Olivia Carter
This Best Ever Slow Cooker Beef Stew is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for those cold winter days. Made with tender beef, potatoes, carrots, and a flavorful broth, this stew is a family favorite that will warm you up from the inside out.
Using a slow cooker to make this stew is a game-changer. The low and slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together and the beef to become melt-in-your-mouth tender. Plus, it makes the preparation a breeze – simply toss all the ingredients in the slow cooker, set it, and forget it until dinner time!
This beef stew recipe is packed with wholesome ingredients that will keep you full and satisfied. The beef provides a good source of protein, while the potatoes and carrots add a satisfying texture and natural sweetness. The broth is rich and savory, thanks to a combination of beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and herbs and spices.
Whether you’re serving this slow cooker beef stew for a cozy family dinner or hosting a gathering with friends, it’s sure to be a hit. Serve it with a crusty bread or over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes for a complete and comforting meal. Once you try this Best Ever Slow Cooker Beef Stew, you’ll never want to make it any other way!
Ingredients for the Best Ever Slow Cooker Beef Stew
When it comes to making the best ever slow cooker beef stew, the right ingredients can make all the difference. This hearty and comforting dish starts with a foundation of tender beef, which is then complemented by an array of flavorful additions. Here are the essential ingredients you’ll need to create a stew that will have your taste buds singing.
- Beef: The star of the show, choose a cut of beef that is well-suited for slow cooking, such as chuck or stew meat. These cuts will become melt-in-your-mouth tender as they slow cook, soaking up all the delicious flavors of the stew.
- Vegetables: A medley of vegetables adds both texture and depth of flavor to the stew. Carrots, potatoes, onions, and celery are classic choices, but feel free to get creative with additional veggies like parsnips or turnips.
- Broth: The broth not only serves as the liquid base for the stew, but it also infuses the dish with savory goodness. Opt for a beef broth or stock for a rich and meaty flavor, or use vegetable broth for a lighter option.
- Herbs and Spices: A combination of herbs and spices is key to elevating the flavor of your beef stew. Common choices include bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, and garlic. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your own signature spice blend that suits your taste.
- Tomato Paste: Adding a dollop of tomato paste to the stew adds a touch of sweetness and acidity, which helps balance out the rich flavors. It also helps to thicken the sauce, giving the stew a luscious consistency.
- Flour: Coating the beef in flour before searing it helps to lock in the juices and creates a rich, caramelized crust. It also acts as a thickening agent for the stew, ensuring a hearty and velvety texture.
By combining these carefully selected ingredients, you can create a slow cooker beef stew that is truly the best ever. Prepare to be amazed by the tender beef, the vibrant vegetables, and the delicious flavors that meld together in every spoonful. Whether you’re serving it to family or friends, this stew is sure to impress and satisfy even the toughest of critics.
Instructions for making the Best Ever Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Preparing the Best Ever Slow Cooker Beef Stew is a simple and delicious way to enjoy a warm and hearty meal. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make this incredible dish:
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of beef stew meat, cubed
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 cup of frozen peas
- 4 cups of beef broth
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Start by browning the beef stew meat in a skillet over medium heat. This will help seal in the juices and add a depth of flavor to the stew.
- Once the beef is browned, transfer it to the slow cooker. Add in the diced onion, minced garlic, potatoes, carrots, celery, and frozen peas.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
- Stir everything together until well combined.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 8-10 hours or on high heat for 4-6 hours. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the meat to become tender.
- Once the cooking time is complete, give the stew a quick stir and taste for seasoning. Adjust with salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve the Best Ever Slow Cooker Beef Stew hot with crusty bread or over cooked rice for a comforting and satisfying meal.
With these simple instructions, you can easily prepare the Best Ever Slow Cooker Beef Stew and impress your family and friends with a delicious and hearty dish. Enjoy!
Tips and tricks for the perfect Best Ever Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Slow cooker beef stew is a comforting and hearty dish that is perfect for those cooler days. To make the perfect beef stew, there are a few tips and tricks that you can keep in mind.
