Slow Cooker Beef Stew for Ultimate Comfort

Serves: 1 Prep Time: 1Hour Cooking Time: 3 Hour 3 Hour

Nutrition facts: 1260 calories 100 g fat

Rating: 5.0/5

( 1 voted )

Ingredients

eef Chuck Roast: 1.5 lbs, cut into bite-sized cubes
Potatoes: 4 medium-sized, peeled and chopped
Carrots: 3 large, peeled and sliced
Onion: 1 large, diced
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
Beef Broth: 4 cups
Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons
Worcestershire Sauce: 2 tablespoons
Bay Leaves: 2
Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon
Salt: 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (for searing the beef)
Cornstarch (Optional): 2 tablespoons, mixed with 2 tablespoons of water (for thickening)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Wash and peel the potatoes and carrots, then chop them into bite-sized pieces. Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Cut the beef chuck roast into cubes, pat them dry with paper towels, and season with salt and black pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches and sear until browned on all sides. Transfer the seared beef to the slow cooker.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Add the tomato paste and stir for another minute. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add the potatoes, carrots, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, and thyme to the slow cooker. Stir everything to combine.

Step 5: Slow Cook

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.

Step 6: Thicken the Stew (Optional)

If you prefer a thicker stew, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Add the slurry to the slow cooker in the last 30 minutes of cooking and stir well.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the bay leaves before serving. Serve the beef stew hot with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.

This method ensures a rich, flavorful stew with tender beef and perfectly cooked vegetables!

Notes

Beef Cut: You can use beef chuck roast for the best results, but other cuts like brisket or round can also work well. Thickening the Stew: If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash some of the potatoes in the slow cooker to naturally thicken the broth. Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like parsnips, celery, or peas to the stew for additional flavor and texture. Slow Cooker Size: Make sure your slow cooker is large enough to fit all the ingredients comfortably. This recipe works well in a 6-quart slow cooker. Storage: Leftover stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

Slow cooker beef stew is a timeless dish that delivers comfort and flavor in every bite. Perfect for busy schedules, it combines tender beef, hearty potatoes, and aromatic spices. Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, this stew is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with minimal effort required.

Slow cooker beef stew is an effortless way to create a rich, flavorful meal. With tender beef, perfectly cooked vegetables, and a savory broth, it’s the ultimate comfort food. Just prep, set, and enjoy a delicious dinner that warms the heart and satisfies the soul.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Trim excess fat from the beef and cut it into bite-sized cubes. Peel and chop the carrots, potatoes, and onion into uniform pieces. Mince the garlic cloves.

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Step 2: Sear the Beef

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add a splash of oil, and sear the beef cubes until browned on all sides. This step locks in the flavor.

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Step 3: Layer the Ingredients

Add the chopped vegetables, garlic, and seared beef to the slow cooker.

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Step 4: Add the Seasonings

Sprinkle salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaves over the ingredients. Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste, ensuring everything is well mixed.

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Step 5: Cook the Stew

Set your slow cooker to low and let it cook for 6-8 hours. For faster results, cook on high for 4-5 hours.

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Step 6: Thicken the Broth (Optional)

If you prefer a thicker stew, mix cornstarch with water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

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Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, you can include celery, parsnips, or peas for added variety.

How do I store leftovers?

Store the stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes, chicken thighs or drumsticks can be used for a lighter variation.

Conclusion

This slow cooker beef stew is a must-try recipe that’s as versatile as it is delicious. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a surefire way to impress family and friends. Try it today and enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience!

Slow Cooker Beef Stew for Ultimate Comfort