Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe for Ultimate Comfort Food

There’s something undeniably cozy about a bubbling pot of stew simmering away in your kitchen—especially when that stew is a Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe. The warm, savory aroma wafting through your home can instantly whisk you back to simpler times, perhaps your grandmother’s kitchen, filled with laughter and love over shared meals.

Imagine tender chunks of beef, perfectly cooked with a medley of vegetables, all steeped in a rich, flavorful broth that tells a story with every bite. Whether it’s a chilly winter evening or a weekend gathering with friends, this stew is your go-to dish for comfort and satisfaction.

Ingredients for Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe:

2 ½ pounds stew meat – Choose well-marbled cuts like chuck for the best flavor and tenderness as they cook down.

½ teaspoon black pepper – This adds a gentle kick; feel free to adjust to your taste.

½ teaspoon garlic salt – Enhances the meat with that essential garlic flavor.

½ teaspoon celery salt – For a unique, savory dimension that lifts the entire dish.

1/4 cup flour – This helps in browning the meat and thickening the stew effectively.

3-6 tablespoons olive oil – Use a good quality olive oil for sautéing the meat and enhancing flavors.

3 tablespoons cold butter, divided – This will enrich the stew’s finish and give it that professional touch.

2 cups yellow onions, diced – Sweet onions add depth; aim for evenly diced pieces for uniform cooking.

4 cloves garlic, minced – Always use fresh garlic if possible; the aroma is unbeatable.

1 cup cabernet sauvignon or merlot – A splash of red wine brings richness and a complex note to the broth.

4 cups beef broth – Essential for the stew’s foundation; opt for low-sodium if watching salt intake.

2 beef bouillon cubes – These intensify the beef flavor further; dissolve in your broth for maximum impact.

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce – Adds a tangy, umami kick that elevates the dish.

3 tablespoons tomato paste – This adds both color and a richness that makes the broth unforgettable.

5 medium carrots, cut into 1-inch chunks – Carrots add sweetness and color; slice them to matching sizes for even cooking.

1 lb. baby Yukon gold potatoes, halved or quartered – These creamy potatoes hold their shape well; no need to peel them!

2 bay leaves – Just like a hug for the stew, they impart a subtle aroma that enhances flavors.

1 sprig rosemary – A fresh herb adds a fragrant note—tie it with string for easy removal later.

1 cup frozen peas – Add these during the final minutes for a pop of color and sweetness.

1/4 cup cold water (optional) – Use this if thickening is needed towards the end of cooking.

3 tablespoons corn starch (optional) – Mix with water to thicken if desired, creating a satisfying texture.

2-3 drops Gravy Master (optional) – A dash at the end will deepen the color and flavor if you’re feeling fancy.

How to Make Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe:

Step 1: Prepare the Meat
Cut the stew meat into 1-inch cubes, being sure to discard any large chunks of fat. Pat them dry with paper towels to help them brown better.

Step 2: Season and Flour the Meat
In a bowl, toss the seasoned beef with black pepper, garlic salt, and celery salt. Sprinkle the flour over the meat and toss it again to coat each piece well.

Step 3: Brown the Meat
Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Sear the meat on all sides for about 45 seconds before transferring it to the slow cooker.

Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics
Reduce the heat to medium and add 1 tablespoon of cold butter to the skillet. Add the diced onions and sauté for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Pour in a splash of wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any delicious brown bits, then transfer this mixture to the slow cooker.

Step 5: Combine All Ingredients
Add the beef broth, bouillon cubes, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, carrots, potatoes, bay leaves, and rosemary to the slow cooker. Give it all a good stir to mix everything together.

Step 6: Let It Cook
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 7 ½ to 8 hours or high for 3½ to 4 hours. The vegetables should be tender, and the beef fork-tender.

Add the frozen peas during the last 15 minutes of cooking time. Before serving, remove the bay leaves and rosemary stem.

For thicker stew, you can mix ¼ cup cold water with 3 tablespoons cornstarch, then stir it into the stew gradually. Turn off the heat and swirl in the remaining 2 tablespoons of cold butter for that rich, creamy finish. If feeling adventurous, a few drops of Gravy Master can make your stew even more visually enticing.

So gather your loved ones, pour them a glass of wine, and enjoy this cozy, Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe that feels like home with every savory bite. Serve hot with crusty bread, and watch everyone come back for seconds!

Perfecting Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe Cooking Process

To make this Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe a success, start by searing the meat first to lock in the flavors. Next, sauté the onions and garlic for extra depth before adding everything to the slow cooker for a cozy low-and-slow simmer.

