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Overhead view of comforting crockpot beef stew ready to eat

Comforting Crockpot Beef Stew: 3 Easy Steps!

A hearty and flavorful beef stew made effortlessly in your slow cooker, perfect for a comforting meal with minimal fuss.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 20 minutes
Servings 6 people
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • slow cooker
  • whisk

Ingredients
  

Stew

  • 2 lbs beef stew meat
  • 1 lb carrots peeled and chopped
  • 1.5 lbs potatoes peeled and diced
  • 2 celery stalks chopped
  • 1 onion chopped
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 2 bay leaves

For Thickening (Optional)

  • 2 tbsp cornstarch
  • 2 tbsp cold water

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Combine beef, carrots, potatoes, celery, onion, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaves in the slow cooker.
  • Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until beef is tender.

Thickening (Optional)

  • If desired, create a slurry by whisking cornstarch and cold water, then stir into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Serving

  • Remove bay leaves before serving and enjoy your comforting beef stew warm.

Notes

For extra flavor, you can sear the beef stew meat in a hot pan with a little oil before adding it to the slow cooker. This will create a nice crust and deepen the flavor of the stew. Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or peas during the last hour of cooking.