Ultimate Slow Cooker Beef Stew: Easy & Flavorful Recipe

The aroma of slow-cooked beef stew fills the kitchen, wrapping you in a warm hug of savory goodness. Picture tender chunks of beef swimming in a rich broth, with carrots and potatoes soaking up all that flavor. You can almost taste the depth of every herb and spice, promising an unforgettable meal.

I remember the first time I made this slow cooker beef stew. My family came running when they caught a whiff of it simmering away, their eyes lighting up like kids on Christmas morning. It’s perfect for chilly evenings or cozy gatherings, making everyone feel right at home while savoring each hearty bowl.

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of serving this dish on a cold winter night and watching everyone dig in with smiles. It’s become a staple in our home!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Chuck Roast: Look for well-marbled cuts; they add a lovely richness when slow-cooked.

• Carrots: Fresh carrots are best; they bring sweetness and vibrant color to your stew.

• Potatoes: Use Yukon Gold or russet potatoes; they hold their shape well during cooking.

• Onions: Yellow onions add a sweet base flavor; chop them finely for even cooking.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide an aromatic punch; don’t skimp on these little gems!

• Beef Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth; it allows you to control the saltiness of your stew.

• Herbs (Thyme and Bay Leaves): Fresh thyme is preferred for its vibrant flavor; bay leaves add depth.

• Worcestershire Sauce: A splash enhances the umami flavors; it’s like magic in a bottle!

• Salt and Pepper: Season generously to taste—these staples elevate all other flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by dicing your chuck roast into bite-sized pieces. Then chop the onions, slice the carrots, and cube the potatoes into uniform sizes for even cooking.

Sear the Beef (Optional): If you’re feeling fancy, heat a bit of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef until browned on all sides—this step adds amazing depth to your stew.

Add Everything to the Slow Cooker: Transfer the seared beef (or raw if skipping that step) into your slow cooker. Toss in the chopped onions, carrots, potatoes, minced garlic, thyme sprigs, and bay leaves.

Pour in Broth and Seasonings: Pour enough beef broth to cover everything but not drown it—about 4 cups should do! Add Worcestershire sauce along with salt and pepper to taste.

Cook Low and Slow: Set your slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The smells will start wafting through your house as if inviting everyone to dinner!

Check for Tenderness and Serve!: When ready, check that beef is fork-tender—if not quite there yet, let it cook longer. Remove bay leaves before serving; they’re not meant to be eaten!

Enjoy each spoonful of this comforting slow cooker beef stew that warms both body and soul! It’s not just food; it’s an experience wrapped up in nostalgia and love.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the beef on high heat before adding vegetables and broth. This enhances flavor and creates a beautiful rich color.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in your favorite root vegetables or add a splash of red wine for depth. Personalize it to match your taste!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on low in the slow cooker or microwave until warmed through.

Sharing this recipe brings back memories of my grandmother’s kitchen, where every Sunday was stew day. The smell wafting through the house made it feel like home.

FAQ

Can I use frozen beef for slow cooker beef stew?

Yes, but thaw it first for better cooking results.

How long should I cook beef stew in the slow cooker?

Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours for tender beef.

What can I serve with slow cooker beef stew?

Serve with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a filling meal.

Print

Savory Slow Cooker Beef Stew

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• Author: Ethan Brooks
• Total Time: 21 minute
• Yield: Serves 8

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Description

Warm your soul with this hearty slow cooker beef stew, featuring tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth. Perfect for chilly evenings or cozy family gatherings, this dish is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Let the slow cooker do the work as you enjoy the comforting aroma wafting through your home.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lbs chuck roast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 4 medium carrots, sliced
• 4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, cubed
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 2 tsp fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Prep your ingredients: Dice the chuck roast and chop the vegetables.
2. Optional: Sear the beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned on all sides for extra flavor.
3. Transfer the beef (seared or raw) to a slow cooker. Add onions, carrots, potatoes, garlic, thyme, and bay leaves.
4. Pour in the beef broth to cover the ingredients and add Worcestershire sauce along with salt and pepper.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the beef is fork-tender.
6. Remove bay leaves before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6–8 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooker
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 610mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 21g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: For a richer flavor, try adding a splash of red wine. Feel free to substitute root vegetables based on your preference. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently.