Crockpot Beef Stew

Few things warm the soul quite like a big bowl of beef stew on a chilly evening. This Crockpot Beef Stew is the kind of meal that fills your home with comforting aromas and your belly with hearty goodness. It’s tender, flavorful, and oh-so-simple thanks to the magic of the slow cooker. With just a few pantry staples and fresh veggies, you’ll have a cozy dinner waiting for you at the end of the day—perfect for family gatherings, lazy Sundays, or weeknight comfort.

Recipe Info

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 medium carrots, sliced into chunks
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 2 bay leaves
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 2 tablespoons water (for slurry, if using cornstarch)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the meat. Pat beef dry with paper towels, then season generously with salt and pepper.
2. Load the crockpot. Add beef, carrots, potatoes, celery, onion, and garlic into the crockpot.
3. Add broth and seasonings. Pour in beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Stir gently to combine.
4. Set and cook. Cover and cook on Low for 8 hours or High for 4 hours, until beef is fork-tender and vegetables are soft.
5. Thicken (optional). If you prefer a thicker stew, mix cornstarch with water to form a slurry, then stir into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes.
6. Taste and serve. Remove bay leaves, adjust seasoning, and ladle into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Cooking Tip: Browning the beef in a skillet before adding it to the crockpot adds extra depth of flavor, but it’s optional for busy days.

Helpful Notes & Tips

• Storage: Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days and taste even better the next day. Freeze portions for up to 3 months.
• Thickening tip: For a naturally thicker stew, mash a few potato chunks into the broth instead of using cornstarch.
• Vegetable swap: Use sweet potatoes, parsnips, or turnips for a hearty twist.
• Low-sodium option: Use low-sodium beef broth and adjust salt at the end.

Recipe Variations

1. Chicken Stew: Swap the beef for boneless chicken thighs and use chicken broth instead.
2. Gluten-free version: Use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and skip flour-based thickeners.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with warm crusty bread or buttery biscuits for dipping.
• Serve alongside a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
• Top with a dollop of sour cream or sprinkle of shredded cheese for extra richness.

Conclusion

This Crockpot Beef Stew is everything cozy cooking should be—simple, hearty, and filled with love. It’s the kind of dish that invites everyone to gather around the table, share stories, and soak up the warmth of good food. Whether you’re meal-prepping or making a Sunday supper, this stew will become a comforting family favorite you’ll return to time and again.