easy crockpot beef stew recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best easy crockpot beef stew recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite easy crockpot beef stew recipe. As a busy mom of three, I’m always on the lookout for delicious and convenient meals that can be prepared in advance.

This recipe is a staple in our household and never fails to impress. It’s a classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.

The slow cooker does all the work, so you can just set it and forget it. My kids love helping me with this recipe, from browning the meat to stirring in the vegetables.

It’s a great way to get them involved in the kitchen and teach them about cooking techniques. The best part?

This stew is incredibly easy to make and requires minimal effort from me. Just throw all the ingredients into the crockpot and let it do its magic.

The result is a hearty, flavorful stew that’s packed with nutrients and will leave everyone feeling satisfied and content. I love serving this with some crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a cozy dinner night in.

Easy Crockpot Beef Stew

4.8 from 1867 votes

This hearty beef stew is made simple by letting your slow cooker do all the work. Tender chunks of beef simmer with vegetables in a rich, savory broth for a comforting meal.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time8 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time8 hours 20 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Stew

2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon dried thyme
4 carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
3 celery stalks, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 cup frozen peas

For Thickening (Optional)

2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons cold water

👨‍🍳Directions

1Place the beef cubes in a large bowl and sprinkle with flour, salt, and pepper.
2Toss until all pieces are evenly coated.
3Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
4Working in batches to avoid crowding, add the beef and cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side until deeply browned.
5Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker.
6Pour beef broth into the skillet and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon.
7Stir in Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, and dried thyme.
8Bring the mixture to a simmer, then pour it over the beef in the slow cooker.
9Add the carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and potatoes to the slow cooker.
10Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
11Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low heat for 7 to 8 hours or on high heat for 4 to 5 hours, until the beef is fork-tender and the vegetables are soft.
12About 30 minutes before serving, if you prefer a thicker stew, mix cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl until smooth.
13Stir the cornstarch slurry into the stew and continue cooking uncovered for 20 to 30 minutes, until the broth has thickened slightly.
14Stir in the frozen peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking and let them warm through.
15Remove the bay leaves from the stew before serving.
16Ladle the stew into bowls and serve hot, with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes if desired.
17The stew should be rich and savory with tender beef and vegetables.

🔧Equipment

Slow cooker (6-quart or larger)
Large skillet
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon
Small bowl

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 80mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 30g🥦Dietary Fiber: 5g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

For extra flavor, you can add a cup of red wine along with the broth. To save time, you can skip browning the beef, but browning adds deeper flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

This easy crockpot beef stew recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends and family.

It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal effort from me, which is perfect for busy days when I need something that’ll get everyone fed without too much fuss.

Plus, it makes great leftovers that can be reheated for lunch or dinner later in the week.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot Beef Stew

Q: What type of beef should I use for this recipe?

A: You can use either chuck or round cuts of beef for this recipe, but I prefer using chuck because it’s more tender and has better flavor.

Q: Can I make this recipe in a large pot on the stovetop?

A: Yes, you can make this recipe on the stovetop, but keep in mind that it will require more constant attention and stirring to prevent burning.

Q: How long does this stew take to cook?

A: This stew takes about 8 hours to cook on low in the crockpot, but you can also cook it on high for 3-4 hours if you’re short on time.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

A: Yes, feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, or sweet potatoes to make this stew even heartier.

Q: How do I store leftover stew?

A: You can store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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