Here’s an easy and comforting recipe for Slow Cooker Beef Stew. It’s perfect for a hearty meal with tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and a savory broth that’s simple to prepare but full of rich flavor!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with more beef broth)
- 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional, added near the end of cooking)
Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
- In a large bowl, toss the beef stew meat with the flour, salt, and pepper until well coated.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches for 3-4 minutes, turning to brown all sides. This step helps develop flavor, but you can skip it if you’re in a hurry and add the beef directly to the slow cooker.
- Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker.
2. Add the Vegetables and Broth:
- To the slow cooker, add the carrots, potatoes, onion, and garlic.
- Pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using). Stir in the thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook the Stew:
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
4. Add the Peas (Optional):
- If using, add the frozen peas during the last 30 minutes of cooking to keep them vibrant and tender.
5. Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the bay leaf and taste the stew for seasoning, adjusting salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve the stew hot, with some crusty bread or over rice, if desired.
Tips:
- Thicken the Stew: If you like a thicker stew, mix 2 tbsp of cornstarch with 2 tbsp of cold water and stir it into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Make it Extra Savory: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce to deepen the flavor.
- Freezer-Friendly: This stew can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container.
This Easy Slow Cooker Beef Stew is a perfect dish for busy days when you want a delicious and hearty meal ready to go with minimal effort. Enjoy!