why make this recipe
Comforting Crockpot Beef Stew is the perfect meal for any day of the week. It is warm, hearty, and full of flavors. This stew is great for busy days since you can prepare it in the morning and let it cook while you go about your day. The beef becomes tender and the vegetables soak up all the delicious flavors. It is a meal that brings families together and warms the heart.
how to make Comforting Crockpot Beef Stew
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Directions
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add beef cubes and brown on all sides. Transfer to the crockpot.
- In the same skillet, sauté onions and garlic until softened. Add to the crockpot.
- Add potatoes, carrots, broth, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to the crockpot.
- Stir to combine, cover, and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender.
- Serve warm and enjoy your cozy meal!
how to serve Comforting Crockpot Beef Stew
Serve this beef stew in bowls, making sure to give everyone a good mix of meat and veggies. You can add some fresh bread on the side to soak up the rich broth. This stew is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy meal with friends.
how to store Comforting Crockpot Beef Stew
If you have leftovers, let the stew cool down. Then, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Comforting Crockpot Beef Stew
- Brown the beef well for better flavor.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or green beans if you like.
- For a thicker stew, you can mix a little cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the stew before the last hour of cooking.
variation
You can make a lighter version by using chicken or turkey instead of beef. Just adjust the cooking time as poultry will cook faster. You can also use vegetable broth and add more veggies for a vegetarian option.
FAQs
Can I use frozen beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen beef, but make sure to thaw it before cooking for better results.
What should I do if my stew is too thick?
If your stew is too thick, you can add a little more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Can I cook this stew overnight?
It’s not recommended to cook it overnight on low. For long cooking times, it’s better to use the timer function if your crockpot has one, or cook it during the day when you can monitor it.