Olivia Carter
Are you looking for a hearty and delicious meal that practically cooks itself? Look no further than this amazing slow cooker beef stew with bacon. Packed with tender chunks of beef, savory bacon, and a medley of vegetables, this stew is the ultimate comfort food.
The secret to the incredible flavor of this beef stew lies in the slow cooking process. By allowing the ingredients to simmer for hours, the flavors have time to meld together, resulting in a rich and satisfying dish. Plus, the convenience of the slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, leaving you with a delicious meal waiting for you at the end of a long day.
One of the standout ingredients in this stew is the bacon. Its smoky and salty flavor adds depth and richness to the dish, making it truly irresistible. Combined with the fork-tender beef and a flavorful broth, every spoonful is like a warm and comforting hug.
Ingredients
The slow cooker beef stew with bacon recipe requires a variety of flavorful and wholesome ingredients. Here are the essential components:
Bacon:
A generous amount of crispy bacon adds a smoky and savory depth to the beef stew. It provides a rich and delicious taste that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
Beef Chuck:
Tender beef chuck is the main ingredient in this recipe. It is a flavorful cut that becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender when cooked slowly. The beef enhances the overall taste and texture of the stew.
Vegetables:
A selection of vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, and onions are essential to add flavor, texture, and nutritional value to the beef stew. These vegetables provide a hearty and comforting element to the dish.
Beef Broth:
Beef broth serves as the base for the stew, providing a rich and savory flavor. It helps to tenderize the beef and keeps the stew moist and flavorful throughout the cooking process.
Tomato Paste:
A small amount of tomato paste adds a hint of acidity and sweetness to the stew. It helps to balance the flavors and enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Herbs and Spices:
A combination of herbs and spices such as thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, garlic, and black pepper infuse the stew with aromatic flavors. They add depth and complexity to the dish, making it even more delicious.
In addition to these key ingredients, you may also add other herbs, spices, or vegetables according to your personal preference to customize the taste of your slow cooker beef stew with bacon.
Preparation Time
Preparing a delicious slow cooker beef stew with bacon may take some time, but the end result is definitely worth it. The total preparation time for this recipe is approximately 30 minutes, not including the time needed for the stew to cook in the slow cooker.
To begin, you will need to gather all of the ingredients for the stew. This includes beef stew meat, bacon, onions, carrots, potatoes, garlic, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. You will also need a slow cooker and a stovetop skillet.
First, you will need to cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it becomes crispy. While the bacon is cooking, you can chop the onions, carrots, and potatoes. Once the bacon is crispy, remove it from the skillet and set it aside, leaving the bacon grease in the skillet.
In the same skillet, you will then cook the onions and garlic until they become tender and fragrant. Next, you will add the beef stew meat to the skillet and brown it on all sides. This will help to seal in the flavors and juices of the meat.
Once the meat is browned, you can transfer it to the slow cooker along with the cooked bacon, carrots, potatoes, thyme, bay leaves, beef broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything together to ensure that the ingredients are well combined.
Finally, cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low heat for 8 hours or on high heat for 4-6 hours. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the meat to become tender and flavorful. Once the cooking time is complete, you can remove the bay leaves and serve the beef stew hot with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
Cooking Time
When it comes to making the best slow cooker beef stew with bacon, the cooking time is a crucial factor. The dish requires a longer cooking time to ensure that all the flavors meld together and the meat becomes tender.
On average, the beef stew with bacon should be cooked for 6 to 8 hours on low heat setting. This allows the ingredients to simmer slowly, resulting in a rich and hearty stew. However, it is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the meat pieces, as well as the desired level of tenderness.
For those who prefer a faster cooking time, the beef stew can be cooked on high heat setting for 4 to 5 hours. This will still result in a delicious stew, but the meat may not be as tender as with the longer cooking time.
It is recommended to periodically check the stew while it is cooking to ensure that it is not overcooking or undercooking. Stirring the ingredients occasionally can also help distribute the flavors evenly. For best results, it is advisable to follow the recipe instructions and adjust the cooking time accordingly based on personal preferences and the desired level of tenderness.
Instructions
Follow these steps to make the best slow cooker beef stew with bacon:
1. Prepare the ingredients
Gather all the necessary ingredients for the beef stew, including beef chunks, bacon, vegetables like carrots and potatoes, and herbs and spices.
2. Prepare the meat and bacon
Trim excess fat from the beef chunks and cut them into bite-sized pieces. Cut the bacon into small strips or cubes.
3. Sear the meat and bacon
In a large skillet, heat some oil and brown the beef chunks and bacon until they develop a nice crust. This step will add flavor to the stew.
4. Prep the slow cooker
Transfer the seared meat and bacon to the slow cooker. Add in the vegetables, such as carrots and potatoes, along with any other desired ingredients like onions or garlic.
5. Season the stew
Season the stew with herbs and spices like thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences.
6. Add liquid
Add enough liquid to cover the ingredients in the slow cooker. This can be beef broth, red wine, or a combination of both. The liquid will create a flavorful base for the stew.
7. Cook on low heat
Set the slow cooker to low heat and let the stew cook for several hours, allowing the flavors to meld together and the meat to become tender and juicy.
