This Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew is packed with tender beef, carrots, potatoes, and a rich broth that warms you up. It’s like a big hug in a bowl!
I love tossing everything in the pot and letting it cook all day. The best part? Coming home to the amazing smell! Plus, it’s perfect for chilly nights with friends or family.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: Use cuts like chuck or round for the best flavor and tenderness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, beef sirloin can work, but might not be as tender after cooking.
Red Wine: This adds depth, but you can skip it if preferred. Replace with an extra cup of beef broth, or try grape juice for a non-alcoholic option.
Vegetables: Carrots and potatoes are classics. Feel free to add parsnips or sweet potatoes for a sweet twist. Mushrooms also make a nice addition!
Herbs: Rosemary and thyme give great flavor. If you don’t have them, Italian seasoning can be a good substitute. Fresh herbs would work beautifully, just adjust the quantities.
How Do I Get My Beef Perfectly Tender?
One of the keys to a great beef stew is cooking the meat low and slow. This breaks down tough fibers, resulting in tender beef.
- Brown the meat well for flavor; don’t rush! Use medium-high heat and avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Cooking on low heat for 7-8 hours allows flavors to develop beautifully.
- Don’t skip the final step of adding peas. They add a pop of color and freshness to the stew.
Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional; replace with more beef broth if desired)
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 cup frozen peas (added at the end)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty stew will take about 15 minutes of prep time and then 7-8 hours of cooking on low (or 4-5 hours on high). It’s a great meal to set up in the morning and enjoy later when it’s ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
In a large bowl, season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. Add the flour, tossing the beef until each piece is evenly coated. This helps thicken the stew while it cooks!
2. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the coated beef cubes in batches (don’t crowd the pan) and brown them on all sides, which usually takes about 5 minutes. Once browned, transfer the beef to your crock pot.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, garlic, and celery. Sauté them for about 3 minutes until they are softened and fragrant. Transfer these to the crock pot with the beef.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
To the crock pot, add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, beef broth, and red wine (if using). Stir in the thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves to add fantastic flavor.
5. Cook the Stew:
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef and vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together nicely.
6. Add Frozen Peas:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the frozen peas. Don’t forget to remove the bay leaves before serving, as they don’t belong on your plate!
7. Taste and Adjust:
Give your stew a taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Taste testing is important!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your hearty stew with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve it hot with some crusty bread to soak up that delicious broth!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen beef, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. Thaw the beef in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Pat it dry before coating with flour to get a good sear!
What Can I Substitute for Red Wine?
If you’d prefer not to use red wine, you can simply replace it with an additional cup of beef broth. For a bit of acidity, consider adding a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to mimic the wine’s depth.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just make sure it’s completely cooled before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or green beans. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly, so add heartier veggies earlier to ensure everything cooks evenly.
