Olivia Carter
If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, look no further than this slow cooker beef stew recipe. With rich flavors and tender beef, it’s sure to become a family favorite. And the best part? This recipe uses McCormick spices to add a delicious, homemade taste without the hassle.
One of the reasons this beef stew recipe stands out is because of the slow cooking process. By cooking the beef low and slow, it becomes incredibly tender and flavorful. And with McCormick spices like thyme and paprika, each bite is packed with deliciousness. Plus, the slow cooker does all the work for you, making this recipe perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
The key to making the best slow cooker beef stew is to sear the meat before adding it to the slow cooker. This step adds a rich caramelized flavor to the stew that you won’t get if you skip it. And with McCormick spices like garlic powder and onion powder, the beef is perfectly seasoned. Add in some chopped vegetables, such as potatoes, carrots, and celery, and you have a hearty, nutritious meal that’s perfect for any time of year.
Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe: The Ultimate Guide
If you’re looking for a hearty and comforting meal that is perfect for those colder months, then look no further than a slow cooker beef stew. This ultimate guide will provide you with all the information you need to make the best slow cooker beef stew recipe ever.
Firstly, let’s talk about the ingredients. To make a delicious beef stew, you will need tender beef chunks, such as chuck or stewing beef, along with a medley of vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and onions. Don’t forget to season your stew with herbs and spices, such as thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves, to enhance the flavors.
Now, let’s move on to the cooking process. Using a slow cooker is the key to achieving a tender and flavorful beef stew. Simply combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker, set the timer, and let it cook low and slow for several hours. This slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld together and results in a melt-in-your-mouth stew.
Once your beef stew is ready, you can serve it with some crusty bread or over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes for a complete meal. The leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated for future meals, making it a convenient and time-saving option.
In conclusion, a slow cooker beef stew is a perfect dish for those seeking comfort and warmth during the colder seasons. By following this ultimate guide, you’ll be able to create the best slow cooker beef stew recipe ever. So, gather your ingredients, set up your slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal.
Why Slow Cooker Beef Stew is the Best
If you’re looking for a hearty and comforting meal, slow cooker beef stew is the perfect choice. This delicious dish is packed full of tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and a rich broth that is cooked low and slow to perfection. There are several reasons why slow cooker beef stew is considered the best:
1. Tender and Juicy Beef
One of the main reasons why slow cooker beef stew is the best is because the beef turns out incredibly tender and juicy. The long cooking process allows the beef to slowly break down and become fork-tender, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Each bite of beef is infused with all the delicious flavors of the stew, making it a truly satisfying experience.
2. Bursting with Flavors
Another reason why slow cooker beef stew is the best is because it is bursting with flavors. The combination of herbs, spices, and vegetables create a robust and savory taste that will leave your taste buds wanting more. The slow cooking process allows all the ingredients to meld together, creating a harmonious and delicious blend of flavors.
3. Easy and Convenient
Slow cooker beef stew is not only delicious, but it is also easy and convenient to make. Simply throw all the ingredients into the slow cooker in the morning, and let it cook on low heat all day. When you come home, you’ll be greeted with the amazing aroma of a home-cooked meal. It’s the perfect option for those busy days when you don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen.
In conclusion, slow cooker beef stew is the best choice for a comforting and delicious meal. With tender and juicy beef, bursting flavors, and the convenience of a slow cooker, it’s hard to beat. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a bowl of warm and satisfying beef stew.
Ingredients you’ll need for the Perfect Beef Stew
Beef stew is a classic dish that is loved by many for its hearty and comforting flavors. To make the perfect beef stew, you’ll need a variety of ingredients that come together to create a delicious and satisfying meal.
Here are some key ingredients you’ll need for the perfect beef stew:
- Beef: Choose a tender cut of beef such as stew meat, chuck roast, or round steak. Cut it into bite-sized pieces to ensure it cooks evenly.
- Vegetables: Potatoes, carrots, onions, and celery are essential for adding texture and flavor to the stew.
- Beef broth: This savory liquid will serve as the base of the stew, enhancing the meaty flavors.
- Tomato paste: Adding tomato paste will give the stew a rich and slightly tangy flavor.
- Herbs and spices: Use a combination of bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, and parsley to infuse the stew with aromatic and earthy flavors.
- Flour: Coating the beef in flour before browning will help thicken the stew and add a silky texture.
- Red wine: Adding a splash of red wine will deepen the flavors of the stew and create a savory complexity.
- Salt and pepper: Season the stew to taste with salt and pepper, balancing the flavors to your preference.
By combining these ingredients in the right proportions and allowing the stew to cook slowly in a crockpot, you can create a flavorful and tender beef stew that is sure to warm your soul and impress your taste buds.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Delicious Beef Stew
Beef stew is a comforting and hearty dish that is perfect for cold weather or any time you want a satisfying meal. With this step-by-step guide, you can create a delicious beef stew that will impress your family and friends.
Gather Your Ingredients: To make this amazing beef stew, you will need high-quality ingredients. Pick up some lean beef stew meat, vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and onions, and flavourful spices like thyme, bay leaves, and black pepper. You will also need beef broth and red wine to enhance the taste.
Prepare the Ingredients: Start by cutting the beef into bite-sized cubes and seasoning them with salt and pepper. Chop the vegetables into chunks and mince the garlic. Measure out the spices and have the beef broth and red wine ready to go.
Sear the Beef: Heat some oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Working in batches, sear the beef cubes on all sides until they are nicely browned. This step helps to develop rich flavors in the stew.
