Delicious Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about a hearty beef stew simmering in a slow cooker. This slow cooker beef stew recipe is an ideal solution for busy days when you want a nourishing meal waiting for you at home. Just toss in your ingredients in the morning, and come back to a warm and flavorful feast.

Imagine coming home to the enticing aroma of tender beef, carrots, and potatoes mingling together after a long day. This dish is perfect for gatherings or simply a cozy night in. The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a staple in every home chef’s repertoire.

Comfort in a Bowl

There’s a unique charm to slow cooker meals, especially a hearty beef stew that fills the air with mouthwatering aromas. As the ingredients meld together, they create a warm embrace that invites you to gather around the table.

Imagining the scene of a cozy kitchen with a slow cooker bubbling away is enough to make anyone feel at home. The rich scents of tender beef, vibrant carrots, and hearty potatoes waft throughout, promising a fulfilling meal after a long day.

Ingredients That Shine

The essence of a satisfying beef stew lies in its ingredients. Tender chunks of beef chuck provide depth and richness, while colorful carrots and potatoes lend a touch of brightness and heartiness.

Each component plays a vital role in creating a well-rounded dish. The addition of garlic and onions offers aromatic notes, and the careful seasoning with thyme and bay leaves enriches the overall flavor profile.

Preparation Made Easy

One of the greatest advantages of this recipe is its simplicity. Begin by browning the beef to develop a deeper flavor and color before transferring it to the slow cooker. This initial step enhances the stew’s taste, setting the foundation for the final dish.

Once everything is combined in the slow cooker, it’s simply a matter of waiting. Cover it up, set your timer, and let the magic happen as the ingredients cook down into a hearty stew.

Cooking Times to Suit Your Schedule

Whether you have all day or just a few hours, this recipe accommodates your needs. Cooking on low allows the flavors to deepen over eight hours, while a high setting completes the dish in about four hours.

This flexibility makes it an ideal choice for busy days. You can return home to a delicious meal that feels like a warm hug, ready to be savored with family or friends.

A Garnish That Adds a Touch

While the stew itself is a star, a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a bright pop of color, enhancing its visual appeal. This simple garnish elevates the dish, making it feel like a special occasion.

Accompanying the stew with crusty bread creates the perfect pairing, allowing you to savor every last bite. The bread is perfect for dipping into the thick, savory broth, ensuring no flavor goes to waste.

Making It Your Own

Customization is key when it comes to recipes. Feel free to experiment with additional vegetables or spices that you love. Adding peas during the last moments of cooking can introduce a delightful burst of sweetness and color.

Ultimately, this comforting slow cooker beef stew recipe invites creativity, allowing you to put your own spin on a classic dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 4 cups beef broth
• 4 medium carrots, sliced
• 4 medium potatoes, diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)

Instructions

1. Brown the Beef: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add beef cubes and brown on all sides. This step adds depth of flavor to the stew.
2. Combine Ingredients: Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker. Add carrots, potatoes, onion, garlic, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, pepper, and bay leaf.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
4. Add Peas: If using, stir in frozen peas during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
5. Serve: Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the stew into bowls and enjoy with crusty bread for dipping.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 hours (low) or 4 hours (high)
• Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes (low) or 4 hours 20 minutes (high)

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories: 350kcal
• Fat: 15g
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 25g