Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew Recipe – Easy, Hearty, & Perfect for Winter!

Table of Contents: Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew

Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew

When the temperature drops and you’re craving something warm and hearty, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew to hit the spot. This slow cooker comfort food is the perfect blend of tender beef, hearty vegetables, and rich, savory broth. Whether you’re feeding a crowd on a chilly winter night or simplifying your weeknight dinner routine, this simple beef and vegetable stew will become a family favorite.

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Introduction: Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew

There’s something magical about coming home to the aroma of a hearty winter stew simmering in your slow cooker. This Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew is more than just a meal—it’s a hug in a bowl. Made with tender chuck roast, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful broth, this recipe is the embodiment of slow cooker comfort food.

What makes this stew stand out is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can create a dish that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours. Perfect for busy weeknights, cozy family dinners, or even casual holiday gatherings, this simple beef and vegetable stew is versatile and foolproof. Plus, the slow cooker does most of the work for you, freeing up your time for more important things—like savoring every bite.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is designed to be approachable and satisfying. So grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into the world of hearty winter stews.

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Alternate Names & Variations

This recipe goes by many names, depending on where you live or what you’re craving. You might hear it called Slow Cooker Beef and Vegetable Stew, Simple Crock Pot Stew, or even Old-Fashioned Beef Stew. No matter what you call it, the result is the same: a comforting, nourishing meal that warms you from the inside out.

For those looking to mix things up, try adding a splash of red wine to the broth for depth of flavor, or swap out the potatoes for parsnips or turnips. You can also experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano.

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Ingredients: Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew

Here’s what you’ll need to make this slow cooker comfort food:

• – 1½–2 lbs chuck roast, trimmed – or stew meat
• – 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• – 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
• – 1 medium onion – diced
• – 2 cloves garlic – minced or crushed
• – 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
• – 3 oz tomato paste
• – ½ lb red or Yukon Gold potatoes – cut into 1-inch chunks
• – 2 carrots – peeled, cut into ⅓-inch medallions
• – ½ cup frozen peas
• – 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• – ½ teaspoon salt
• – ¼ teaspoon pepper
• – 1 bay leaf – Optional
• – ¼ teaspoon dried thyme – Optional

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef: Trim any excess fat from the chuck roast and cut it into 1-inch cubes. Toss the beef with 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour until evenly coated.

2. Brown the Beef: Heat 2 teaspoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches and sear until browned on all sides, about 2–3 minutes per side. Transfer the beef to the slow cooker.

3. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.

4. Combine Ingredients: Add the sautéed onions and garlic to the slow cooker. Stir in the beef broth, tomato paste, soy sauce, salt, pepper, bay leaf, and dried thyme.

5. Add Vegetables: Place the potatoes and carrots on top of the beef mixture.

6. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 7–8 hours or on high for 4–5 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.

7. Finish: Stir in the frozen peas during the last 15 minutes of cooking.

8. Serve: Remove the bay leaf and ladle the stew into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Chef’s Tip: For a thicker gravy, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

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Recipe Card Block

This Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew takes just 20 minutes to prep and cooks in your slow cooker for 7–8 hours on low or 4–5 hours on high. It serves 4–6 people and is packed with approximately 350 calories per serving.

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Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips

This recipe shines because of its simplicity and depth of flavor. The combination of chuck roast and fresh vegetables creates a hearty winter stew that’s both nutritious and satisfying. The slow cooking process tenderizes the beef and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

For best results, don’t skip browning the beef—it adds a rich, caramelized flavor to the stew. And if you’re short on time, you can use pre-cut stew meat instead of chuck roast.

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Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, let the stew cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore the consistency.

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People Also Ask: Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew

What is the best cut of beef for stew?

Chuck roast is the best cut for stew because it’s well-marbled and becomes incredibly tender when slow-cooked. You can also use stew meat, but be sure to trim any excess fat.

Do I have to brown the beef before putting it in the slow cooker?

While it’s not mandatory, browning the beef adds a depth of flavor that enhances the overall dish. Skipping this step will still result in a tasty stew, but browning is recommended for the best results.

How do you make beef stew gravy thicker?

To thicken the gravy, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir this slurry into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

What vegetables can I add to beef stew?

Feel free to customize your stew with vegetables like parsnips, celery, green beans, or mushrooms. Just ensure they’re cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.

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Conclusion: Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew

This Easy Crock Pot Beef Stew is the epitome of slow cooker comfort food. It’s simple, hearty, and perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and see why it’s a favorite among home cooks everywhere. Don’t forget to share your results or leave a comment below—we’d love to hear how it turned out!

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Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	350
Protein	28g
Carbohydrates	22g
Fat	16g