There’s nothing more comforting than a slow cooker beef stew that fills the kitchen with rich, savory aromas.
Tender chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and warm herbs simmer together for hours, creating a meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.
This recipe is simple to prepare and perfect for busy days when you want a cozy dinner waiting for you.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This stew cooks low and slow, giving the beef an incredibly tender texture.
The vegetables soak up the flavors of the broth, making every bite rich and hearty.
It’s a one-pot meal, so cleanup is minimal.
The recipe is flexible and can be adapted with different vegetables or herbs.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Beef stew meat brings a deep, savory flavor that softens beautifully in the slow cooker.
Carrots and potatoes add natural sweetness and bulk, making the stew filling.
Beef broth combined with tomato paste builds a flavorful base.
Aromatic herbs like thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf provide warmth and depth.
Frozen peas add a pop of freshness and color at the end.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Brown the beef before adding it to the slow cooker for extra flavor.
Cut vegetables evenly so they cook at the same rate.
Don’t skip flouring the beef—it thickens the stew naturally.
Remove the bay leaf before serving to avoid bitterness.
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Step 1 – Prepare the beef
Coat beef cubes in flour, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 2 – Brown the meat
Heat olive oil in a skillet, then sear beef cubes in batches until golden.
Transfer to the slow cooker.
Step 3 – Add the vegetables
Place carrots, potatoes, onion, and garlic into the slow cooker with the beef.
Step 4 – Mix the broth
Pour in beef broth, then stir in tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf until combined.
Step 5 – Cook the stew
Cover and cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours until beef is tender.
Step 6 – Add the peas
Stir in frozen peas 30 minutes before serving. Remove bay leaf.
Step 7 – Adjust seasoning
Taste and add salt and pepper as needed.
Step 8 – Serve
Ladle into bowls, garnish with parsley, and enjoy with crusty bread.
What to Serve Them With
This stew is perfect with crusty bread for dipping.
It also pairs wonderfully with rice or buttered egg noodles.
Serve with a simple green salad to balance the richness.
Variations / Substitutions
Swap beef for lamb or chicken for a different twist.
Add celery or parsnips for extra vegetables.
Use fresh herbs instead of dried for brighter flavor.
Replace peas with green beans or corn if preferred.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freeze portions for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if too thick.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe without browning the beef?
Yes, but browning adds more depth of flavor to the stew.
Can I use chicken broth instead of beef broth?
You can, but the flavor will be lighter and less rich.
What cut of beef works best for stew?
Chuck roast or stew beef cubes are ideal because they become tender when slow-cooked.
Can I add wine to the stew?
Yes, replace part of the broth with red wine for extra richness.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
Peeling is optional; leaving the skin on adds texture and nutrients.
Can I cook this overnight?
Yes, set it on low and let it cook while you sleep for a ready meal in the morning.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply coat the beef with cornstarch instead of flour.
How do I thicken the stew more?
Mash some of the potatoes into the broth or stir in a cornstarch slurry.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, as long as your slow cooker is large enough to hold the ingredients.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Warm on the stove over low heat to keep the beef tender.
Final Thoughts
This slow cooker beef stew is hearty, flavorful, and endlessly comforting.
It’s the kind of dish that makes family dinners special and keeps you coming back for another bowl.
Once you try it, you’ll want it in your regular meal rotation.
