Hearty Slow Cooker Beef Stew That Practically Cooks Itself
There’s just something magical about walking into your kitchen at the end of the day and smelling a rich, savory beef stew simmering away. This Slow Cooker Beef Stew recipe is my go-to when I want something warm, filling, and downright comforting—without standing over the stove for hours.
Tender chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and a deeply flavorful broth come together in the slow cooker while you get on with your day. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, prepping for cozy fall dinners, or just want leftovers that actually taste better the next day, this recipe has your back.
| Serving Size: 6-8 | Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 7 to 8 hours on low | Total Time: Up to 8 hours 15 minutes |
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1 1/2-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for browning beef, optional)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- Optional: 1 cup frozen peas, added at the end for color and sweetness
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef (Optional but recommended)
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Toss the beef cubes in flour, salt, and pepper. Brown the beef in batches until all sides have a nice sear. This step adds incredible depth of flavor, but you can skip it if you’re short on time.
Step 2: Load the Slow Cooker
Add the browned beef (or raw beef if skipping searing) to the slow cooker. Add the carrots, celery, potatoes, onion, garlic, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, herbs, bay leaves, and beef broth. Stir to combine.
Step 3: Set It and Forget It
Cover and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours or high for 4 to 5 hours, until the beef is tender and the veggies are cooked through.
Step 4: Final Touches
Remove bay leaves and stir in frozen peas (if using). Let them heat through for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Beef Stew
- Use the right cut of beef: Chuck roast is ideal because it becomes super tender and flavorful after slow cooking.
- Don’t skip the browning: It’s optional, but taking the time to brown the beef adds that slow-cooked flavor you usually only get after hours in the oven.
- Cut vegetables evenly: This helps them cook uniformly. Aim for 1-inch pieces.
- Thicker stew? At the end of cooking, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it in. Let it cook for another 15–20 minutes to thicken.
Easy Variations
Red Wine Beef Stew:
Replace 1 cup of the beef broth with red wine for a richer, deeper flavor.
Low-Carb Version:
Swap out the potatoes for chunks of rutabaga or cauliflower to lower the carb count.
Spicy Kick:
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to heat things up.
Herb Swap:
Use fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary if you have them. Just double the amount since fresh herbs are milder than dried.
Add Mushrooms:
Throw in 1 cup of sliced mushrooms with the other veggies for an extra layer of umami.
FAQs
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! Beef stew freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, then store in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
Not necessarily. If you’re using Yukon gold or red potatoes, their skins are thin and totally fine to leave on. For russets, peeling is best for texture.
Can I use stew meat instead of chuck roast?
Absolutely. Stew meat works great, just make sure to brown it well for the best texture and flavor.
How do I thicken the stew without flour or cornstarch?
You can blend a portion of the cooked potatoes and broth, then stir it back in for a naturally thickened stew.
Can I make this in an Instant Pot instead?
Yes, but cooking times will vary. Use the sauté setting to brown the meat, then pressure cook everything for about 35 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release.
Related Post: One-Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak and Pasta
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Beef Stew is everything you want in a comfort food recipe: hearty, flavorful, and simple to throw together. It’s the kind of meal that fills your home with delicious aromas and brings everyone to the table without you having to fuss over the stove.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just meal prepping for yourself, this is one of those recipes you’ll come back to again and again. Cozy up, grab a bowl, and enjoy every bite.