Choose the right cut of beef: When making beef stew, it’s important to choose the right cut of meat. Look for cuts of beef that are well-marbled and have a good amount of fat. This will ensure that the meat becomes tender and flavorful as it slow cooks.
Brown the meat: Before adding the meat to the slow cooker, take the time to brown it in a skillet. This will help to develop a rich flavor and color in the stew. Brown the meat in small batches to ensure that it browns evenly.
Add layers of flavor: To take your beef stew to the next level, add layers of flavor by using ingredients like onions, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. These ingredients will enhance the taste of the stew and make it more delicious.
Cut the vegetables in uniform sizes: When adding vegetables to the stew, it’s important to cut them in uniform sizes. This will ensure that they cook evenly and are all done at the same time. Aim for bite-sized pieces.
Give it time: The key to a tender and flavorful beef stew is allowing it to cook slowly over a long period of time. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the meat to become tender. Set your slow cooker to low heat and let it simmer for at least 6-8 hours.
Season to taste: When the stew is done cooking, don’t forget to season it to taste. Add salt, pepper, and any other seasonings that you prefer. This will help to bring out the flavors and make the stew even more delicious.
By following these tips and tricks, you can create the perfect best ever slow cooker beef stew that is rich in flavor and melts in your mouth. The slow cooking method allows the flavors to develop and the meat to become tender, resulting in a hearty and satisfying dish that will warm you up on any chilly day.
Variations and Substitutions for the Best Ever Slow Cooker Beef Stew
While the Best Ever Slow Cooker Beef Stew recipe is already delicious, there are several variations and substitutions you can make to add your own personal touch or accommodate dietary restrictions. Here are a few ideas:
1. Protein Options:
- Instead of beef chuck roast, you can use other cuts of beef such as stew beef, sirloin, or even ground beef for a different texture and flavor.
- If you prefer a different type of meat, you can substitute the beef with chicken, pork, or lamb for a unique twist on traditional beef stew.
2. Vegetable Additions:
- Feel free to customize the vegetable mix in the stew. You can add additional vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or green beans for extra flavor and nutritional value.
- If you’re not a fan of a specific vegetable in the recipe, such as potatoes or carrots, you can omit or replace them with alternatives like sweet potatoes or butternut squash.
3. Seasoning Options:
- To enhance the flavor profile of the stew, you can experiment with different herbs and spices. Add some fresh rosemary, thyme, or bay leaves for a more aromatic taste.
- If you prefer a spicier stew, you can add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper to give it a slight kick.
These are just a few ideas to get you started, but feel free to get creative and make the Best Ever Slow Cooker Beef Stew uniquely your own. Remember to adjust cooking times and ingredient quantities accordingly when making substitutions or variations.
Serving and storing the Best Ever Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Once the Best Ever Slow Cooker Beef Stew is ready, it’s time to serve and enjoy this hearty and delicious meal. Here are some tips and suggestions on how to serve and store the stew:
Serving:
- Using a ladle, carefully transfer the beef stew into bowls or plates.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for added flavor and visual appeal.
- Serve the stew hot with your favorite crusty bread or mashed potatoes.
- For an extra touch, you can also pair it with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
- Enjoy the stew as a comforting dinner on a cold day or as a satisfying meal any time of the year.
Storing:
To store any leftovers, follow these steps:
- Allow the stew to cool completely at room temperature.
- Transfer the leftovers into an airtight container or individual meal prep containers.
- Label the container(s) with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheating in the microwave or stovetop is recommended.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the stew in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Remember to always use proper food safety practices when storing and reheating leftovers. Enjoy the Best Ever Slow Cooker Beef Stew for a comforting and flavorful meal!
