Comforting Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe
There’s nothing quite like a hearty beef stew to warm you up on a chilly day. This slow cooker beef stew is packed with tender meat, flavorful vegetables, and rich broth, making it the perfect comfort food. Let your slow cooker do the work, and come home to a delicious, ready-to-eat meal.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Beef Stew
This recipe is perfect for busy individuals and families who crave a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Using a slow cooker means you can set it up in the morning and return to a perfectly cooked dinner. The long cooking time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a rich and satisfying stew.
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Comforting Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch pieces
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 ½ cups beef broth
- 4 medium carrots, sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 stalk celery, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground paprika
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 large bay leaf
Instructions
Prepare the Beef:
In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and pepper. Add the beef stew meat and toss to coat each piece evenly.
Assemble the Stew:
Place the coated beef into the slow cooker. Add the beef broth, carrots, potatoes, onion, celery, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, minced garlic, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
Serve:
Remove the bay leaf before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot with a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal.
Notes
Browning the Meat: For an extra layer of flavor, brown the beef in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker. This step is optional but highly recommended.
Thickening the Stew: If you prefer a thicker stew, you can add a slurry of cornstarch and water towards the end of the cooking time. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir into the stew. Cook on high for an additional 30 minutes.
Vegetable Swaps: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables such as parsnips, peas, or mushrooms.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
Herb Variations: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley can add a fresh flavor to the stew.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: slow cooker beef stew, beef stew recipe, easy slow cooker meals, comforting beef stew, slow cooker recipes, hearty beef stew, winter recipes, beef stew with vegetables, gluten-free beef stew, American cuisine
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker
- Large bowl
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Skillet (optional, for browning meat)
Storing Leftovers
Leftover beef stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. For longer storage, freeze the stew in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Food and Drink Pairings
This slow cooker beef stew pairs wonderfully with:
- Bread: Crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the delicious broth.
- Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a fresh contrast to the rich stew.
- Wine: A robust red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot complements the hearty flavors.
FAQ
Can I make this stew ahead of time?
Absolutely! This stew can be prepared the day before and reheated. The flavors often improve after sitting overnight.
Can I use other cuts of beef?
Yes, you can use chuck roast, round roast, or any other cut suitable for slow cooking.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Can I cook this on the stovetop or in the oven?
Yes, you can simmer the stew on the stovetop over low heat for 2-3 hours or cook it in a Dutch oven in the oven at 325°F for about the same amount of time.
Conclusion
This slow cooker beef stew is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for those chilly days when you need a warm and satisfying meal. The convenience of the slow cooker means you can enjoy a delicious, homemade dinner with minimal effort.
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