Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Slow Cooker Beef Stew is a hearty, comforting dish packed with tender beef, wholesome vegetables, and rich, savory flavor. It’s the perfect set-it-and-forget-it meal, making it ideal for busy weekdays or cozy weekends. With minimal prep and the magic of slow cooking, you’ll come home to a warm and satisfying dinner that tastes like it’s been simmering all day—because it has.

ingredients

Cooking Slow Cooker Beef Stew Made Simple

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

beef chuck roast (cut into chunks)carrotspotatoesceleryoniongarlaybeef brothtomato pasteWorcestershire sauceflourthymebay leafsaltblack pepperolive oil

directions

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and brown the beef chunks in batches. Transfer to the slow cooker.

In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion and garlic until fragrant, then add to the slow cooker.

Add chopped carrots, celery, and potatoes to the slow cooker.

In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, flour, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the meat and vegetables.

Add a bay leaf to the pot.

Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until beef is fork-tender and vegetables are soft.

Remove bay leaf before serving. Stir the stew and adjust seasoning if needed.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 7-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on highTotal time: 7 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes

Variations

Add mushrooms for extra depth and umami flavor.

Stir in frozen peas during the last 30 minutes for a pop of color and sweetness.

Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a slightly sweeter twist.

Swap the beef for lamb or chicken for a different flavor profile.

Add a splash of red wine to the broth mixture for richer flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until hot.For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I skip browning the beef?

Yes, but browning adds a deeper flavor and texture to the stew.

Can I use stew meat instead of chuck roast?

Yes, pre-cut stew meat is convenient and works just as well.

Do I need to peel the potatoes?

Peeling is optional. Leave skins on for rustic texture or peel for a smoother finish.

How do I thicken the stew?

The flour in the broth helps thicken it, but you can mash some of the potatoes or stir in a cornstarch slurry if needed.

Can I prep this the night before?

Yes, assemble all ingredients in the slow cooker insert and refrigerate overnight. Start cooking in the morning.

Can I cook this on the stovetop instead?

Yes, simmer on low heat for 2–3 hours, covered, until beef is tender.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken, and check your Worcestershire sauce for gluten.

What’s the best cut of beef for stew?

Chuck roast is ideal due to its marbling and tenderness after slow cooking.

Can I add herbs?

Fresh rosemary or parsley added at the end brightens the flavor.

What’s a good side dish?

Crusty bread or a simple green salad pairs perfectly with this stew.

Conclusion

Cooking Slow Cooker Beef Stew Made Simple is your ticket to a stress-free, delicious meal that warms you from the inside out. With easy prep and comforting flavors, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll turn to again and again. Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, it’s a slow-cooked classic that never goes out of style.