Crockpot Beef Stew: A Warm Family Dinner
When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing more comforting than a hearty bowl of beef stew. This crockpot beef stew recipe is not only easy to make but also perfect for busy families looking to enjoy a warm, delicious meal together. With tender chunks of beef, a medley of vegetables, and a rich, savory broth, this stew is sure to become a staple in your home.
Why Use a Crockpot?
A slow cooker, or crockpot, is a fantastic kitchen tool that allows you to prepare meals in advance without the fuss of constant monitoring. Simply add your ingredients, set the timer, and let it do the work for you. This makes it an ideal option for busy weeknights or days when you want to come home to a hot meal waiting for you.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
8 hours on low or 4 hours on high
Total Time:
8 hours 15 minutes
Servings:
6 servings
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 medium carrots, sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup frozen peas
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper, then brown them in batches until golden brown on all sides. This step adds depth of flavor to your stew.
- Transfer the browned beef to the crockpot. Add the carrots, potatoes, onion, and garlic on top of the beef.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Pour this mixture over the meat and vegetables in the crockpot.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
- About 30 minutes before the stew is done, add the frozen peas to the crockpot and stir gently.
- Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your crockpot beef stew with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or steamed greens for a balanced dinner. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers for lunch the next day!
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover beef stew, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it in portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Conclusion
This crockpot beef stew is the ultimate comfort food that brings family together. With its rich flavors and tender ingredients, it’s a meal that will warm your hearts and fill your bellies. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a warm family dinner any night of the week!
