Crockpot Beef Stew

Crockpot Beef Stew is one of the most comforting, hearty, and satisfying dishes you can make. This classic recipe transforms simple ingredients—beef, potatoes, carrots, onions, and a rich broth—into a deeply flavorful meal that warms you from the inside out.

Slow cooking allows the beef to become incredibly tender while the vegetables soak up all the savory juices, resulting in a stew that tastes like it simmered all day on the stovetop, even though the crockpot did all the work. This dish has been a staple in homes for generations because it’s filling, nourishing, and incredibly practical.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it brings together everything comforting about home cooking. The slow cooker makes it effortless, yet the flavors are deep and complex.

The beef becomes fork-tender, and the vegetables develop a natural sweetness as they simmer in the broth. It’s the kind of meal that requires minimal preparation but rewards you with maximum satisfaction.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This Crockpot Beef Stew is a must-try because it is dependable, budget-friendly, and nourishing. It’s a complete meal in one pot, filled with protein, vegetables, and rich broth.

If you’ve ever wished for a convenient comfort meal that tastes like it took hours of hands-on cooking, this stew is the answer.

Preparation Time

15 minutes

Cooking Time

8 hours on Low
or
4 to 5 hours on High

Servings

6 to 8 servings

Calories

Approximately 350 to 400 calories per serving

Course

Main Course

Cuisine

American

Ingredients

2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
4 cups beef broth
3 large carrots, chopped
3 potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
3 tablespoons flour (for thickening)
2 tablespoons oil (for optional browning)
1 cup frozen peas (added at the end)
Optional: celery, mushrooms, or turnips

Cooking Directions

1. Add the beef, vegetables, tomato paste, herbs, and seasonings to the crockpot.
2. Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce.
3. Stir to combine ingredients evenly.
4. Cover and cook on Low for 8 hours or on High for 4 to 5 hours.
5. One hour before serving, stir in flour mixed with a little broth to thicken the stew.
6. Add frozen peas during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
7. Adjust seasoning if needed and serve warm.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Cut the beef into uniform cubes for even cooking.
2. Optional: Brown the beef in oil in a skillet for 3 to 4 minutes per side. This develops richer flavor but is not required.
3. Place beef into the crockpot.
4. Add chopped carrots, potatoes, onions, and garlic.
5. Stir in tomato paste to give the stew body and depth.
6. Add dried thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
7. Pour the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce over the mixture.
8. Stir well to coat the ingredients.
9. Cover the crockpot and cook according to desired time setting.
10. Mix flour with a small amount of warm broth and stir into the stew to thicken.
11. Add peas at the end for color and freshness.
12. Remove bay leaves and serve hot.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve Crockpot Beef Stew in deep bowls with the rich broth ladled generously over the tender beef and vegetables. It pairs wonderfully with:

Crusty bread
Dinner rolls
Mashed potatoes
Warm biscuits
Side salad

For a heartier meal, serve with rice, buttered noodles, or polenta.

Recipe Tips

Brown the beef for deeper flavor, though it’s optional.
Do not cut potatoes too small or they may disintegrate during cooking.
Use low-sodium broth if you prefer to control salt levels.
Add peas at the end to keep their color and texture.
For thicker stew, increase the flour or mix in a cornstarch slurry.

Variations

Hearty Vegetable Stew: Omit beef and add more vegetables like mushrooms, turnips, and celery.
Guinness Beef Stew: Replace one cup of broth with Guinness beer for bold flavor.
Italian Beef Stew: Add diced tomatoes, basil, and Italian seasoning.
Spicy Beef Stew: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
Smoky Beef Stew: Add smoked paprika and a splash of liquid smoke.

Freezing and Storage Time

Refrigerator: Store up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Special Equipment Needed

Crockpot or slow cooker
Cutting board and knife
Large spoon or ladle
Optional skillet for browning beef
Airtight containers for leftovers

Conclusion

Crockpot Beef Stew is a classic, comforting dish that brings warmth, nourishment, and rich flavor to your table with minimal effort. Its tender beef, hearty vegetables, and aromatic broth make it an ideal choice for cold days, busy schedules, or meal prepping. With endless variations and simple ingredients, it’s a timeless recipe every home cook should master. Whether enjoyed fresh or reheated as leftovers, this stew always satisfies and delivers true homemade comfort.

If you’d like more slow cooker recipes or side dish suggestions, I’d be happy to help.