Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe
Crock Pot Beef Stew is a warm and hearty dish perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make and allows you to enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort. Just toss in the ingredients, set it, and let the slow cooker do all the work while you go about your day.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make a Crock Pot Beef Stew. First, it is a comforting meal that warms you up, especially on cold days. Second, it is packed with protein and vegetables, making it nutritious. Third, it is a great way to use cheaper cuts of meat, which become tender and flavorful as they cook slowly. Lastly, it’s a one-pot meal, so cleanup is a breeze!
How to Make Crock Pot Beef Stew
Making Crock Pot Beef Stew is simple! Follow these instructions, and you will have a delightful meal ready in no time.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 4 medium carrots (sliced)
- 3 large potatoes (peeled and diced)
- 2 celery stalks (sliced)
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 1 cup frozen peas (added at the end)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Directions
- In a large bowl, toss the beef cubes with flour, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear beef until browned. Then transfer to the crock pot.
- Add beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, garlic, carrots, potatoes, celery, and onion to the crock pot. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 8–9 hours or on high for 4–5 hours until beef is tender and vegetables are cooked through.
- In the last 30 minutes, stir in frozen peas. Adjust seasoning and garnish with parsley before serving.
How to Serve Crock Pot Beef Stew
Crock Pot Beef Stew is best served hot. Ladle the stew into bowls and enjoy it with some crusty bread or over rice. Garnish with fresh parsley to add a touch of color and flavor.
How to Store Crock Pot Beef Stew
To store leftover Crock Pot Beef Stew, let it cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just remember to leave some space in the container, as the stew may expand when frozen.
Tips to Make Crock Pot Beef Stew
- For additional flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the broth.
- You can also throw in other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms according to your preference.
- Make sure to cut the vegetables into even sizes so they cook evenly.
Variation
If you prefer a lighter version, you can use chicken instead of beef. Just adjust the cooking time, as chicken cooks faster.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can use other meats like pork or chicken, but the cooking time may vary.
2. Is it okay to add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables for more flavor and nutrition.
3. Can I make this stew ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it the night before and cook it the next day. Just refrigerate the ingredients separately and combine them in the morning.
Enjoy making your own Crock Pot Beef Stew! It’s a meal that everyone will love and cherish.
