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Crockpot Beef Stew Hearty and Comforting Recipe

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- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes - 4 carrots, sliced - 4 potatoes, diced - 1 large onion, chopped - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 4 cups beef broth - 2 tablespoons tomato paste - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon dried rosemary - Salt and pepper to taste - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for thickening) - Fresh parsley for garnish - 1 cup frozen peas When making this beef stew, you want to use high-quality beef chuck. This cut has enough fat to keep the stew rich and tasty. Choose fresh carrots and potatoes for the best flavor. The onions and garlic add a strong base to the stew. For liquids, beef broth is key. It gives the stew depth. Tomato paste adds a nice tang, and Worcestershire sauce brings umami. Herbs like thyme and rosemary enhance the stew's flavor. Use salt and pepper to adjust taste to your liking. Olive oil helps brown the beef, sealing in those wonderful juices. If you want a thicker stew, cornstarch is your friend. Just mix it with water and add it near the end. For color, add fresh peas and parsley when serving. {{ingredient_image_1}} - Sautéing the beef: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet. Season 2 pounds of beef cubes with salt and pepper. Brown the beef cubes for 5-7 minutes until they are dark on all sides. This step builds great flavor. - Transferring ingredients: Move the browned beef to your crockpot. In the same skillet, add 1 chopped onion and 3 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes. You want the onions to turn clear. Then, transfer them to the crockpot. - Combining ingredients: Add 4 sliced carrots, 4 diced potatoes, 4 cups of beef broth, 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, and 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce to the crockpot. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary. Stir everything well. - Cooking time options: Cover the crockpot. Set it to low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. Both options will make your stew taste great. - Adding peas and thickening: About 30 minutes before serving, mix in 1 cup of frozen peas. If you want a thicker stew, make a cornstarch slurry. Mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with a little water. Stir this into the stew during the last 10 minutes. - Final seasoning: Before serving, taste the stew. Adjust the salt and pepper as needed. This final touch makes it perfect for your table. Browning the beef: Searing beef is key for rich flavor. When you brown the meat, it creates a crust. This adds depth and taste. Don't skip this step. It makes the stew more delicious. Building flavors: Sautéing onions and garlic first is a game changer. It brings out their sweetness. Once you add them to the crockpot, they will enhance the stew's taste. Just cook them until the onions are clear. Recommended spices: To elevate your stew, consider adding bay leaves and paprika. Bay leaves add a subtle depth. Paprika brings a smoky flavor. These spices transform the dish from simple to spectacular. Garnishing: Presentation matters. Serve the stew in rustic bowls. Top it with fresh parsley for color. This makes the dish look appetizing and bright. You can also add a slice of crusty bread on the side. Meat alternatives: You can use different cuts of beef. Chuck is great, but you can try brisket or round too. Each cut gives a unique taste and texture. Vegetarian versions: Want a meatless stew? Replace the beef with hearty vegetables. Use mushrooms, beans, and lentils for protein. This way, you still get a filling and tasty meal. Pro Tips Sear the Meat: For a richer flavor, sear the beef cubes until browned before adding them to the crockpot. This caramelization enhances the overall taste of the stew. Add Fresh Herbs: For a burst of freshness, consider adding a few sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary during the last hour of cooking. Remove them before serving for a fragrant finish. Use Quality Broth: Using a high-quality beef broth can significantly improve the flavor of your stew. Homemade broth is preferable, but store-bought options work well too. Let it Rest: After cooking, let the stew sit for about 15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and meld together for a more delicious dish. {{image_2}} To store your leftover beef stew, let it cool first. This helps it keep its taste. Once cooled, place it in an airtight container. Use glass or plastic containers that seal well. Your stew will stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. For best results, eat it within this time to enjoy the full flavor. Freezing beef stew is a great way to save it for later. First, let the stew cool completely. Pour it into freezer-safe containers or bags. Leave some space at the top for the stew to expand. This keeps it from getting freezer burn. Your stew can last in the freezer for up to three months without losing its taste. When you want to eat it, take it out and thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat, pour it into a pot and warm it on low heat. Stir occasionally to make sure it heats evenly. You can also use the microwave for quick reheating. Just heat it in short bursts, stirring in between. Enjoy your warm, hearty stew! This recipe takes 15 minutes to prep. You can cook it in a crockpot for 8 hours on low or 4 hours on high. This long cooking time helps the flavors blend well. This hearty stew serves about 6 people. It’s perfect for family meals or gatherings. If you want to make more stew, just double the ingredients. Keep the same cooking times. This helps maintain the taste. For example, use 4 pounds of beef and 8 cups of broth. You can also add more veggies if you like. Just remember to stir well to mix the flavors. Yes, you can make this beef stew ahead of time. After it cools, store it in an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave. Stir well and ensure it reaches a safe temperature of 165°F. If the stew thickens while sitting, add a little water or broth when reheating. If you need a substitute for beef broth, you have options. Vegetable broth works well and adds a nice flavor. You can also use chicken broth for a lighter taste. In a pinch, water can replace broth, but the flavor will be less rich. Adding herbs and spices can help boost the taste if you use water. You can thicken your stew without cornstarch easily. One option is to use flour. Mix it with a little water to create a slurry and stir it in during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Mashed potatoes can also help thicken the stew. Just mash a few of the potatoes in the pot for a creamy texture. Another method is to blend a portion of the stew and mix it back in for a thicker consistency. This article covered how to make a hearty beef stew. We explored key ingredients, specific cooking steps, and tips for perfecting your dish. You learned about storage options, cooking times, and how to adjust the recipe. Remember, a good stew warms both the belly and heart. Try different meats or spices to make it your own. Enjoy your cooking and the warmth of a homemade meal.

