Slow Cooker Beef Stew

This Slow Cooker Beef Stew is the perfect dish for cozy evenings or family gatherings. With tender beef, hearty vegetables, and rich flavors, it’s a timeless classic that warms the soul. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a quiet night at home, this stew is sure to impress. The slow cooking method ensures all the ingredients meld beautifully, resulting in a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just toss everything into your slow cooker and let it do the work while you relax.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of red wine and beef broth creates a deep, flavorful base that enhances every bite.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables or herbs to make it your own.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week or freeze for later.
• Comfort Food Delight: Ideal for chilly days, this stew warms you from the inside out.

Tools and Preparation

To achieve the best results with your Slow Cooker Beef Stew, having the right tools is essential. Below are the necessary items you’ll need for preparation and cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Silicone spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This tool allows for low and slow cooking, which makes the beef incredibly tender.
• Large skillet: Browning meat in batches helps develop rich flavors before adding them to the slow cooker.
• Cutting board: A sturdy cutting surface is essential for chopping vegetables safely and efficiently.
• Silicone spatula: Perfect for scraping up browned bits from the skillet, ensuring no flavor goes to waste.

Ingredients

This traditional Beef Stew is loaded with tender bites of juicy beef, golden potatoes, carrots, peas, red wine, onions, garlic, and a hearty beef broth. It’s the BEST Slow Cooker recipe for Fall and Winter.

• 2 ½ pounds stew meat (see notes)
• ½ teaspoon EACH: black pepper, garlic salt, celery salt
• 1/4 cup flour
• 3-6 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons cold butter (divided)
• 2 cups yellow onions (diced)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup cabernet sauvignon (or merlot. See notes.)
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 beef bouillon cubes
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 5 medium carrots (cut into 1-inch chunks)
• 1 lb. baby Yukon gold potatoes (halved or quartered)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 sprig rosemary
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1/4 cup Cold Water + 3 tablespoons Corn Starch (Optional)
• 2-3 drops Gravy Master (Optional– Adds a richer, darker color.)

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Step 1: Prepare the Meat

1. Cut meat into 1-inch cubes, discarding any large pieces of fat. Fat marbleized into the meat is fine!
2. Sprinkle beef with black pepper, garlic salt, and celery salt. Toss to coat.
3. Sprinkle flour over the meat and toss again.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

1. Heat 3 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the meat in batches; don’t overcrowd the pan.
3. Brown on each side for about 45 seconds. Add more oil if needed.
4. Transfer browned meat to the slow cooker.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

1. Reduce heat to medium; melt 1 tablespoon of butter in the same skillet.
2. Add diced onions and cook for about 5 minutes until softened.
3. Add minced garlic; cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in a splash of wine to loosen browned bits from the skillet using a silicone spatula.
5. Transfer onions, garlic, and remaining wine to slow cooker.

Step 4: Assemble Remaining Ingredients

1. Add all remaining ingredients except for peas, cornstarch mixture, and two tablespoons of cold butter to the slow cooker.

Step 5: Slow Cook

1. Cook on low for approximately 7½ to 8 hours or high for about 3½ to 4 hours until vegetables are softened and potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 6: Final Touches

1. Add frozen peas during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
2. Remove bay leaves and rosemary stem before serving.

Optional Step: Thicken Your Stew

1. To thicken, combine cold water with cornstarch in a bowl; mix thoroughly.
2. Slowly add it to stew while stirring until incorporated; it will continue thickening as it stands.

Step 7: Finish Off Your Stew

1. Turn off heat; swirl in two tablespoons of cold butter for a smooth finish known as Monter au Beurre.
2. Optional: Add three drops of Gravy Master for an even darker color before serving.

Enjoy your warm bowl of Slow Cooker Beef Stew!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Serving Slow Cooker Beef Stew is an opportunity to elevate your dining experience. This hearty dish pairs well with various accompaniments, enhancing its rich flavors and comforting nature.

With Crusty Bread

• Sourdough or Baguette: A slice of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious broth.

Over Rice

• White or Brown Rice: Serve the stew over a bed of fluffy rice for a filling meal that absorbs all the savory juices.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley or Thyme: Sprinkle fresh herbs on top for a pop of color and added freshness.

With a Side Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the stew and adds a refreshing crunch.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture complements the stew’s heartiness and makes it even more comforting.

Accompanied by Roasted Vegetables

• Seasonal Roasted Veggies: Roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini add extra nutrition and flavor to your meal.

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How to Perfect Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Perfecting your Slow Cooker Beef Stew involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Choose Quality Meat: Use high-quality beef chuck for tender results that melt in your mouth.

• Brown the Meat Properly: Browning enhances flavor through caramelization, adding depth to your stew.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will provide better flavor compared to dried or pre-packaged options.

• Adjust Seasoning Towards the End: Taste your stew before serving and adjust seasoning as needed for a balanced flavor.

• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the stew to sit for a few minutes helps flavors meld together beautifully.

• Thicken Wisely: If you prefer a thicker consistency, use cornstarch mixed with cold water towards the end of cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Beef Stew can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: A buttery, garlicky loaf is perfect for dipping into the rich broth.

2. Coleslaw: The crunchy texture and tangy flavor offer a refreshing contrast to the warm stew.

3. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread complements savory flavors beautifully, making it a hearty addition.

4. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes provide a satisfying crunch alongside the tender stew.

5. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds nutrients and color, balancing out your plate.

6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with veggies offers a healthy boost while remaining filling.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Slow Cooker Beef Stew, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish. Here are some tips to ensure success.

• Skipping the Browning Step: Failing to brown the beef before adding it to the slow cooker can lead to a less flavorful stew. Always brown the meat to develop rich flavors.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Adding too much meat at once can steam rather than brown it. Cook in batches to achieve that perfect sear on all pieces.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Under-seasoning can leave your stew bland. Make sure to season throughout the cooking process for maximum flavor.
• Ignoring Vegetable Sizes: Cutting vegetables unevenly leads to inconsistent cooking times. Aim for uniform size to ensure everything cooks evenly.
• Not Using Enough Liquid: Insufficient liquid can dry out your stew. Always check that there’s enough broth or wine covering the ingredients for a moist dish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker Beef Stew

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Slow Cooker Beef Stew

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place stew in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, reheating until hot.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Transfer stew into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Slow Cooker Beef Stew.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, you can substitute chuck roast or brisket for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the cut is suitable for slow cooking.

How do I make my stew thicker?

To thicken your Slow Cooker Beef Stew, you can add a cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking or mash some potatoes into the stew.

What vegetables work well in beef stew?

Besides carrots and potatoes, feel free to add mushrooms, green beans, or parsnips for added texture and flavor.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Beef Stew is perfect for cozy nights when you crave comfort food. Its rich flavors and hearty ingredients make it a versatile option for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices for a personal touch. Try this recipe today, and enjoy a warm bowl of deliciousness!