This beef stew is perfect for chilly days! With tender chunks of beef, hearty veggies, and a rich broth, it’s like a warm hug in a bowl. Plus, it’s made in a crock pot, so it’s super easy!
Honestly, just throw everything in the pot and let it do the work. I love coming home to the smell of this stew; it makes me feel all cozy inside. Can’t wait for the leftovers! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is great for stewing because it becomes tender and flavorful over long cooking. If you can’t find chuck roast, you can substitute with brisket or round roast, but cooking time may vary.
Carrots: Fresh carrots are ideal for sweetness and texture. If you’re short on carrots, parsnips or sweet potatoes work nicely too and add a unique flavor.
Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold are my favorites for their creaminess. You can use red potatoes as well. For a low-carb option, go with cauliflower, but adjust the cooking time since it cooks faster.
Red Wine: This adds depth to the flavor. If you prefer not to use wine, just stick with more beef broth or use grape juice. The flavor will still be great!
Herbs: Thyme and rosemary give the stew a classic flavor. Feel free to mix it up and use Italian seasoning or add a bay leaf for extra oomph!
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Browned Beef?
Browning beef before cooking is key to developing rich flavors. Here’s how to do it well:
- Heat your skillet to medium-high and add oil. Make sure it’s hot before adding beef.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Brown in batches instead, so each piece has room to sear well.
- Let it cook without moving it much for a few minutes. Once browned, flip and repeat.
- Transfer the browned beef to the crock pot before continuing with the recipe!
This process adds layers of flavor to your stew and makes it taste restaurant-quality! Enjoy your cooking! 🍲
Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe for Cozy Meals
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional, or use more beef broth)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 cup frozen peas (added near the end)
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cozy meal takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then it simmers away on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. Just set your crock pot, and let it do the work! You’ll soon be enjoying a delicious meal with minimal effort.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Beef:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your beef cubes with salt and pepper. Brown the beef in batches for about 3-4 minutes, until all sides are nicely seared. This step adds amazing flavor to your stew! Once browned, transfer the beef to the crock pot.
2. Sautéing the Aromatics:
Using the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic for about 3 minutes until they become fragrant and soft. Next, add the tomato paste and cook it for 1 minute. Pour in the red wine (if using), and scrape up any tasty brown bits left on the pan. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, then transfer this mixture to the crock pot with the beef.
3. Adding the Veggies and Seasoning:
To the crock pot, add your sliced carrots, diced potatoes, beef broth, dried thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Give everything a good stir to mix it well. This is where all those delicious flavors come together!
4. Cooking Time:
Now, cover the crock pot and let it cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. You want the beef to be tender and the vegetables to be perfectly cooked. The smell during this time will be irresistible!
5. Thickening the Stew:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, create a slurry by mixing the flour with a small amount of water. Stir this into the stew to thicken up the broth. Finally, add the frozen peas, and let everything cook until heated through.
6. Final Touches:
Before serving, remember to take out the bay leaves. Taste your stew and adjust with more salt and pepper if needed. It’s all about making it just right for you!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your cozy beef stew hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if you’d like. Enjoy the warmth and flavor of this delightful dish!
Happy eating! 😊
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Recipe?
It’s best to use thawed beef for even cooking and better browning. If you only have frozen beef chuck, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight or in cold water for a quicker option before starting your stew.
What Can I Substitute for Red Wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with additional beef broth or grape juice. This will maintain moisture and flavor without the alcohol.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the stew for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing!
Can I Make This Stew in an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! To adapt this recipe for an Instant Pot, brown the beef and sauté the vegetables using the sauté function, then add the remaining ingredients and cook on high pressure for about 35-40 minutes, followed by a natural release. This way, you’ll have a delicious stew in much less time!