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Craving something warm and hearty? This Crockpot Beef Stew is your answer! Packed with tender beef, fresh veggies, and rich flavors, it’s the perfect comfort food for chilly days. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a delicious meal waiting for you at the end of the day. Let’s dive into making this satisfying stew that warms both the heart and the soul!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Comforting flavors: This beef stew is the epitome of comfort food, with rich flavors that warm the soul.
  2. Effortless preparation: Just toss the ingredients in the crockpot and let it do the work while you go about your day.
  3. Versatile ingredients: You can easily customize the veggies or add your favorite herbs to make it your own.
  4. Perfect for leftovers: This stew tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes

– 4 carrots, sliced

– 4 potatoes, diced

– 1 large onion, chopped

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 4 cups beef broth

– 2 tablespoons tomato paste

– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Seasonings and Fats

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

Optional Ingredients

– 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for thickening)

– Fresh parsley for garnish

– 1 cup frozen peas

When making this beef stew, you want to use high-quality beef chuck. This cut has enough fat to keep the stew rich and tasty. Choose fresh carrots and potatoes for the best flavor. The onions and garlic add a strong base to the stew.

For liquids, beef broth is key. It gives the stew depth. Tomato paste adds a nice tang, and Worcestershire sauce brings umami.

Herbs like thyme and rosemary enhance the stew’s flavor. Use salt and pepper to adjust taste to your liking. Olive oil helps brown the beef, sealing in those wonderful juices.

If you want a thicker stew, cornstarch is your friend. Just mix it with water and add it near the end. For color, add fresh peas and parsley when serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

– Sautéing the beef: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet. Season 2 pounds of beef cubes with salt and pepper. Brown the beef cubes for 5-7 minutes until they are dark on all sides. This step builds great flavor.

– Transferring ingredients: Move the browned beef to your crockpot. In the same skillet, add 1 chopped onion and 3 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes. You want the onions to turn clear. Then, transfer them to the crockpot.

Cooking Steps

– Combining ingredients: Add 4 sliced carrots, 4 diced potatoes, 4 cups of beef broth, 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, and 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce to the crockpot. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary. Stir everything well.

– Cooking time options: Cover the crockpot. Set it to low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. Both options will make your stew taste great.

Finishing Touches

– Adding peas and thickening: About 30 minutes before serving, mix in 1 cup of frozen peas. If you want a thicker stew, make a cornstarch slurry. Mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with a little water. Stir this into the stew during the last 10 minutes.

– Final seasoning: Before serving, taste the stew. Adjust the salt and pepper as needed. This final touch makes it perfect for your table.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting Your Stew

Browning the beef: Searing beef is key for rich flavor. When you brown the meat, it creates a crust. This adds depth and taste. Don’t skip this step. It makes the stew more delicious.

Building flavors: Sautéing onions and garlic first is a game changer. It brings out their sweetness. Once you add them to the crockpot, they will enhance the stew’s taste. Just cook them until the onions are clear.

Enhancements

Recommended spices: To elevate your stew, consider adding bay leaves and paprika. Bay leaves add a subtle depth. Paprika brings a smoky flavor. These spices transform the dish from simple to spectacular.

Garnishing: Presentation matters. Serve the stew in rustic bowls. Top it with fresh parsley for color. This makes the dish look appetizing and bright. You can also add a slice of crusty bread on the side.

Cooking Variations

Meat alternatives: You can use different cuts of beef. Chuck is great, but you can try brisket or round too. Each cut gives a unique taste and texture.

Vegetarian versions: Want a meatless stew? Replace the beef with hearty vegetables. Use mushrooms, beans, and lentils for protein. This way, you still get a filling and tasty meal.

