ground beef slow cooker recipe
The Best ground beef slow cooker recipe
My kids especially love it because it’s so easy to customize. We’ll add whatever veggies we have on hand—bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, or even some frozen mixed veggies—and it just blends right in. No chopping, no fuss, just dump it in, cook it, and serve it. And let’s be honest, slow cookers are lifesavers when I’m running late or just don’t feel like standing over a stove. My husband and kids swear by it too—it’s that kind of meal that doesn’t feel like work, but it still feels like a real meal. Plus, the health benefits are nice too. Lean ground beef mixed with fiber from the veggies and spices keeps it balanced, and it’s so much better than takeout or frozen dinners. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel good about what you’re feeding your family without having to stress over it.
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Slow Cooker Beef Stew
A hearty and comforting dish featuring tender ground beef slow-cooked with vegetables and flavorful broth. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (85% lean)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (14.5 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup beef bouillon
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and black pepper to taste
👨🍳Directions
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1
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it into small pieces. Drain excess fat if needed. Add olive oil if using, then sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery for 5 minutes until softened. -
2
Transfer the cooked vegetables and beef to the slow cooker. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, bouillon, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, Worcestershire sauce (if using), salt, and pepper. -
3
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until beef is tender and vegetables are cooked through. -
4
Remove the bay leaf before serving. Stir in the frozen peas just before serving to keep them crisp.
🔧Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Large skillet
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Tips
- For extra flavor, add a splash of red wine while sautéing the vegetables.
- Use beef stew meat instead of ground beef for a thicker stew.
- Adjust seasoning to taste; add more herbs or spices if desired.
Variations
- Add diced potatoes or sweet potatoes for a heartier stew.
- Include mushrooms for added depth of flavor.
Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Beef Stew Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Beef Stew
1. What type of ground beef should I use for this slow cooker recipe?
For the best results, use 80/20 ground beef (or 90/10 lean ground beef if you prefer less fat). The 80/20 ratio ensures tender, flavorful meat with enough fat to keep it juicy. Avoid pre-ground beef with additives like nitrates, as they can alter the taste and texture.
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2. How long should I cook the ground beef in the slow cooker, and at what temperature?
Cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, depending on the size of your slow cooker. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat. Stir occasionally for even cooking, especially if using a high setting.
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3. What seasonings or sauces work best with this slow cooker ground beef recipe?
Classic pairings include:
– Taco seasoning (adjust to taste)
– Italian seasoning (garlic, oregano, basil)
– BBQ sauce (for a smoky twist)
– Onion & garlic powder (for a simple, savory base)
– Cumin & chili powder (for a Mexican-inspired flavor)
For extra richness, add a splash of beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, or a little tomato paste before cooking.
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4. Can I add vegetables or other ingredients while cooking, and if so, what’s the best way to do it?
Yes! Add diced potatoes, carrots, bell peppers, or onions in the last 1–1.5 hours of cooking to prevent them from turning mushy. For a heartier dish, include whole tomatoes, corn kernels, or even cooked rice (add 30–60 minutes before serving). Avoid adding too many liquid ingredients early on, as they can dilute the flavor.
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5. How do I prevent the ground beef from drying out or sticking to the slow cooker?
To keep the beef moist and prevent sticking:
– Use a splash of beef broth or water (about ½ cup) at the start to create a steamy environment.
– Stir occasionally (especially on high heat) to redistribute juices.
– Line the slow cooker with parchment paper (lightly greased) or use a nonstick spray to reduce sticking.
– Cook on LOW if possible—high heat can dry out the meat faster.
– Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to redistribute juices.
