This beef stew is super easy to make in a crock pot. It combines tender beef, hearty veggies, and a warm broth that fills your home with a delightful smell!
There’s something special about a cozy dinner that practically cooks itself. I love coming home to this warm bowl of goodness after a long day—it just feels like a big hug! 🤗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck: This cut is perfect for stew as it becomes tender during cooking. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try sirloin, but it might not be as juicy. For a vegetarian version, use hearty mushrooms or chickpeas.
Red Wine: I love adding red wine for depth, but if you prefer not to use alcohol, extra beef broth works great. You could also use grape juice or apple cider for a hint of sweetness.
Vegetables: Carrots and potatoes create a comforting texture. Feel free to add celery or parsnips. If you’re low on fresh veggies, frozen ones can save the day, too!
How Do I Get Perfectly Tender Beef in My Stew?
Browning the beef before adding it to the crock pot is key. This step develops rich flavors that enhance the stew. Here’s how to do it well:
- Use a large skillet on medium-high heat and make sure the oil is hot.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Brown the beef in batches to ensure each piece gets nicely seared.
- After browning, deglaze the skillet with a bit of broth to capture all those tasty bits, and pour this into the crock pot.
Following this method will give your stew a rich, hearty flavor you’ll love. Happy cooking!
Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 2 lbs beef chuck stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional; can substitute with extra beef broth)
- 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 cup frozen peas (added near the end)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cozy beef stew takes about 20 minutes of prep time and cooks for 7-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crock pot. So, grab your ingredients in the morning, set it to cook, and come home to a delicious warm meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
Start by taking a large bowl and tossing the beef cubes with flour, salt, and pepper until they’re all nicely coated. This helps create a great texture for your stew.
2. Brown the Beef:
Next, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes in batches, cooking them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re nicely browned. This step adds a lot of flavor! Once browned, transfer the beef to the crock pot.
3. Deglaze the Skillet:
Pour a small amount of beef broth into the skillet to deglaze it. Scrape up all those tasty browned bits stuck to the bottom and pour this liquid into the crock pot with the beef.
4. Add the Vegetables and Seasonings:
Now, add the remaining beef broth, red wine (if you’re using it), carrots, potatoes, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves into the crock pot. Give it a gentle stir to combine everything.
5. Cook the Stew:
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The stew is ready when the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
6. Finishing Touches:
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the frozen peas. They add a nice pop of color and sweetness to the stew. Don’t forget to remove the bay leaves!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, taste your stew and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a beautiful finish. Dig in and enjoy your cozy dinner!
FAQ for Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Recipe?
It’s best to use thawed beef for even cooking and better browning. If you only have frozen beef, thaw it in the fridge overnight or use the microwave on the defrost setting before preparing the stew.
What Can I Substitute for Red Wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, you can simply add more beef broth. Other great options include grape juice or apple cider for a touch of sweetness without the alcohol.
Can I Make This Stew Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute beef with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, seitan, or lentils. Replace beef broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it seems too thick.
