Slow Cooker Beef Stew

This Slow Cooker Beef Stew is the perfect dish for chilly days, combining tender chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich broth. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this classic stew will warm your heart and fill your belly. Its unique blend of flavors from red wine and fresh herbs makes it an exceptional choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With minimal chopping and a simple cooking process, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of beef, vegetables, and aromatic herbs creates a rich and satisfying meal that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it on its own or with crusty bread for dipping; it’s great for any meal.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This stew tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or adjust seasonings to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Slow Cooker Beef Stew, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this delicious meal to life.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Silicone spatula
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Ensures even cooking over several hours, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Large skillet: Perfect for browning meat, which adds depth of flavor to the stew.
• Silicone spatula: Great for scraping up browned bits without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

This traditional Beef Stew is loaded with tender bites of juicy beef, golden potatoes, carrots, peas, red wine, onions, garlic, and a hearty beef broth. It’s the BEST Slow Cooker recipe for Fall and Winter.

Ingredients:
– 2 ½ pounds stew meat (see notes)
– ½ teaspoon EACH: black pepper, garlic salt, celery salt
– 1/4 cup flour
– 3-6 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 tablespoons cold butter (divided)
– 2 cups yellow onions (diced)
– 4 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1 cup cabernet sauvignon (or merlot. See notes.)
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 beef bouillon cubes
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce
– 3 tablespoons tomato paste
– 5 medium carrots (cut into 1-inch chunks)
– 1 lb. baby Yukon gold potatoes (halved or quartered)
– 2 bay leaves
– 1 sprig rosemary
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1/4 cup Cold Water + 3 tablespoons Corn Starch (Optional)
– 2-3 drops Gravy Master (Optional– Adds a richer, darker color.)

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Step 1: Prepare the Meat

1. Cut meat into 1-inch cubes, discarding any large pieces of fat. Fat marbleized into the meat is fine!
2. Sprinkle beef with black pepper, garlic salt, and celery salt. Toss to coat.
3. Sprinkle flour over the meat and toss again.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

1. Heat 3 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the meat in batches—don’t overcrowd the pan—and brown on each side for about 45 seconds.
3. Add more oil if needed during browning. Transfer browned meat to slow cooker.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

1. Reduce heat to medium and melt 1 tablespoon of cold butter in the same skillet.
2. Add diced onions and cook for about five minutes until softened.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add a splash of wine to loosen browned bits from the skillet; this enhances flavor.
5. Transfer onion-garlic mixture along with remaining wine to slow cooker.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients and Cook

1. Add all remaining ingredients except for peas, cornstarch mixture, and two tablespoons of cold butter into slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for about seven-and-a-half to eight hours or high for three-and-a-half to four hours until vegetables are softened.

Step 5: Finish Cooking

1. During the last fifteen minutes of cooking, add frozen peas.
2. Remove bay leaves and rosemary stem before serving.

Optional Step: Thicken Your Stew

1. To thicken stew if desired, combine cold water with cornstarch in a separate bowl.
2. Slowly add mixture to stew while stirring; it will continue thickening as it stands.

Final Touch

1. Turn off heat and swirl in two tablespoons of cold butter for a smooth finish—a technique known as “Monter au Beurre.”
2. Optionally add drops of Gravy Master for darker color before serving.

With these steps completed, you can now enjoy a hearty bowl of Slow Cooker Beef Stew!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Serving Slow Cooker Beef Stew is a delightful experience that can elevate your meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy family night, these serving suggestions will enhance the dish’s flavors and presentation.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Serve warm, crusty bread alongside the stew for dipping. The bread absorbs the rich broth, making every bite satisfying.

Add Fresh Herbs

• A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme on top adds a pop of color and freshness. This simple touch brightens the dish and enhances its aroma.

Offer a Side Salad

• A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the hearty stew. The crispness of the greens balances the richness of the beef.

Drizzle with Hot Sauce

• For those who love a kick, offer hot sauce on the side. A few drops can elevate the flavors and cater to spice lovers.

Serve in Individual Bowls

• Presenting beef stew in individual bowls makes for an elegant serving option. It creates a personal touch for each guest.

Include Cheese Toppings

• Adding grated cheese, such as Parmesan or cheddar, just before serving can introduce a creamy texture and additional flavor to each bowl.

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How to Perfect Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Perfecting your Slow Cooker Beef Stew takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve the best results every time:

• Choose Quality Meat: Use well-marbled stew meat for tenderness and flavor. The fat renders during cooking, enhancing the overall taste.

• Sear the Meat: Browning the meat before adding it to the slow cooker adds depth of flavor. Don’t skip this step; it’s essential for a rich stew.

• Layer Ingredients: Place denser vegetables like potatoes and carrots at the bottom of the slow cooker. This ensures they cook evenly without becoming mushy.

• Use Low Heat: Cooking on low allows flavors to meld beautifully over time. Aim for 7½ to 8 hours for optimal results.

• Add Peas Last: To keep peas vibrant and tender, stir them in during the last 15 minutes of cooking. This preserves their color and texture.

• Finish with Butter: Swirling in cold butter at the end gives your stew a smooth, silky finish that enhances its richness.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Pairing your Slow Cooker Beef Stew with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes provide comfort and pair perfectly with beef stew gravy.

2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy veggies add a slight bitterness that contrasts nicely with the savory stew flavors.

3. Buttered Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings brightness to your plate; serve it hot with melted butter for extra indulgence.

4. Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans add color and crunch, balancing out the hearty stew.

5. Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice is an excellent substitute that soaks up all the delicious juices from the stew.

6. Cornbread Muffins: Soft cornbread muffins provide sweetness and texture; they’re perfect for mopping up leftover broth from your bowl.

7. Side of Pickles: Tangy pickles add an unexpected crunch that cuts through the richness of beef stew, making them an intriguing addition.

8. Baked Potatoes: Fully loaded baked potatoes topped with sour cream or cheese make for an excellent companion dish alongside your hearty stew.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Beef Stew, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using the wrong cut of meat: Choosing tough cuts like chuck or round is essential for tender beef. Avoid lean cuts that can dry out.
• Skipping browning the meat: Browning adds depth of flavor. Always sear the beef before adding it to your slow cooker.
• Overcrowding the slow cooker: Packing too much in can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure there’s enough space for heat circulation.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Taste your stew as it cooks. You may need to tweak seasonings for a balanced flavor.
• Not allowing for resting time: Letting your stew sit after cooking allows flavors to meld. Serve it after resting for a richer taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for the best quality.

Freezing Slow Cooker Beef Stew

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal taste and texture.

Reheating Slow Cooker Beef Stew

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best meat for Slow Cooker Beef Stew?

The best meat choices are chuck roast or round, as they become tender during long cooking times.

Can I add other vegetables to my Slow Cooker Beef Stew?

Absolutely! Feel free to include veggies like mushrooms, parsnips, or green beans based on your preferences.

How do I make my Slow Cooker Beef Stew thicker?

You can thicken your stew by adding a cornstarch slurry or letting it cook uncovered towards the end.

Is it necessary to brown the meat first in Slow Cooker Beef Stew?

While not mandatory, browning enhances flavor and caramelization, making your stew even more delicious.

Can I prepare Slow Cooker Beef Stew ahead of time?

Yes! You can chop ingredients and store them in the fridge. Just combine everything in the slow cooker when you’re ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Beef Stew is an incredible comfort dish perfect for chilly days. Its rich flavors and tender beef create a satisfying meal that everyone can enjoy. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices! Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!