Why Make This Recipe

Crock Pot Beef Stew is a comfort food classic that is perfect for cooler days. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making each bite delicious. It’s also convenient, as you can set it and forget it while it cooks, filling your home with a wonderful aroma. This hearty stew is packed with tender beef and vegetables, making it a great choice for family dinners or meal prep.

How to Make Crock Pot Beef Stew

Ingredients:

2 pounds beef chuck (cut into 1-inch cubes)
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme
3 garlic cloves (minced)
4 medium carrots (sliced)
3 large potatoes (peeled and diced)
2 celery stalks (sliced)
1 onion (chopped)
1 cup frozen peas (added at the end)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Directions:

In a large bowl, toss the beef cubes with flour, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear beef until browned. Transfer the beef to the crock pot.
Add beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, garlic, carrots, potatoes, celery, and onion to the crock pot. Stir to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 8–9 hours or on high for 4–5 hours until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in frozen peas. Adjust seasoning and garnish with parsley before serving.

How to Serve Crock Pot Beef Stew

Serve your Crock Pot Beef Stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs well with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a fulfilling meal. Don’t forget to ladle it into bowls and enjoy the comforting flavors!

How to Store Crock Pot Beef Stew

Allow the stew to cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will last for 3–4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove or in the microwave.

Tips to Make Crock Pot Beef Stew

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of red wine to the stew along with the beef broth.
Feel free to mix up the vegetables. You can use bell peppers, parsnips, or mushrooms based on your preferences.
If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it in about 30 minutes before serving.

Variation

You can make a hearty vegetable version by omitting the beef and using vegetable broth instead. Add different kinds of beans for protein and increase the number of vegetables like zucchini or squash.

FAQs

Can I use frozen beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen beef, but it may require a longer cooking time. Make sure it’s cooked thoroughly before serving.

Can I make this stew in advance?
Absolutely! Crock Pot Beef Stew tastes even better the next day. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat.

Can I cook it on high if I’m short on time?
Yes, you can cook it on high for 4–5 hours. However, cooking on low for 8–9 hours will yield more tender beef and richer flavors.