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The Best Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Best Slow Cooker Beef Stew

A hearty and comforting beef stew made effortlessly in a slow cooker, perfect for chilly nights.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds Beef stew meat Chuck roast or round, cut into 1-inch cubes.
  • 4 large Carrots Peeled and cut into chunks.
  • 4 medium Potatoes Peeled and cubed.
  • 1 large Onion Chopped.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced.
  • 3 cups Beef broth For a rich base.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce Adds depth of flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato paste For richness.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried thyme Herb for flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried rosemary Herb for flavor.
  • to taste Salt and pepper For seasoning.
  • 3 tablespoons Flour To coat beef.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil For browning the beef.
Optional Ingredients
  • 1 cup Red wine For depth of flavor.
  • 1-2 tablespoons Soy sauce For umami.
  • 1 cup Mushrooms Sliced, for earthiness.
  • 1-2 stalks Celery Chopped, for crunch.
  • to taste Fresh herbs (parsley or basil) For garnish.

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • large skillet
  • cutting board
  • knife
  • measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

  1. Season the beef stew meat with salt and pepper, then toss in flour to coat evenly.
  2. Chop the carrots, potatoes, onion, and mince the garlic.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
  4. Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker. Add the chopped vegetables around the beef.
  5. In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste. Stir in thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves, then pour over the beef and vegetables.
  6. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until the beef is tender.
  7. Once cooked, remove bay leaves and serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

This stew is perfect for customizing with your favorite vegetables and seasonings.