Ah, Crockpot Beef Stew! Just saying the name brings back warm, fuzzy memories of chilly evenings curled up on the couch with a hearty bowl of this delicious stew. I remember the first time I tried making it; I was experimenting in the kitchen and wanted something cozy that would fill up my home with amazing aromas. Let me tell you, I was not disappointed! The rich, savory flavors meld perfectly, and when you return from a long day to find dinner practically making itself, there’s just something magical about it.
This stew is one of those meals that feels like a warm hug on a cold day. Not only is it super easy to throw together, but it also offers a lot of flexibility, meaning you can customize it just the way you like. Plus, the best part? You can make it in a Crockpot, which frees up your time while delivering a mouth-watering meal by dinner!
What’s in Crockpot Beef Stew?
Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is perfect for stews because it becomes incredibly tender after slow cooking. I usually opt for grass-fed beef if it’s available; it adds a richer flavor.
Carrots: These bring natural sweetness and color to the stew. I love using those rainbow carrots for an extra pop of color and fun!
Potatoes: I’m a fan of Yukon Gold for their creamy texture, but russet potatoes will work too. They soak up all that delicious broth!
Onion: A must-have for flavor! I typically use yellow onions as they have a versatile flavor that sweetens as they cook.
Garlic: Because, really—who doesn’t love garlic? It adds depth and aroma that’s unbeatable.
Beef Broth: This is the foundation of our stew’s flavor. I prefer low-sodium broth so I can control the saltiness.
Tomato Paste: A little goes a long way in enhancing the flavor. Just be sure to get a good quality for the best results.
Thyme and Bay Leaves: These herbs infuse the stew with warmth and earthiness. They’re like the perfect spice companions for our beef!
Salt and Pepper: Can’t forget these for seasoning! A little salt helps bring out the flavors of all the ingredients.
Is Crockpot Beef Stew Good for You?
Let’s talk about the health benefits. This stew is packed with nutritious veggies and wholesome beef, making it a well-rounded meal.
Beef Chuck Roast: Rich in protein and iron, it can help keep you full and satisfied, which is perfect for energy on chilly days.
Carrots: These bright orange beauties are not just beautiful to look at; they are loaded with beta-carotene, which is excellent for your eyes.
Potatoes: A good source of carbohydrates, they are wonderful for providing energy. Plus, they offer potassium, which is important for heart health.
However, keep in mind that while this dish is hearty and filling, it can also be high in sodium if you use store-bought broth and seasonings. So, if you’re watching your salt intake, be sure to go for those low-sodium options and monitor your salt as you cook!
Ingredients List
This recipe serves about 6 people.
– 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 4 medium carrots, sliced
– 4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, diced
– 1 large yellow onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 2 bay leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Crockpot Beef Stew?
1. Start by preparing your ingredients. Cut the beef into 1-inch pieces, slice the carrots, dice the potatoes, and chop the onion and garlic.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sear the beef until browned on all sides. This step adds great flavor, but it’s okay if you skip it for convenience.
3. Place the browned beef in your Crockpot, followed by the carrots, potatoes, onion, and garlic.
4. In a bowl, combine the beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the beef and vegetables.
5. Cover and cook on low for about 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
6. When the stew is ready, remove the bay leaves, taste and adjust seasoning if needed, and get ready to dig in!
Serving Suggestions for the Heartiest Experience
This dish is wonderful on its own, but here are a few of my favorite ways to elevate it:
– Serve it with crusty bread for dipping; there’s nothing quite like sopping up that savory broth!
– You can sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a fresh, vibrant touch.
– If you’re feeling adventurous, add a splash of red wine to the broth for added depth.
Making a batch of this Crockpot Beef Stew is such a rewarding experience. It’s a meal that brings happiness and warmth to any gathering, or even just a night at home wrapped in a cozy blanket. I encourage you to give it a try, and honestly, I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Share your experience or tweak it to make it your own. Happy cooking!