stored, this stew can last for up to three months in the freezer, allowing you to enjoy it at a later date without losing flavor.

When it comes time to reheat your stew, do so gently on the stove over low heat until warmed through. If frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator before reheating. Adding a splash of beef broth or water can help restore some moisture, ensuring your stew remains as delicious as the day it was made. Enjoy the convenience of leftovers without compromising taste!

Ingredients

For the Stew

2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch pieces
4 carrots, sliced
3 potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Gather all the ingredients before starting to make the process easier.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large bowl, season the beef with salt and pepper. Place the beef in the slow cooker.

Add Vegetables

Add the carrots, potatoes, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker.

Mix Broth

In a separate bowl, mix the beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme. Pour over the ingredients in the slow cooker.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, until the beef is tender.

Once cooked, stir well and serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Enhancing the Flavor

To elevate your crockpot beef stew, consider adding a splash of red wine to the broth mixture. It introduces depth and complexity, making the flavors even more robust. Additionally, experimenting with different herbs like rosemary or bay leaves can provide a unique twist that personalizes the recipe to your taste.

You can also incorporate seasonal vegetables to make the dish even more nutritious and flavorful. Adding mushrooms, peas, or bell peppers can enhance the texture and provide additional nutrients while offering a variety of tastes.

Customizing Your Stew

Don't hesitate to customize your beef stew to suit your family's preferences. For those who prefer a thicker stew, whisk together a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water and stir it into the stew during the last hour of cooking. This will create a more hearty consistency that is quite appealing.

If you have dietary restrictions or are looking for a lighter option, you can replace the beef with chicken or even make a vegetarian version using lentils or beans. Just be mindful of adjusting the cooking times, as different proteins require varying amounts of time to reach tenderness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen meat?

It's best to thaw the beef before cooking for even cooking.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, you can add peas, green beans, or bell peppers.