8. Serve and enjoy
Once the stew is done cooking, serve it hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of the beef, bacon, and vegetables. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Follow these instructions, and you’ll have a delicious slow cooker beef stew with bacon that is perfect for a cozy meal on a chilly day.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to make your slow cooker beef stew with bacon even more delicious:
- For added flavor, brown the bacon in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker. This will give the stew a rich, smoky taste.
- If you prefer a thicker stew, you can coat the beef pieces in flour before browning them. This will help thicken the sauce as it cooks.
- To make the stew more hearty, add diced potatoes or root vegetables such as carrots and parsnips. These vegetables will soften and absorb the flavors of the stew as they cook.
- If you like a bit of a kick, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the stew. This will add a spicy element to the dish.
- For a twist on the classic recipe, try adding some chopped mushrooms or pearl onions. These ingredients will add depth and complexity to the stew.
Remember, the beauty of slow cooking is that you can customize the recipe to your liking. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and seasonings to create a beef stew that suits your taste preferences. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
When serving the best slow cooker beef stew with bacon, there are several delicious options to consider. These serving suggestions will enhance the flavors of the stew and create a well-rounded meal.
1. Crusty Bread
A warm, crusty bread complements the rich and savory flavors of the beef stew. Whether it’s a loaf of freshly baked sourdough, a baguette, or even homemade biscuits, the bread is perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth. The chewy texture and the slight tang of the bread create a perfect contrast to the tender meat and vegetables.
2. Creamy Mashed Potatoes
If you’re looking for a heartier option, serve the beef stew over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes. The creamy and smooth texture of the mashed potatoes pairs exceptionally well with the tender beef and vegetables. The combination of flavors is comforting and satisfying, making it an ideal choice for a cozy dinner.
3. Steamed Vegetables
For a healthier side dish, steamed vegetables such as carrots, broccoli, or green beans make an excellent accompaniment to the beef stew. The vibrant colors and crisp textures of the vegetables provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty stew. They also add an extra dose of vitamins and nutrients to the meal.
4. Fresh Herbs
To add a touch of freshness and brightness, sprinkle some freshly chopped herbs over the beef stew before serving. Herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary can enhance the flavors of the dish and add a pop of color. The aromatic herbs bring an extra layer of complexity to the stew and elevate the overall dining experience.
5. Red Wine
Pair the beef stew with a glass of rich and full-bodied red wine for a complete dining experience. The tannins in the wine complement the richness of the stew, while the flavors of the wine can enhance the flavors of the beef and bacon. Choose a red wine that matches your taste preferences, whether it’s a Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Pinot Noir.
With these serving suggestions, you can elevate the best slow cooker beef stew with bacon into a memorable and satisfying meal. Whether you opt for crusty bread, creamy mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, fresh herbs, or a glass of red wine, these accompaniments will enhance the flavors and create a well-rounded dining experience.
Storage and Reheating
For leftover beef stew, it is important to store it properly to maintain its freshness and flavor. Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate it for up to 3-4 days. If you want to store the stew for longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months.
When reheating the beef stew, you can do it on the stovetop or in the microwave. If using the stovetop, transfer the stew to a saucepan and heat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until it is heated through. If using the microwave, transfer the stew to a microwave-safe bowl and heat in increments of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between, until it is hot.
To enhance the flavors, you can add a splash of beef broth or water while reheating and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the reheated beef stew with bacon with a side of crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal.
10 Best Slow Cooker Beef Stew With Bacon
Elite Gourmet 8.5Qt Digital Slow Cooker
Features
| Part Number | 0717056132592 |
| Model | MST-900D |
| Color | Stainless Steel/Black |
| Size | 8.5 Quarts |
Organic Low Sodium Beef Broth Pack
Features
| Part Number | 42269 |
| Model | 05436 |
| Color | Low Sodium Beef |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Release Date | 2024-09-21T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 32 Fl Oz (Pack of 12) |
| Publication Date | 2010-07-10T00:00:01Z |
100% Grass Fed Beef Stew Meat
Features
| Is Adult Product | |
| Size | 4 Pack |
Crock-Pot 6 Quart Programmable Cooker
Features
| Part Number | B004P2NG0K1 |
| Model | CPSCVC60LL-S |
| Warranty | 1yr |
| Color | Stainless Steel |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Release Date | 2020-09-08T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 6 Quarts |
| Language | English |
Bacon Up Cooking Grease Tub
Features
| Size | 21.9 Pounds |
FAQ
What is the best way to store leftovers?
The leftovers should be stored in airtight containers or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
How long can leftovers be stored in the refrigerator?
Leftovers can be safely stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
Can you reheat food more than once?
It is generally safe to reheat food only once. Repeated reheating can increase the risk of foodborne illnesses.
Conclusion
In conclusion, proper storage and reheating techniques are crucial for maintaining food safety and quality. By following these guidelines, one can reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses and enjoy leftovers without compromising taste or texture. It is important to store food in airtight containers, refrigerate promptly, and discard any leftovers that have been sitting out for more than two hours. Additionally, reheating leftovers should be done safely by using the appropriate methods such as the stove, oven, or microwave. By taking these precautions, individuals can maximize the shelf life of their food and ensure it is safe to consume.
