Crockpot Beef Stew

Name: Crockpot Beef Stew
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces; 4 cups beef broth; 4 medium potatoes, diced; 3 carrots, sliced; 2 stalks celery, chopped; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This hearty Crockpot Beef Stew is the perfect comfort food for chilly evenings. Packed with tender beef, fresh vegetables, and rich flavors, it's easy to prepare and cooks slowly to perfection.

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2025-12-19T14:01:02.801Z

This Crockpot Beef Stew recipe has been passed down through generations, bringing warmth and joy to family gatherings. The slow-cooking method enhances the flavors, making every bite a delightful experience.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Tender and juicy beef that falls apart with a fork
A medley of vegetables for a nutritious boost
Conveniently cooks while you go about your day

      

The Benefits of Slow Cooking

Slow cooking is not just a convenient way to prepare meals; it also enhances the flavors of your ingredients. As the beef simmers in the crockpot for hours, it absorbs the rich taste of the broth and spices, resulting in a dish that is both comforting and deeply satisfying. The low and slow cooking method allows collagen in the beef to break down, making it incredibly tender and flavorful.

In addition to flavor, slow cooking is a time-saver. You can prepare all your ingredients in the morning, set your crockpot, and go about your day. By the time you return home, a delicious meal is waiting for you, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. This hands-off approach allows you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal with loved ones.

Choosing the Right Cuts of Beef

When it comes to making beef stew, the cut of meat you choose can make a significant difference in the final dish. Beef chuck is an excellent choice due to its rich marbling and higher fat content, which contributes to the stew's overall flavor and texture. This cut becomes tender and juicy during the slow cooking process, making it perfect for stews and braises.

Other suitable cuts include brisket or round, but they may require slight adjustments in cooking time or method. Always look for meat that has a deep red color and a good amount of marbling. Avoid lean cuts, as they can turn dry and tough when cooked for extended periods. Selecting the right cut ensures that your stew will be hearty and delicious.

Serving Suggestions

Crockpot beef stew is versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with crusty bread for dipping, a side salad for freshness, or over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes. These options not only complement the flavors of the stew but also add a satisfying element to the meal.

For those looking to add a touch of brightness, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, can elevate the dish even further. Additionally, consider a dash of hot sauce or a squeeze of lemon juice on individual servings to enhance the flavor profile. With these serving suggestions, you can create a well-rounded meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces
4 cups beef broth
4 medium potatoes, diced
3 carrots, sliced
2 stalks celery, chopped
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to chop the vegetables evenly for consistent cooking.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by trimming the excess fat from the beef chuck and cutting it into 1-inch pieces. Chop the potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, and mince the garlic.

Combine in the Crockpot

In the crockpot, add the beef, chopped vegetables, garlic, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Pour in the beef broth to cover the ingredients.

Cook the Stew

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the beef is tender and the flavors are well combined.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Let the stew cool before storing it in an airtight container for leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

Storing leftovers is easy with this beef stew. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days, making it a great option for meal prepping or enjoying later on in the week. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

For longer storage, consider freezing the stew. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat. This makes a hearty meal available at a moment’s notice, perfect for those busy nights when cooking from scratch isn't an option.

Variations and Customizations

One of the best aspects of beef stew is its adaptability. Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. Adding peas, green beans, or bell peppers can introduce new flavors and textures. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own signature stew.

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine or beer to the broth. This can deepen the taste profile and add complexity to your dish. If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it in during the last hour of cooking to achieve that desired consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use brisket or round roast, but chuck is recommended for its tenderness after slow cooking.

→ How can I make this stew gluten-free?

Ensure the beef broth is gluten-free and avoid using any thickeners that contain gluten.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this stew freezes well. Just allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

Serve with crusty bread, biscuits, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.