This Ultimate Tender Slow Cooker Beef Stew is a hearty gem among the best beef slow cooker recipes. Succulent beef, potatoes, and carrots meld in a rich, savory broth in your crockpot. Perfect for cozy nights, it’s a flavorful, no-fuss meal that warms the soul effortlessly.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
Sear beef cubes before slow cooking for a flavor boost—don’t overcrowd the pan! Cut veggies into uniform chunks for even cooking. Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness. Thicken with a flour slurry if you like it hearty. Prep the night before and let the crockpot work its magic.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Get ready to cozy up with this Ultimate Tender Slow Cooker Beef Stew—it’s the kind of dish that makes you wonder how something so easy can taste so incredible, earning its spot among the best beef slow cooker recipes! This stew is pure comfort in a bowl: beef cubes turn melt-in-your-mouth tender after hours in the crockpot, mingling with hearty potatoes and sweet carrots in a rich, savory broth that warms you from the inside out. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it dream—perfect for busy days when you want a home-cooked meal without the fuss. Whether you’re curling up after a long day or feeding a hungry crew, this stew delivers big on flavor and satisfaction—slow-cooked bliss you’ll crave again and again!
Ultimate Tender Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Tender beef, potatoes, and carrots in a rich broth—ultimate slow cooker stew.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef stew meat (chuck), cubed
- 3 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 3 large carrots, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
Instructions
- Get Ready for Stew Heaven: Gather your gear—a slow cooker, a skillet, a cutting board, a knife, and a spatula. This ultimate beef stew’s about to fill your home with cozy vibes, so let’s set up for some crockpot magic with a big, excited grin!
- Season the Beef: Pat your beef stew meat dry with paper towels—dry cubes sear better! Sprinkle with salt and pepper, tossing them in a bowl to coat evenly. These little chunks are about to become the tender heart of your stew—let’s give them some love!
- Sear the Beef: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with 2 tablespoons olive oil until it’s shimmering. Add the beef in batches—don’t crowd!—and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. This step locks in flavor—transfer each batch to the slow cooker with a spatula!
- Prep the Veggies: Peel and cube your potatoes into 1-inch pieces, slice your carrots into thick rounds, and chop your onion into chunks. Uniform sizes mean even cooking—toss them into the slow cooker over the beef, picturing this hearty mix coming together!
- Add the Flavor Base: Pour 2 cups of low-sodium beef broth into the slow cooker, then sprinkle in the minced garlic and 1 teaspoon dried thyme. Stir gently with a spoon—these aromatics are about to turn your stew into a savory masterpiece as it simmers!
- Set the Slow Cooker: Pop the lid on your slow cooker and set it to low for 7-8 hours—or high for 4-5 hours if you’re short on time. Let it bubble away while you kick back—your kitchen’s going to smell like cozy perfection soon!
- Check the Tenderness: After cooking, peek inside—the beef should be fork-tender and veggies soft! If it needs more time, give it another hour on low. This is slow cooking at its best—patience turns tough meat into melt-in-your-mouth goodness!
- Thicken (Optional): If you like a thicker stew, scoop out ½ cup of broth into a small bowl, whisk in 2 tablespoons flour until smooth, then stir it back into the slow cooker. Let it cook on high for 10-15 minutes—watch it turn rich and hearty!
- Taste and Adjust: Give your stew a taste—need more salt, pepper, or a pinch of thyme? Tweak it now to make it just right. Stir one last time, letting those flavors meld into a warm, comforting dish that’s ready to shine!
- Serve and Savor: Ladle the stew into bowls—grab a spoon and dive into the tender beef, soft potatoes, and sweet carrots swimming in that rich broth. It’s slow cooker comfort at its finest—enjoy every hearty bite and let it warm your soul!
Notes
- Sear beef in batches for a golden crust—crowding steams instead of browns.
- Cut veggies evenly to cook uniformly—too small and they’ll mush up.
- Thicken at the end if desired—flour slurry needs heat to work its magic.
Nutrition Information
Yield
6Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 443Total Fat 15gSaturated Fat 5gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 10gCholesterol 150mgSodium 341mgCarbohydrates 25gFiber 3gSugar 3gProtein 53g
The recipes and nutritional information on Crock Pot Meal are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.
Ingredients Notes
Beef stew meat (chuck) is ideal—its marbling breaks down into tender bites. Potatoes provide starch and heartiness—russets hold up well. Carrots add sweetness and color—fresh is best. Beef broth forms the savory base—low-sodium keeps it balanced. Garlic and thyme bring aromatic depth to this classic stew.
Variations and Substitutions
Swap beef for pork or lamb for a different twist. Use sweet potatoes or parsnips instead of regular potatoes. Sub carrots with celery or peas for variety. Add a splash of red wine or Worcestershire sauce for richness. Thicken with cornstarch instead of flour for gluten-free.
Storage Options
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days—flavors improve overnight! Reheat on the stove or microwave with a splash of broth. Freezes well for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Dish Gallery
Please share this Ultimate Tender Slow Cooker Beef Stew with your friends and do a comment below about your feedback.
We will meet you on next article.
Until you can read, Slow Cooker Italian Beef with Peppers