Beef Stew Recipe Crock Pot: A Comforting Classic

As the weather turns colder, nothing warms the soul quite like a hearty bowl of beef stew. This beef stew recipe crock pot is designed for those who appreciate the ease of slow cooking without sacrificing flavor. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a crock pot, you can create a delicious meal that practically makes itself.

Ingredients

To make this delicious beef stew recipe crock pot, you will need the following ingredients:

• Beef: 2.5 to 3 pounds of beef chuck roast, cut into large chunks
• Vegetables:
  • 1.5 to 2 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into chunks
  • 3 medium carrots, cut into chunks
  • 2 celery sticks, chopped (including leaves for added flavor)
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• Seasonings:
  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ teaspoon salt (adjust based on preference)
  • ½ teaspoon cracked black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme (or herbs of your choice)
  • 1 bay leaf
• Thickening agent: 5 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Soup mix: One packet of beefy onion soup mix (optional)
• Liquid: About 4 cups of beef broth or water

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your beef stew recipe crock pot:

1. Prepare the Meat:
   • In a large bowl, combine the beef chunks with Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, thyme, and flour. Mix well to coat the meat evenly.
2. Layer Ingredients in the Crock Pot:
   • Place the coated beef at the bottom of your crock pot.
   • Add the chopped celery and minced garlic on top of the beef.
   • Next, layer in the potatoes and carrots.
   • If using, sprinkle the beefy onion soup mix over the vegetables.
3. Add Liquid:
   • Pour in enough beef broth or water to cover all ingredients. This will help create a rich gravy as it cooks.
4. Cook:
   • Cover the crock pot with its lid and set it to cook on high for about 4–6 hours or on low for 8–10 hours. The longer it cooks, the more tender the meat will become.
5. Final Touches:
   • About an hour before serving, check on the stew. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can mix some cornstarch with water and stir it into the stew.
   • Before serving, remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning if necessary.
6. Serve:
   • Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

• No Browning Required: This recipe skips browning the meat beforehand, making it a true “dump and go” option for busy cooks.
• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or green beans towards the last hour of cooking for added nutrition and color.
• Storage: Leftover stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for longer storage.

This easy beef stew recipe crock pot is perfect for family dinners or meal prep for busy weeks ahead. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it’s sure to become a staple in your household during chilly months. Enjoy this classic dish that brings warmth and satisfaction with every bite!