Start the Slow Cooking Process: Transfer the seared beef cubes to a slow cooker and add in the chopped vegetables and minced garlic. Sprinkle the spices over the top and pour in the beef broth and red wine. Give everything a stir to combine.
Cook on Low Heat: Place the lid on the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 7-8 hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together and the beef to become tender and juicy.
Finish and Serve: Once the cooking time is up, remove the lid and give the stew a final stir. If desired, you can thicken the stew by mixing cornstarch with a little water and stirring it into the stew. Serve the beef stew with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Tips and Tricks to Enhance the Flavor and Texture of Your Beef Stew
Beef stew is a comforting and hearty dish that can be made even more delicious by incorporating a few simple tips and tricks. Whether you’re using a slow cooker or cooking on the stovetop, these techniques will take your beef stew to the next level.
1. Brown the meat: Before adding the beef to the stew, take the time to brown it in a hot skillet. This will add depth and richness to the overall taste of the stew. Make sure to pat the meat dry and season it with salt and pepper, then sear it in a hot pan until it develops a brown crust. This step helps to lock in the flavor and juices of the meat.
2. Use homemade stock: Instead of using store-bought stock, try making your own beef stock for the stew. This allows you to control the flavors and intensity of the broth. Simmer a combination of beef bones, vegetables, and herbs for several hours to create a rich and flavorful stock that will elevate your stew to new heights.
3. Incorporate red wine: For a luxurious and richly flavored beef stew, consider adding a splash of red wine. The wine adds depth and complexity to the dish, and the alcohol cooks off during the simmering process, leaving behind a rich, savory flavor. Choose a dry red wine that you enjoy drinking, such as cabernet sauvignon or merlot.
4. Add herbs and spices: Experiment with different herbs and spices to tailor the flavor of your beef stew to your preferences. Popular choices include thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, and garlic. You can also add a touch of warmth and spice with ingredients like paprika, cumin, or chili powder. Start with a small amount of each herb and spice, then adjust to taste as the stew simmers.
5. Thicken the sauce: If you prefer a thicker stew, you can incorporate a thickening agent such as flour or cornstarch. Mix the thickening agent with a small amount of water to create a slurry, then stir it into the stew. Allow the stew to simmer for a few more minutes to thicken the sauce. Be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning after thickening to ensure the flavors are balanced.
By following these tips and tricks, you can transform your beef stew into a flavorful and satisfying meal that will leave your guests coming back for seconds.
Variations and Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Beef Stew
While the classic slow cooker beef stew recipe from McCormick is undeniably delicious, there are a few variations you can try to personalize the dish to your preferences. Here are some ideas:
- Veggies Galore: Experiment with different vegetables in your stew. You can add mushrooms, parsnips, turnips, or sweet potatoes to enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
- Herb Infusion: Customize the herb blend in your stew by using different combinations like thyme, rosemary, or oregano. This will give your stew a unique and aromatic twist.
- Wine or Beer: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine or dark beer to your stew. The alcohol will cook off during the slow cooking process, leaving behind a rich and savory taste.
- Spice it up: If you prefer a spicier stew, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to give it a kick. Adjust the spice level to your liking.
When it comes to serving your slow cooker beef stew, there are a few options that pair perfectly with this comforting dish:
- Bread or Biscuits: Serve your stew with a side of crusty bread or warm, flaky biscuits. This will help soak up the delicious gravy and complete the meal.
- Mashed Potatoes: For a heartier meal, consider serving the stew over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes. The combination of tender meat, vegetables, and potatoes is a classic favorite.
- Cauliflower Rice: For a healthier twist, you can serve your stew over cauliflower rice instead of traditional white rice. This adds a lighter element to the dish without compromising on taste.
Remember, the possibilities are endless when it comes to variations and serving suggestions for your slow cooker beef stew. Feel free to get creative and tailor the recipe to your liking. No matter how you prepare and serve it, this hearty and comforting dish is sure to be a hit!
10 Best Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe Ever Mccormick
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
What are some variations of slow cooker beef stew?
There are many variations of slow cooker beef stew. Some popular options include adding different vegetables like celery, parsnips, or sweet potatoes, using different types of broth or stock, adding red wine or beer for extra flavor, or adding herbs and spices like thyme or rosemary.
How can I make my slow cooker beef stew more flavorful?
There are several ways to make your slow cooker beef stew more flavorful. You can brown the beef before adding it to the slow cooker to enhance the flavor, use a combination of beef broth and red wine for the liquid, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce, and experiment with different herbs and spices to find the flavors you prefer.
Can I make slow cooker beef stew without using potatoes?
Yes, you can make slow cooker beef stew without potatoes. Instead of potatoes, you can use other starchy vegetables like butternut squash, turnips, or even cauliflower to add bulk and texture to the stew.
What are some serving suggestions for slow cooker beef stew?
Slow cooker beef stew is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with crusty bread, biscuits, or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. Some people like to sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top for added freshness. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated cheese for extra richness.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are endless variations and serving options when it comes to slow cooker beef stew. From adding different vegetables, spices, and herbs to experimenting with different meats and broths, there is a version for every palate. Whether served over fluffy mashed potatoes, polenta, or thick slices of crusty bread, slow cooker beef stew is a comforting and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed on cold winter nights or any time you crave a hearty and delicious dish. So gather your ingredients, fire up your slow cooker, and prepare to delight your taste buds with a steaming bowl of slow cooker beef stew.
