There is nothing better than a slow-simmered beef stew, especially on days when you want something cozy without doing much work. This version cooks low and slow in the crock pot so the beef turns tender, the vegetables soften perfectly, and the broth becomes rich and hearty. If you enjoy warm, comforting meals like this, make sure you put our beef and barley soup in your rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Beef Stew
This stew delivers the kind of slow-cooked flavor people expect from a classic beef stew. You start by browning the beef, which builds a deeper base and gives the broth more body. The potatoes hold their shape, the carrots add natural sweetness, and a small amount of tomato paste rounds everything out without taking over. The long cook time does the rest, making the beef fall-apart tender.
It also leans toward practical weeknight cooking. The prep is quick, everything goes into one crock pot, and it reheats well for lunches or leftovers.
Tips for the Best Texture
- Get a good sear on the beef before adding it to the slow cooker. Browning adds real flavor and keeps the stew from tasting flat.
- Always cube the potatoes roughly the same size so they cook evenly.
- If the stew looks slightly thin at the end, you can mash some of the potatoes right in the pot to
Serving Ideas
Serve with cheesy garlic dinner rolls, or crusty bread like our easy rustic bread or homemade ciabatta bread. A simple green side salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the stew.
Ingredient Swaps and Variations
- Use beef stock instead of broth for an even deeper flavor.
- Skip the red wine and replace it with an equal amount of broth to keep the liquid level correct.
- Add mushrooms for extra earthiness or turnips if you want the stew less starchy.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally so the vegetables heat evenly. This stew freezes well for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm on the stovetop with a splash of broth if you prefer it a little looser.
Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds chuck beef, cut into 1" cubes
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 ribs celery, chopped
- 3 large carrots, sliced into rounds
- ½ cup frozen peas
- 6 Yukon gold potatoes, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2½ cups beef broth
- ½ cup red wine
Instructions
- Add the cubed beef to a large bowl and toss with the flour until evenly coated.
- In a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil and heat until shimmering.
- Carefully add the floured beef to the hot skillet and brown on all sides, about 4 to 6 minutes. Work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
- Transfer the browned beef to the insert of a slow cooker.
- To the slow cooker, add the chopped celery, sliced carrots, frozen peas, cubed potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
- Add the bay leaves, dried thyme, chopped parsley, tomato paste, kosher salt, and black pepper.
- Pour in the beef broth and red wine. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 3 to 3 ½ hours, until the potatoes and beef are tender.
- Before serving, remove and discard the bay leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
This recipe was inspired by the Crock Pot Beef Stew on iamhomesteader.com.
More Hearty Soups
Lasagna Soup
Warm up with one-pot Lasagna Soup! A comforting blend of Italian flavors in a simple, hearty dish. Perfect for chilly days!
Cheesy Bean and Ham Soup
Creamy Cheesy Ham and Bean Soup is the perfect comfort food! Savory ham, tender beans, and melted cheese make every bite delicious.
Potato Soup
Cozy up with creamy Potato Soup made with Yukon Gold potatoes, crispy bacon, and sour cream—perfect for chilly days and light meals!