Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe for Ultimate Comfort Food

There’s something downright magical about a Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe that makes it feel like a warm embrace on a chilly day. As the savory aroma fills your kitchen, it whispers promises of tender meat, flavorful vegetables, and an unforgettable meal that lingers in your heart long after the last bite. Whether you’re cozied up on the couch after a long day or celebrating with family on a Sunday evening, this stew is the ultimate comfort food that transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary.

Imagine gathering around the table, your loved ones smiling as they dig into steaming bowls of this hearty concoction. The rich flavors of wine, garlic, and herbs blend together to create a symphony of taste that dances on your palate. Each spoonful is filled with tender chunks of beef, vibrant carrots, and creamy Yukon gold potatoes. If you’re searching for a recipe that feels like home, you’ve just struck gold with this Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe!

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 – Select well-marbled beef for tender bites that melt in your mouth.

½ teaspoon black pepper – Freshly cracked for an extra kick of flavor.

½ teaspoon garlic salt – Adds a savory depth to the stew.

½ teaspoon celery salt – Enhances the overall taste profile with a hint of freshness.

¼ cup flour – Helps thicken the stew while creating a lovely crust when browning the meat.

3-6 tablespoons olive oil – Opt for high-quality olive oil for rich flavor during browning.

3 tablespoons cold butter, divided – Adds a velvety finish to the stew.

2 cups yellow onions, diced – Sweetness from onions complements the other ingredients beautifully.

4 cloves garlic, minced – A must-have for that aromatic touch we all love.

1 cup cabernet sauvignon or merlot – Choose a good-quality red wine to enhance depth and flavor.

4 cups beef broth – The base of your stew, so hearty and flavorful is key here!

2 beef bouillon cubes – Provides additional layers of savory goodness.

2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce – A touch of umami for balance and depth.

3 tablespoons tomato paste – Adds richness and color to the stew.

5 medium carrots, cut into 1-inch chunks – Sweetness and texture add a whole new layer.

1 lb. baby Yukon gold potatoes, halved or quartered – Creamy and buttery, these potatoes soak up all the delicious flavors.

2 bay leaves – For an aromatic hint that rounds out the dish beautifully.

1 sprig rosemary – Fresh rosemary brings a delightful fragrant touch.

1 cup frozen peas – Added just at the end for a pop of color and sweetness.

¼ cup cold water – For an optional thickening technique.

3 tablespoons cornstarch (optional) – For a glossy finish when desired.

2-3 drops Gravy Master (optional) – For a darker, richer color if you 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 and trim away any large pieces of fat. Season the meat with black pepper, garlic salt, and celery salt. Toss well, then sprinkle with flour, tossing again to coat.

Step 2: Brown the Meat
Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the meat in batches for about 45 seconds on each side until golden. Transfer the browned meat to your slow cooker.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Reduce the skillet heat to medium and melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until they’re soft. Toss in the garlic, cooking for just 1 minute before deglazing the skillet with a splash of red wine. Transfer this mixture to the slow cooker.

Step 4: Assemble the Stew
Add all remaining ingredients to the slow cooker, except the peas, cornstarch mixture, and the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir well.

Step 5: Slow Cook the Stew
Cover and cook on low for 7 ½ to 8 hours or high for 3½ to 4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are fork-tender and the vegetables are nicely softened.

Step 6: Final Touches
Add the frozen peas in the last 15 minutes of cooking. Before serving, remove the bay leaves and rosemary stem. If you prefer a thicker stew, mix ¼ cup cold water with 3 tablespoons cornstarch and stir this into the stew. Finish off by adding the last 2 tablespoons of cold butter to achieve a smooth, luxurious finish.

Now that your Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew is ready, dishing it up is the best part. Pour yourself a warm bowl, grab a spoon, and enjoy every comforting bite. This is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that transports you right to your favorite family gathering, and it’s key to making memories that last!

Perfecting Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe Cooking Process

The best way to tackle this Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe is by first searing your meat for maximum flavor. While that’s happening, chop your veggies so they’re ready to add when the meat makes its transition to the slow cooker.

Add Your Touch to Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe

Feel free to customize this Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe by swapping out vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Adding spices like smoked paprika or even a dash of chili powder can elevate the flavor profile.

Storing & Reheating Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe

To store your Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding broth if it thickens too much.

Making this Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe reminds me of cozy evenings with friends gathered around the table, sharing laughter and stories over warm bowls of stew. It’s those moments that turn cooking into cherished memories.

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 that features tender chunks of beef simmered to perfection with a medley of vegetables and savory seasonings. It stands out for its rich flavors and ease of preparation, as the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting. This recipe is perfect for cozy gatherings or a simple family dinner, providing both satisfaction and nourishment in every warm bowl.

How long does it take to prepare Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe?

Preparing the Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe involves about 20 minutes of active prep time followed by 7.5 to 8 hours of slow cooking on low heat, or about 3.5 to 4 hours on high. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a stew that tastes like it has been brewing all day. Ideal for busy schedules, set it and forget it while you attend to other tasks.

Can I customize the Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe?

Absolutely! The Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe is easily customizable. You can swap vegetables based on your preference or what’s in season, such as parsnips or green beans. Additionally, consider adding spices like smoked paprika, thyme, or even chili powder for a kick. Adjust these elements to suit your taste and make the dish your own.

What should I serve with Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe?

Pairing is essential for an enjoyable meal. The Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe goes wonderfully with crusty bread or buttery dinner rolls, perfect for sopping up the delicious broth. A fresh green salad can add a nice contrast, lightening the meal. For a heartier approach, consider serving it over mashed potatoes or rice for an even more comforting dish.

Conclusion for Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe

The Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe stands as a timeless classic that combines simplicity with rich, comforting flavors. With its ease of preparation and adaptability, it is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests or simply enjoy a family meal, this dish ensures satisfaction and warmth in every bite. Embrace the joys of slow-cooked goodness with this delightful recipe!

Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe

This Hearty Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender beef and savory vegetables.

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
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch optional
• 2-3 drops Gravy Master optional

Equipment

• slow cooker
• skillet
• cutting board
• knife

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, browning 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 to deglaze the pan and transfer to the slow cooker.
5. Add all remaining ingredients except for the peas, cornstarch 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 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 a darker color.

Nutrition

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

Notes

This stew improves in flavor the next day and can be frozen for future meals.

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