Hearty Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Nothing beats a warm bowl of Slow Cooker Beef Stew on a chilly evening. This comforting recipe combines tender chunks of beef with carrots, onions, celery, and a rich, savory broth. After slow cooking for hours, the beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender while the vegetables soak up all the delicious flavors. It's an easy, family-friendly meal that's perfect for busy weekdays or cozy weekends.
Ingredients
2 lbs beef chuck, cut into cubes
2 tbsp olive oil
4 carrots, chopped
3 celery stalks, sliced
1 large onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups beef broth
1 cup red wine (optional)
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp rosemary
2 bay leaves
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a skillet and brown the beef cubes for 2 to 3 minutes on each side.
Transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
Add carrots, celery, onion, and garlic.
In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, red wine, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
Pour the mixture over the beef and vegetables. Add the bay leaves.
Cover and cook on Low for 8 to 9 hours or High for 4 to 5 hours.
If you prefer a thicker stew, mix cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Remove the bay leaves, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or rice.
Tips
Use beef chuck for the most tender results.
Browning the beef first adds extra flavor.
Add potatoes or mushrooms for an even heartier meal.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
This Slow Cooker Beef Stew is rich, hearty, and packed with comforting flavors, making it a perfect one-pot dinner the whole family will love.
