Crockpot Beef Stew

This easy Crockpot Beef Stew recipe promises a comforting dish with fall-apart tender beef and a medley of vegetables, all simmered in a rich brown gravy. With just 10 minutes of prep time, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings. This stew is not only simple to make but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making it an ideal choice for various occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep Time: With only 10 minutes needed to prepare, you can easily fit this recipe into your busy schedule.
• Flavorful Comfort: The combination of beef and vegetables cooked slowly results in deep, rich flavors that warm the soul.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the veggies or spices based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.
• Set It and Forget It: Just place everything in the crockpot and let it do the work while you enjoy your day.
• Family-Friendly: This hearty dish is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience easier, certain tools are essential for this Crockpot Beef Stew recipe. Having the right tools ensures efficiency and better results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker (crockpot)
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker (crockpot): This is the star of the show! It allows for slow cooking, which enhances flavors and tenderness in the beef.
• Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements ensure that flavors are balanced in your stew.
• Mixing bowl: A handy tool for preparing cornstarch slurry for thickening without making a mess.

Ingredients

This easy Crockpot Beef Stew recipe features tender beef combined with fresh vegetables for a delightful meal.

For the Broth Base

• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper (freshly cracked)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon beef bouillon
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

For the Vegetables

• 1 ½ pounds golden Yukon potatoes (cut into chunks)
• 2 cups sliced carrots
• 1 large yellow onion (sliced)
• 1 cup frozen sweet peas

For Thickening

• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons water

How to Make Crockpot Beef Stew

Step 1: Prepare the Broth

Start by pouring the beef broth into your crockpot. Add the cubed stew beef along with garlic powder, black pepper, salt, beef bouillon, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix gently to combine all ingredients.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Layer the cut potatoes, sliced carrots, and onions on top of the beef mixture. This will allow them to cook evenly while absorbing all those delicious flavors.

Step 3: Set Cooking Time

Cover your crockpot with its lid and set it to cook. Choose between high heat for about 4-6 hours or low heat for approximately 6-8 hours until the beef becomes fork-tender.

Step 4: Incorporate Sweet Peas

Once the stew has finished cooking, add in the frozen sweet peas. Stir gently to incorporate them into the stew.

Step 5: Thicken the Gravy

To thicken your gravy, create a slurry using cornstarch and water. In a separate bowl, whisk together until smooth. Slowly pour this mixture into your crockpot while stirring continuously until well combined.

Step 6: Final Cooking Phase

Replace the lid on your crockpot and turn it to high heat. Cook for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened to your liking. Serve immediately and enjoy!

This Crockpot Beef Stew is not only easy to prepare but will also become a staple in your home-cooked meals!

How to Serve Crockpot Beef Stew

Crockpot Beef Stew is a hearty dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you serve it on its own or with a side, this stew is sure to please everyone at the table.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked bread pairs perfectly with the rich gravy, allowing you to soak up every last drop.

Over Mashed Potatoes

• Serve the beef stew over creamy mashed potatoes for an added layer of comfort and flavor.

With a Side Salad

• A light green salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the stew, making for a well-rounded meal.

In a Bread Bowl

• For a fun twist, serve the stew in hollowed-out bread bowls. This makes for an impressive presentation!

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme on top enhances both the flavor and appearance of your dish.

How to Perfect Crockpot Beef Stew

For those looking to elevate their Crockpot Beef Stew, here are some helpful tips to ensure it turns out perfect every time.

• Choose Quality Meat: Using high-quality beef will result in more tender and flavorful stew.

• Brown the Meat First: Browning the beef before adding it to the crockpot can enhance the overall flavor profile of your stew.

• Adjust Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to taste as you go! You can always add more salt or herbs to suit your preferences.

• Layer Ingredients Wisely: Place sturdier vegetables like potatoes and carrots on the bottom of the pot so they cook evenly alongside the beef.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs will provide a brighter flavor compared to dried versions.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Beef Stew

While Crockpot Beef Stew is satisfying on its own, pairing it with delicious sides can elevate your meal even further. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread – Perfect for dipping into your stew’s flavorful broth; just spread butter and minced garlic on slices of bread and toast them.

2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil add a vibrant contrast and extra nutrients to your meal.

3. Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs complements the hearty flavors of beef stew beautifully.

4. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread provides a delightful balance to the savory stew; serve it warm for best results.

5. Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and texture that contrasts nicely with the warmth of the stew.

6. Steamed Green Beans – Lightly steamed green beans add color and crunch; drizzle them with lemon juice for extra zing.

7. Baked Potatoes – Simple baked potatoes offer another comforting base for enjoying your beef stew.

8. Quinoa Salad – A protein-packed quinoa salad mixed with vegetables offers a healthy side that pairs well with stews.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crockpot Beef Stew, it’s easy to make some common missteps. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Bold seasoning errors: Not seasoning the beef properly can result in bland stew. Always season the meat before adding other ingredients.
• Bold overcrowding the pot: Adding too many ingredients can lead to uneven cooking. Stick to the recipe measurements for best results.
• Bold ignoring cook times: Cooking on high for too long can dry out the meat. Follow recommended cooking times for perfectly tender beef.
• Bold skipping the thickening step: Neglecting to thicken the gravy makes for a watery stew. Use cornstarch slurry at the end for a rich, hearty consistency.
• Bold using low-quality broth: Poor-quality broth can affect flavor. Opt for good-quality beef broth or homemade options.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Crockpot Beef Stew in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Crockpot Beef Stew

• Allow stew to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Crockpot Beef Stew

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Crockpot Beef Stew:

How long does Crockpot Beef Stew take to cook?

Crockpot Beef Stew takes about 4-6 hours on high or 6-8 hours on low.

Can I use other meats in this stew?

Yes! You can substitute chicken, turkey, or lamb for beef if desired.

How do I make my Crockpot Beef Stew thicker?

Add a cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking and let it thicken on high heat for about 10 minutes.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Beef Stew is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding various vegetables or changing up the seasoning. With its hearty flavors and comforting texture, it’s sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Give this easy recipe a try today!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Crockpot Beef Stew

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: Serves about 6 people 1x

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Description

Crockpot Beef Stew is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. This hearty dish features tender beef simmered to perfection with a medley of fresh vegetables in a rich, savory broth. With just a quick 10-minute prep time, you can set your slow cooker and let it work its magic while you focus on your day. The result is a flavorful stew that warms the soul and satisfies the whole family. Customize it with your favorite veggies or spices, making it as versatile as it is delicious.

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Ingredients

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• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon beef bouillon
• 1 ½ pounds golden Yukon potatoes, cut into chunks
• 2 cups sliced carrots
• 1 large yellow onion, sliced
• 1 cup frozen sweet peas
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons water

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Instructions

1. Pour the beef broth into the crockpot and add cubed stew beef along with garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and beef bouillon. Mix gently.
2. Layer potatoes, carrots, and onions on top of the beef mixture.
3. Cover and cook on high for 4-6 hours or low for 6-8 hours until beef is fork-tender.
4. Stir in frozen sweet peas after cooking.
5. In a bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry; pour into the crockpot while stirring until well combined.
6. Cover and cook on high for an additional 10 minutes to thicken before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 23g
• Cholesterol: 65mg