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A steaming bowl of classic crockpot beef stew with tender chunks of beef and vegetables.

Classic Crockpot Beef Stew

This classic crockpot beef stew recipe delivers tender beef and hearty vegetables in a rich, savory broth, perfect for a comforting meal with minimal effort.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 20 minutes
Servings 6 people
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • Large Skillet
  • Paper Towels

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2 pounds beef stew meat (chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 large carrots, peeled and cut into thick coins or chunks
  • 2 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1.5-inch pieces
  • 4 cups beef broth (low sodium)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
  • 2 tablespoons cold water (optional, for cornstarch slurry)

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Pat the beef cubes dry and season generously with salt and pepper.
  • Sear the beef in batches in a skillet with olive oil until browned, then transfer to the slow cooker.
  • Sauté the diced onions and minced garlic in the same skillet, then add them to the slow cooker.
  • Add carrots, potatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaf to the slow cooker and stir to combine.
  • Cook on LOW for 7-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours until beef is tender.
  • To thicken, whisk cornstarch and cold water, then stir into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
  • Remove the bay leaf before serving, then taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Notes

For best flavor, consider searing the beef the night before and refrigerating it in the slow cooker insert. This meal is fantastic for meal prepping, as it reheats beautifully and the flavors deepen with time. Serve with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a complete meal.