Irresistible Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe for Cozy Nights

The aroma of a slow cooker beef stew wafts through the air, wrapping you in a warm, savory embrace. Picture tender chunks of beef nestled among vibrant carrots and potatoes, simmering away as the flavors meld into a comforting, hearty dish that feels like a hug on a chilly day.

Now, imagine hosting a cozy dinner with family or friends, where everyone gathers around the table, spoon in hand, eagerly awaiting their bowl of this delightful stew. The anticipation builds as you share stories and laughter over the rich, flavorful goodness that is slow cooker beef stew.

My kids still talk about the first time we made this stew. They couldn’t get enough of it and even asked for seconds—no small feat when dealing with picky eaters!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Beef Chuck Roast: Look for well-marbled cuts for optimal tenderness after cooking.

• Carrots: Fresh and vibrant carrots add sweetness. Cut them into thick slices so they hold their shape.

• Potatoes: Use Yukon Gold potatoes; their creaminess enhances the overall texture of the stew.

• Onions: Sweet onions work best; they caramelize beautifully when cooked low and slow.

• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds depth to the flavor; don’t skimp!

• Beef Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control salt levels while still delivering robust flavor.

• Thyme and Bay Leaves: These herbs infuse the stew with aromatic richness—don’t forget them!

• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste preferences.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Preparation Phase: Getting Ready

Prep Your Ingredients: Chop your beef into 1-inch cubes and season generously with salt and pepper. Slice your onions, carrots, and potatoes into hearty pieces that can stand up to long cooking times.

Sear the Beef (Optional): In a hot skillet, sear the beef cubes until browned on all sides. This step intensifies the flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.

Cooking Phase: Slow Cooking Magic

Add Everything to Your Slow Cooker: Toss your seared (or unseared) beef into the slow cooker along with your chopped vegetables, garlic, thyme, bay leaves, and pour in the beef broth until everything is covered.

Set It and Forget It!: Cover your slow cooker with its lid and set it on low heat for 8 hours or high heat for 4 hours. The longer it cooks, the more tender and flavorful it becomes!

Finishing Touches: Taste Testing

Taste Test Before Serving: Near the end of cooking time, taste your stew. Add more salt or pepper if needed; remember that flavors often concentrate as they cook.

Spoon It Out!: Ladle generous portions into bowls. Serve with crusty bread or over rice for an extra hearty meal that’ll leave everyone satisfied.

Now you’re ready to dig into a bowl of this deliciously comforting slow cooker beef stew! Trust me; every spoonful will transport you back to those cozy nights filled with laughter and love—a true culinary hug!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the beef for deeper flavor, then add vegetables before the broth to lock in moisture.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in seasonal veggies or add spices like smoked paprika for an extra kick.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave until heated through.

Sharing this stew recipe brings back memories of my grandma’s kitchen, where everyone gathered around the table, savoring every spoonful together.

FAQ

Can I use frozen beef for slow cooker beef stew?

Yes, but thaw it first for even cooking and better texture.

What can I serve with slow cooker beef stew?

Serve it with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.

How long should I cook beef stew in a slow cooker?

Cook on low for 8 hours or high for about 4 hours until tender.

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Slow Cooker Beef Stew

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Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of this slow cooker beef stew, where tender chunks of beef meld beautifully with vibrant carrots and creamy Yukon Gold potatoes. This one-pot wonder simmers to perfection, creating a rich and savory dish that brings family and friends together. Perfect for chilly evenings, this stew is not only easy to prepare but also customizable with your favorite vegetables. Gather around the table and enjoy a bowl of comfort that feels like home.

• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 4 medium carrots, sliced into thick rounds
• 4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, diced
• 1 large sweet onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. 1. Prep Your Ingredients: Season the beef with salt and pepper. Chop onions, carrots, and potatoes into hearty pieces.
2. 2. Sear the Beef (Optional): In a skillet over medium-high heat, sear the beef cubes until browned on all sides.
3. 3. Combine Ingredients: Add the seared (or unseared) beef to a slow cooker along with carrots, potatoes, onions, garlic, thyme, bay leaves, and pour in the broth until covered.
4. 4. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
5. 5. Taste Test: Near the end of cooking time, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
6. 6. Serve: Ladle stew into bowls and enjoy with crusty bread or over rice.

• Author: DANIEL LAWSON
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 hours on low / 4 hours on high
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 90mg