This easy crock pot beef stew is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something warm and hearty without much fuss. Just toss in beef, potatoes, carrots, and broth, then let the slow cooker do its magic!
I love that I can prep everything in the morning and come home to a delicious meal ready to go. Plus, my house smells amazing while it cooks – it’s like a cozy hug after a long day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: The best cuts for stewing include chuck or round. They become tender after slow cooking. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use sirloin, but it may need less cook time.
Carrots and Potatoes: I love using classic carrots and russet potatoes for their heartiness. You could swap potatoes for sweet potatoes or add parsnips for a twist. Frozen vegetables can be a time-saver, too!
Onion and Garlic: These are essential for flavor. You can use shallots or green onions as substitutes. Garlic powder works in a pinch if you don’t have fresh garlic on hand.
Beef Broth: Homemade is great, but store-bought works just fine. Low-sodium broth is a good choice for controlling the salt level. Vegetable broth could be used for a different flavor profile.
Herbs: Dried thyme and rosemary add lovely flavor, but if you have fresh herbs, feel free to use them—just double the amount as dried herbs are usually more potent.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Consistency for My Beef Stew?
The key to a great stew is in how you thicken it, and there are a couple of methods you can use. If you skip the flour yet still want a thicker stew, consider these options:
- After cooking, mash a few chunks of potato against the side of the crock pot. This naturally thickens the stew.
- Add instant potato flakes during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- If using flour, make sure to mix it well with cold water beforehand to avoid lumps when stirred in.
- Letting the stew sit for a bit after cooking can also help it thicken as it cools.
Remember to adjust the seasoning as needed after thickening. A little taste test can go a long way!
Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe for Busy Weeknights
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and will cook for 7-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. So, you can set it up in the morning and come home to a delicious meal, or you can have a quicker dinner on a busy evening with the high setting!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. This step gives the beef a richer flavor but feel free to skip it if you’re short on time!
2. Load the Crock Pot:
Transfer the browned beef into the crock pot. Next, add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
3. Mix the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, mix together the beef broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Pour this mixture over the beef and veggies in the crock pot.
4. Cooking Time:
Add the bay leaves to the pot. Cover it up and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is nice and tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
5. Thicken the Stew (if desired):
If you like a thicker stew, about 30 minutes before serving, mix the flour with a small amount of cold water to make a slurry. Stir the slurry into the stew, cover, and let it finish cooking until thickened.
6. Final Touches:
Before serving, remember to remove the bay leaves. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if needed — a pinch more salt or pepper can make a big difference.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your hearty beef stew hot, and if you like, pair it with some crusty bread or spoon it over cooked rice for a complete meal.
Enjoy your cozy, comforting beef stew with minimal effort — it’s perfect for busy evenings!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen beef stew meat, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. It’s best to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Avoid adding frozen meat directly to the crock pot, as it may not cook evenly.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorites like peas, green beans, or corn. Just keep in mind that some vegetables might cook faster, so you may want to add them halfway through the cooking time for the best texture.
How Do I Store Leftover Beef Stew?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze the stew in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare all the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge. In the morning, just place everything in the crock pot and set it to cook. This allows you to enjoy a warm stew when you come home after a busy day!