10 Best Ever Slow Cooker Beef Stew The Recipe Critic
Kitchen Basics Organic Beef Stock, 32 oz (Pack of 12) | No Artificial Flavors and Gluten Free |
Features
| Part Number | HV1846419 |
| Release Date | 2016-08-05T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 32 Fl Oz (Pack of 12) |
| Publication Date | 2016-08-05T00:00:01Z |
- Twelve 32 oz cartons of Kitchen Basics Organic Beef Stock
- Crafted by simmering organic ingredients to add rich and complex, full-bodied flavor to all your homemade meals
- Classic, full-bodied flavors of beef, vegetables and herbs, slow-simmered for hours
- Gluten-free USDA organic beef stock
- Ideal bases for a wide variety of recipes calling for beef stock, like sauces, stew and lo mein
Pacific Foods Beef Broth, 32 oz (Pack of 12)
Features
| Part Number | 958819 |
| Model | 5440 |
| Color | Beef Broth |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Release Date | 2023-10-25T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 32 Ounce (Pack of 12) |
- Slow simmered broth captures the full meaty flavor of beef that is seasoned with garlic and sea salt
- Use as a base for soups, risottos and pasta dishes
- Fat-free and gluten-free, high quality ingredients
- Convenient resealable, twist open carton
- Refrigerate after opening and use within 7 to 10 days
- Keto Friendly
Goya Foods Beef Tripe Stew with Vegetables (Mondongo), 15 Ounce (Pack of 24)
Features
| Part Number | 2133 |
| Release Date | 2020-09-30T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 15 Fl Oz (Pack of 24) |
| Publication Date | 2012-06-19T00:00:01Z |
- Enjoy The Rich Fruity Flavor Of Goya's Grape Marmalade Jelly
- Go Big On Latin Flavor With Goya Mondongo, A Beef Tripe Stew With Vegetables
- Goya Beef Tripe Stew -Sopa De Mondongo Is A Soup Made From Diced Tripe (The Stomach Of A Cow Or Pig) Slow-Cooked With Vegetables Such As Bell Peppers, Onions, Carrots, Cabbage, Celery, Tomatoes, Cilantro (Coriander), Garlic Or Root Vegetables
- Item Package Dimension: 45.72cm L x 30.48cm W x 12.7cm H
Knorr Granulated Bouillon Beef 15.9 oz, 12 Count
Features
| Color | Beef |
| Release Date | 2020-03-05T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 12 Count (Pack of 1) |
- Adds that authentic Knorr flavor
- Made with natural flavors
- Fat Free & cholesterol free
- Enhance the flavor of soups, stews, tacos, ground beef, and any beef dishes
- Knorr Granulated beef flavor Bouillon blends flavors of beef, onion, parsley, and other spices
Mountain House Cooked Ground Beef | Freeze Dried Survival & Emergency Food | #10 Can | Gluten-Free
Features
| Part Number | 30227 |
| Model | 30227 |
| Warranty | 30-Year Shelf Life |
| Size | #10 Can |
- FREEZE DRIED MEAT - Made with all natural beef, it is an excellent source of protein that can be used creatively when making your favorite recipes like tacos, chili, or sloppy Joes.
- NO ARTIFICIAL ANYTHING - Made with no preservatives, artificial flavors or colors. Can contains 22 total servings. Great for feeding a family or a large group.
- QUICK PREP - Just add hot water to the can & eat in less than 10 minutes or scoop out individual servings and just add hot water. Power outage? No problem. Can be made with room temperature water, just double the hydration time.
- ANYTIME, ANYWHERE - Comforting, delicious food perfect for emergency food storage, survival, camping trips or RV expeditions.
FAQ
How long should I cook the Best Ever Slow Cooker Beef Stew?
You should cook the Best Ever Slow Cooker Beef Stew for 6-8 hours on low heat or 4-5 hours on high heat.
Can I store the Best Ever Slow Cooker Beef Stew?
Yes, you can store the Best Ever Slow Cooker Beef Stew. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
In conclusion, slow cooker beef stew is a delicious and convenient meal that can be enjoyed by anyone. By taking the time to sear the beef, add in the perfect combination of vegetables, herbs, and seasonings, and letting it cook low and slow in the slow cooker, you can create a dish that is bursting with rich flavors and tender meat. Furthermore, by utilizing a slow cooker, you can easily prepare this stew in advance and have it ready to enjoy whenever you are. Whether you are serving it for a special occasion or simply preparing a weeknight dinner, the best ever slow cooker beef stew is sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, fire up your slow cooker, and get ready to savor a hearty and satisfying meal that will warm your soul.
