Crockpot Beef Stew Recipe: The Ultimate Comfort Food

Why This Crockpot Beef Stew Recipe Stands Out

When it comes to hearty, comforting meals, nothing beats a rich Crockpot Beef Stew recipe. This dish is loaded with tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and savory broth, making it the perfect go-to meal for chilly days. Whether you’re prepping for a Sunday family dinner or looking for leftovers that taste even better the next day, this recipe delivers both convenience and exceptional flavor.

Ingredients for the Perfect Crockpot Beef Stew

Here’s everything you need to create a full-bodied beef stew that your family will love:

Main Ingredients:

• 3 lbs chuck roast, cut into cubes
• 1/2 cup flour (for dredging the beef)
• 4 tbsp butter
• 1 cup Cabernet Sauvignon red wine (or substitute with beef broth)
• 2 lbs Yukon gold potatoes, chopped into large pieces
• 1 1/2 cups celery, chopped
• 2 cups carrots, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 6 oz tomato paste
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 3 cups beef broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 1/2 cups frozen peas

Seasonings:

• Salt, pepper, garlic powder (for the beef)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp each pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Crockpot Beef Stew

1. Prep the Ingredients

Start by preparing all of your vegetables and meat:

• Chop the vegetables: Cut carrots, celery, onions, and Yukon gold potatoes into large, bite-sized chunks to prevent overcooking.
• Season the meat: Cut the chuck roast into cubes and season it generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Toss the meat in 1/2 cup of flour to help seal in the flavor and thicken the stew.

Pro Tip: Save time by prepping the veggies and meat the night before.

2. Brown the Beef

Browning the beef before slow-cooking enhances its depth of flavor:

• Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tbsp of butter.
• Brown half of the floured beef cubes on all sides and remove them. Add the remaining 2 tbsp of butter and repeat with the rest of the beef.
• Deglaze the skillet by adding 1 cup of red wine (or beef broth). Scrape up all the browned bits and turn off the heat.

3. Assemble in the Crockpot

Now, it’s time to load everything into your crockpot:

1. Spray the crockpot with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Place the browned beef in the crockpot and pour the wine (or broth) over it.
3. Add the chopped vegetables (celery, carrots, onions, and potatoes).
4. Season with salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika.
5. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth.
6. Top with bay leaves for added aroma.

4. Slow Cook for Tender Perfection

• Cook the stew on LOW for 8-10 hours. The low-and-slow method ensures the beef becomes tender and the flavors meld perfectly.
• About 15-20 minutes before serving, add 1 1/2 cups of frozen peas to the crockpot and allow them to heat through.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Once the peas are hot and the stew is perfectly cooked, it’s ready to serve. Pair this hearty beef stew with crusty bread, like a baguette, to soak up the delicious broth.

Leftover Tip: This stew tastes even better the next day. Use leftovers to make a comforting beef pot pie for a unique twist!

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Beef Stew Recipe

1. Easy and Convenient: Perfect for busy schedules—prep in the morning and let the crockpot do the work.
2. Family-Friendly: This recipe feeds 4-6 people easily, making it ideal for family dinners and leftovers.
3. Comfort Food Classic: Rich, tender beef combined with hearty vegetables creates the ultimate cozy meal.
4. Versatile: Swap ingredients like red wine for beef broth or customize the veggies to suit your taste.

Tips for the Best Crockpot Beef Stew

• Choose the Right Cut of Meat: Chuck roast is ideal for stew because of its marbling, which keeps the meat juicy and tender after slow cooking. If using stew meat, cook for the full 8-10 hours for best results.
• Keep Veggies Chunky: Cut carrots and potatoes into larger pieces to avoid mushy vegetables.
• Wine or Broth?: Red wine adds a rich, complex flavor, but you can substitute it with beef broth for an alcohol-free option.
• Don’t Forget the Bay Leaves: Keep bay leaves near the top for easy removal before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this recipe without wine?
Yes! Simply replace the 1 cup of red wine with an equal amount of beef broth.

2. What are the best potatoes for beef stew?
Yukon gold potatoes are the top choice because of their creamy texture and ability to hold their shape during cooking.

3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the stew for up to 3 months.

4. Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Try adding mushrooms, green beans, or parsnips for added variety and flavor.

A Crockpot Beef Stew Recipe Worth Saving

This Crockpot Beef Stew recipe is a game-changer for anyone who craves a hearty, home-cooked meal. With tender beef, perfectly cooked vegetables, and a rich, savory broth, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy Sunday dinner or prepping for leftovers during the week, this dish delivers on flavor, ease, and comfort every time.

Ready to impress your family? Follow this simple Crockpot Beef Stew recipe and enjoy the ultimate comfort food today!