Add Your Touch to Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe

Don’t hesitate to customize your Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe! Try swapping in different root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes, or add a dash of paprika for a warm, smoky flavor that brings a twist to this classic dish.

Storing & Reheating Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe

To store your Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When reheating, do so slowly on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to maintain the stew’s rich consistency.

There was a rainy Sunday afternoon when I decided to whip up this Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew for some friends. The cozy smell filled the house, and their delighted expressions at the first taste reminded me why I love cooking for others.

FAQs About Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe

What is Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe?

The Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe is a comforting dish made with tender chunks of beef, vegetables, and rich flavors simmered to perfection in a slow cooker. This recipe showcases a delightful mix of ingredients like carrots, potatoes, and aromatic herbs, making it a perfect meal for chilly days. It’s not only simple to prepare but also ideal for meal prepping or serving at family gatherings. You’ll love how this recipe transforms humble ingredients into a soul-warming feast that pairs beautifully with crusty bread.

What makes this stew recipe special?

This Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe stands out due to its layers of flavor, achieved through browning the meat and sautéing the vegetables before slow cooking. It utilizes quality ingredients like Cabernet Sauvignon and savory beef broth, ensuring a rich, robust taste that deepens as it cooks. The slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully over several hours, resulting in an unforgettable meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. The use of fresh herbs adds a touch of sophistication, making it worthy of gatherings or cozy nights in.

Can I customize the Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe?

Absolutely! One of the best aspects of the Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe is its versatility. Feel free to swap in different root vegetables such as parsnips or sweet potatoes for variety. You can also add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a dash of paprika for an extra kick of flavor. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, consider substituting potatoes with cauliflower. Personalize this stew to your taste buds, ensuring it becomes your ultimate comfort food!

How do I store and reheat Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew?

To store your Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew, let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container and refrigerating. It can safely be stored in the fridge for up to four days or frozen for up to three months. When reheating, warm it slowly on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to maintain its rich consistency. The flavors develop even more as it sits, making the leftovers just as delightful as the first serving!

Conclusion for Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe

In conclusion, the Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe promises a delicious, comforting meal that the whole family will adore. With its rich flavors, tender meat, and colorful vegetables, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing for a busy week or a cozy gathering, this stew will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. Give it a try, and enjoy the delightful aromas that fill your kitchen!

Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe for Ultimate Comfort Food

This Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe is a comforting dish filled with tender beef and vegetables, perfect for cozy meals.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 4 hours hrs

Total Time 4 hours hrs 20 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner Recipes

Cuisine: American

Calories: 507

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

• 2.5 pounds stew meat
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon garlic salt
• 0.5 teaspoon celery salt
• 0.25 cup flour
• 3-6 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons cold butter divided
• 2 cups yellow onions diced
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 1 cup cabernet sauvignon or merlot
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 cubes beef bouillon
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 5 medium carrots cut into 1-inch chunks
• 1 pound baby Yukon gold potatoes halved or quartered
• 2 leaves bay leaves
• 1 sprig rosemary
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 0.25 cup cold water optional
• 3 tablespoons corn starch optional
• 2-3 drops Gravy Master optional

Equipment

• slow cooker
• skillet

Method

 

1. Cut meat into 1-inch cubes, discard any large pieces of fat.
2. Sprinkle beef with black pepper, garlic salt, and celery salt. Toss to coat. Sprinkle flour over the meat and toss again.
3. Heat 3 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meat in batches, don’t overcrowd the pan. Brown on each side for 45 seconds. Transfer to slow cooker.
4. Reduce heat to medium and melt 1 tablespoon butter. Add onions and cook for 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add a splash of wine and deglaze the pan, loosening up any brown remnants. Transfer the onions/garlic mixture to the slow cooker.
5. Add all remaining ingredients except for the peas, corn starch mixture, and 2 tablespoons of cold butter.
6. Cook on low for 7 ½ to 8 hours or high for 3½ to 4 hours, until the vegetables are softened and the potatoes are fork tender.
7. Add the peas during the last 15 minutes of cooking. Remove the bay leaves and rosemary stem.
8. Optional: To thicken, combine ¼ cup cold water with 3 tablespoons of cornstarch. Slowly add it to the stew, stirring to incorporate.
9. Turn off the heat. Swirl in 2 tablespoons of cold butter for a smooth finish.
10. Optional: Add 3 drops of Gravy Master for an even darker color.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 507kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 49gFat: 18gSodium: 1035mgFiber: 5gSugar: 7g

Notes

This stew is perfect for cozy family dinners and can be customized with various vegetables or spices to suit your taste.

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