Pro Tips

  1. Sear the Meat: For a richer flavor, sear the beef cubes until browned before adding them to the crockpot. This caramelization enhances the overall taste of the stew.
  2. Add Fresh Herbs: For a burst of freshness, consider adding a few sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary during the last hour of cooking. Remove them before serving for a fragrant finish.
  3. Use Quality Broth: Using a high-quality beef broth can significantly improve the flavor of your stew. Homemade broth is preferable, but store-bought options work well too.
  4. Let it Rest: After cooking, let the stew sit for about 15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and meld together for a more delicious dish.

Storage Info

Refrigeration

To store your leftover beef stew, let it cool first. This helps it keep its taste. Once cooled, place it in an airtight container. Use glass or plastic containers that seal well. Your stew will stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. For best results, eat it within this time to enjoy the full flavor.

Freezing

Freezing beef stew is a great way to save it for later. First, let the stew cool completely. Pour it into freezer-safe containers or bags. Leave some space at the top for the stew to expand. This keeps it from getting freezer burn. Your stew can last in the freezer for up to three months without losing its taste.

When you want to eat it, take it out and thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat, pour it into a pot and warm it on low heat. Stir occasionally to make sure it heats evenly. You can also use the microwave for quick reheating. Just heat it in short bursts, stirring in between. Enjoy your warm, hearty stew!

Cooking Time Details

Total Time

This recipe takes 15 minutes to prep. You can cook it in a crockpot for 8 hours on low or 4 hours on high. This long cooking time helps the flavors blend well.

Serving Size

This hearty stew serves about 6 people. It’s perfect for family meals or gatherings.

Adjusting for Larger Batches

If you want to make more stew, just double the ingredients. Keep the same cooking times. This helps maintain the taste. For example, use 4 pounds of beef and 8 cups of broth. You can also add more veggies if you like. Just remember to stir well to mix the flavors.

FAQs

Can I make this beef stew ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this beef stew ahead of time. After it cools, store it in an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave. Stir well and ensure it reaches a safe temperature of 165°F. If the stew thickens while sitting, add a little water or broth when reheating.

What can I use instead of beef broth?

If you need a substitute for beef broth, you have options. Vegetable broth works well and adds a nice flavor. You can also use chicken broth for a lighter taste. In a pinch, water can replace broth, but the flavor will be less rich. Adding herbs and spices can help boost the taste if you use water.

How do I thicken the stew without cornstarch?

You can thicken your stew without cornstarch easily. One option is to use flour. Mix it with a little water to create a slurry and stir it in during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Mashed potatoes can also help thicken the stew. Just mash a few of the potatoes in the pot for a creamy texture. Another method is to blend a portion of the stew and mix it back in for a thicker consistency.

This article covered how to make a hearty beef stew. We explored key ingredients, specific cooking steps, and tips for perfecting your dish. You learned about storage options, cooking times, and how to adjust the recipe.

Remember, a good stew warms both the belly and heart. Try different meats or spices to make it your own. Enjoy your cooking and the warmth of a homemade mea

- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes - 4 carrots, sliced - 4 potatoes, diced - 1 large onion, chopped - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 4 cups beef broth - 2 tablespoons tomato paste - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon dried rosemary - Salt and pepper to taste - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for thickening) - Fresh parsley for garnish - 1 cup frozen peas When making this beef stew, you want to use high-quality beef chuck. This cut has enough fat to keep the stew rich and tasty. Choose fresh carrots and potatoes for the best flavor. The onions and garlic add a strong base to the stew. For liquids, beef broth is key. It gives the stew depth. Tomato paste adds a nice tang, and Worcestershire sauce brings umami. Herbs like thyme and rosemary enhance the stew's flavor. Use salt and pepper to adjust taste to your liking. Olive oil helps brown the beef, sealing in those wonderful juices. If you want a thicker stew, cornstarch is your friend. Just mix it with water and add it near the end. For color, add fresh peas and parsley when serving. {{ingredient_image_1}} - Sautéing the beef: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet. Season 2 pounds of beef cubes with salt and pepper. Brown the beef cubes for 5-7 minutes until they are dark on all sides. This step builds great flavor. - Transferring ingredients: Move the browned beef to your crockpot. In the same skillet, add 1 chopped onion and 3 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes. You want the onions to turn clear. Then, transfer them to the crockpot. - Combining ingredients: Add 4 sliced carrots, 4 diced potatoes, 4 cups of beef broth, 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, and 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce to the crockpot. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary. Stir everything well. - Cooking time options: Cover the crockpot. Set it to low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. Both options will make your stew taste great. - Adding peas and thickening: About 30 minutes before serving, mix in 1 cup of frozen peas. If you want a thicker stew, make a cornstarch slurry. Mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with a little water. Stir this into the stew during the last 10 minutes. - Final seasoning: Before serving, taste the stew. Adjust the salt and pepper as needed. This final touch makes it perfect for your table. Browning the beef: Searing beef is key for rich flavor. When you brown the meat, it creates a crust. This adds depth and taste. Don't skip this step. It makes the stew more delicious. Building flavors: Sautéing onions and garlic first is a game changer. It brings out their sweetness. Once you add them to the crockpot, they will enhance the stew's taste. Just cook them until the onions are clear. Recommended spices: To elevate your stew, consider adding bay leaves and paprika. Bay leaves add a subtle depth. Paprika brings a smoky flavor. These spices transform the dish from simple to spectacular. Garnishing: Presentation matters. Serve the stew in rustic bowls. Top it with fresh parsley for color. This makes the dish look appetizing and bright. You can also add a slice of crusty bread on the side. Meat alternatives: You can use different cuts of beef. Chuck is great, but you can try brisket or round too. Each cut gives a unique taste and texture. Vegetarian versions: Want a meatless stew? Replace the beef with hearty vegetables. Use mushrooms, beans, and lentils for protein. This way, you still get a filling and tasty meal. Pro Tips Sear the Meat: For a richer flavor, sear the beef cubes until browned before adding them to the crockpot. This caramelization enhances the overall taste of the stew. Add Fresh Herbs: For a burst of freshness, consider adding a few sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary during the last hour of cooking. Remove them before serving for a fragrant finish. Use Quality Broth: Using a high-quality beef broth can significantly improve the flavor of your stew. Homemade broth is preferable, but store-bought options work well too. Let it Rest: After cooking, let the stew sit for about 15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and meld together for a more delicious dish. {{image_2}} To store your leftover beef stew, let it cool first. This helps it keep its taste. Once cooled, place it in an airtight container. Use glass or plastic containers that seal well. Your stew will stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. For best results, eat it within this time to enjoy the full flavor. Freezing beef stew is a great way to save it for later. First, let the stew cool completely. Pour it into freezer-safe containers or bags. Leave some space at the top for the stew to expand. This keeps it from getting freezer burn. Your stew can last in the freezer for up to three months without losing its taste. When you want to eat it, take it out and thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat, pour it into a pot and warm it on low heat. Stir occasionally to make sure it heats evenly. You can also use the microwave for quick reheating. Just heat it in short bursts, stirring in between. Enjoy your warm, hearty stew! This recipe takes 15 minutes to prep. You can cook it in a crockpot for 8 hours on low or 4 hours on high. This long cooking time helps the flavors blend well. This hearty stew serves about 6 people. It’s perfect for family meals or gatherings. If you want to make more stew, just double the ingredients. Keep the same cooking times. This helps maintain the taste. For example, use 4 pounds of beef and 8 cups of broth. You can also add more veggies if you like. Just remember to stir well to mix the flavors. Yes, you can make this beef stew ahead of time. After it cools, store it in an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave. Stir well and ensure it reaches a safe temperature of 165°F. If the stew thickens while sitting, add a little water or broth when reheating. If you need a substitute for beef broth, you have options. Vegetable broth works well and adds a nice flavor. You can also use chicken broth for a lighter taste. In a pinch, water can replace broth, but the flavor will be less rich. Adding herbs and spices can help boost the taste if you use water. You can thicken your stew without cornstarch easily. One option is to use flour. Mix it with a little water to create a slurry and stir it in during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Mashed potatoes can also help thicken the stew. Just mash a few of the potatoes in the pot for a creamy texture. Another method is to blend a portion of the stew and mix it back in for a thicker consistency. This article covered how to make a hearty beef stew. We explored key ingredients, specific cooking steps, and tips for perfecting your dish. You learned about storage options, cooking times, and how to adjust the recipe. Remember, a good stew warms both the belly and heart. Try different meats or spices to make it your own. Enjoy your cooking and the warmth of a homemade meal.

Hearty Crockpot Beef Stew

A comforting and flavorful beef stew made in a crockpot, perfect for a hearty meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 4 units carrots, sliced
  • 4 units potatoes, diced
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
  • as needed fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper.
  • Brown the beef in the skillet for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally to sear all sides. Once browned, transfer the beef to the crockpot.
  • In the same skillet, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent.
  • Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic to the crockpot. Add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary to the pot. Stir well to combine.
  • Cover the crockpot and set it to low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, allowing the stew to simmer and the flavors to meld.
  • About 30 minutes before serving, add the frozen peas to the crockpot. If you prefer a thicker stew, mix cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry and stir it into the stew during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
  • Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
  • Once the cooking time is complete, ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.

Notes

Serve the stew in rustic bowls with a slice of crusty bread on the side for dipping, and sprinkle additional fresh parsley on top for a vibrant touch.
Keyword beef stew, comfort food, crockpot, hearty meal

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