Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe
If you’re looking for a hearty meal that practically cooks itself, you’ll love this Slow Cooker Beef Stew recipe. I can’t tell you how many times it’s saved me on busy days.
The aroma fills my home, making my stomach growl in anticipation. What’s even better is that I can throw everything in the slow cooker and forget about it for hours.
When dinnertime arrives, the meat is tender, and the flavors meld together beautifully. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, which means fewer dishes to wash.
Trust me, your family will ask for seconds—and you’ll want to make it again!
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Beef Stew
When it comes to making a comforting bowl of Slow Cooker Beef Stew, having the right ingredients is key. You might think, “What could be so special about a stew?” but trust me, this one is packed with flavor and hearty goodness. Plus, it uses simple, fresh ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry or fridge.
So, let’s gather what we need to make this delicious dish that’s sure to warm you up from the inside out.
Here’s a handy list of the ingredients you’ll need to whip up this delightful beef stew:
- 2 lbs boneless beef top round steaks
- 8 medium carrots
- 1 lb small red potatoes
- 1 medium red pepper, chopped
- 1 (14 1/2 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 1/4 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon pepper
Now, before you run off to the grocery store, let’s talk about a few things to reflect on when picking your ingredients.
First, the choice of beef is essential. Top round steaks are great because they’re lean and tenderize beautifully during the slow cooking process, but you could also use chuck roast if you prefer a fattier cut.
When it comes to veggies, feel free to mix and match based on what you have on hand—sweet potatoes, peas, or even green beans could add a unique twist.
And don’t skimp on the seasonings; they’re what bring everything to life. Just imagine the aroma wafting through your home as it cooks!
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Making Slow Cooker Beef Stew is as easy as pie—well, maybe easier since we all know pie can be a bit tricky. Let’s explore the delicious process of creating a warm bowl of comfort.
First things first, grab your 2 lbs of boneless beef top round steaks. Now, chop those bad boys into 1-inch cubes. Don’t stress if they’re not perfect; a little rustic charm is what we’re going for here.
Next, take 8 medium carrots and slice them into 1-inch pieces. And let’s not forget about the 1 lb of small red potatoes; quarter them so they can soak up all that tasty stew goodness. Finally, grab a medium red pepper and chop it up. You’re basically building a colorful veggie rainbow.
Now comes the fun part—browning the beef! Heat up a large skillet over medium-high heat, and toss the beef cubes in there. Sear them on all sides until they’re nice and brown. This step is essential because it locks in the juices and gives your stew a deep flavor.
While that’s happening, take your 5-quart slow cooker and toss in all those beautiful veggies you just prepared. Open up your 14 1/2-ounce can of diced tomatoes (don’t drain it) and pour it over the veggies. It’s like a little tomato shower.
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 (6-ounce) can of tomato paste, and 1 1/4 cups of beef broth until smooth. Add in 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of minced garlic, and 1 teaspoon of pepper. This mixture is going to be the magic sauce that ties everything together.
After all that hard work (and maybe a little splatter), pour that glorious sauce over the veggies in the slow cooker and then add the browned beef on top. Cover it up, set your slow cooker to low, and let it work its magic for 6 to 8 hours.
Seriously, during this time, your house is going to smell like a five-star restaurant, and you might find yourself wondering why you don’t cook like this every day. When the time is up, the meat should be tender enough to practically melt in your mouth.
Grab a big bowl, scoop in that hearty stew, and enjoy the fruits of your labor. You did it! You made a meal that could warm even the coldest of days.
Slow Cooker Beef Stew Substitutions & Variations
After savoring that warm bowl of beef stew, you might find yourself wanting to customize the recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs.
I love swapping out the beef for chicken or even mushrooms for a vegetarian option. You can also play with the veggies; try adding parsnips or sweet potatoes for a twist.
If you prefer a thicker stew, just mix in a bit of cornstarch at the end. And don’t forget about spices! A dash of Worcestershire sauce or some fresh herbs can elevate the flavors.
Get creative, and make it your own!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Beef Stew
While enjoying a hearty bowl of slow cooker beef stew, I’ve found that pairing it with the right sides can enhance the meal. A crusty loaf of bread is perfect for soaking up that rich broth.
I also love serving it alongside buttery mashed potatoes, which balance the stew’s flavors beautifully. For a lighter option, a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a nice crunch.
If you’re feeling adventurous, roasted Brussels sprouts make a delightful side, too. These pairings not only complement the stew but also elevate the dining experience, making each bite even more satisfying.
Additional Tips & Notes
Pairing your slow cooker beef stew with the right sides can enhance the overall meal experience, but there are also some additional tips that can take your stew to the next level.
First, consider adding a splash of red wine for depth; it really elevates the flavors. If you like a thicker stew, mix in a cornstarch slurry toward the end.
Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving!
Finally, let it sit for a few minutes after cooking; the flavors meld beautifully.
Enjoy experimenting and find what makes your stew uniquely yours!