why make this recipe

Comforting Crockpot Beef Stew is the perfect dish for chilly days or when you need a warm meal that feels like a big hug. This recipe takes simple ingredients and turns them into a hearty stew that warms you from the inside out. Cooking in a crockpot means you can set it and forget it, making it an easy choice for busy families or anyone looking for a no-fuss dinner.

how to make Comforting Crockpot Beef Stew

Ingredients:

2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
4 carrots, sliced
4 potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth
1 cup red wine (optional)
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 bay leaves

Directions:

In a large skillet, brown the beef cubes on all sides. Transfer to the crockpot.
Add the carrots, potatoes, onion, and garlic to the crockpot.
Pour in the beef broth, red wine (if using), and Worcestershire sauce.
Season with thyme, salt, pepper, and add the bay leaves.
Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender.
Discard the bay leaves and serve warm.

how to serve Comforting Crockpot Beef Stew

This beef stew is best served warm. You can put it in bowls and top it with fresh bread or over rice for a filling meal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley can add a splash of color and freshness, enhancing its appeal.

how to store Comforting Crockpot Beef Stew

To store any leftovers, let the stew cool down completely. Then, transfer it into an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.

tips to make Comforting Crockpot Beef Stew

For extra flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of tomato paste to the stew while cooking.
Using a mix of different root vegetables like parsnips or turnips can add variety and richness.
If you like a thicker stew, you can mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

variation

You can make this stew with different types of meat, such as chicken or lamb. Just adjust the cooking time based on the type of meat used. For a vegetarian version, swap the beef for lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

FAQs

Can I make this stew without red wine?

Yes, you can leave out the red wine. Just replace it with more beef broth to keep the liquid ratio right.

Can I cook this on high instead of low?

Yes, if you are short on time, cooking on high for 3-4 hours will still result in a delicious stew.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include vegetables like peas, green beans, or bell peppers based on your preference. Just add them in the last hour of cooking to prevent them from getting too soft.

Comforting Crockpot Beef Stew

Author: mixturarecipes
Total Time: 495 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: None

Print Recipe

Description

A hearty and comforting beef stew perfect for chilly days, made easily in a crockpot.

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
4 carrots, sliced
4 potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth
1 cup red wine (optional)
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 bay leaves

Instructions

In a large skillet, brown the beef cubes on all sides. Transfer to the crockpot.
Add the carrots, potatoes, onion, and garlic to the crockpot.
Pour in the beef broth, red wine (if using), and Worcestershire sauce.
Season with thyme, salt, pepper, and add the bay leaves.
Cover and cook on low for 480 minutes or on high for 240 minutes until the beef is tender.
Discard the bay leaves and serve warm.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of tomato paste. You can mix in different root vegetables for variety and richness. For a thicker stew, mix cornstarch with water and stir in during the last 30 minutes.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 480 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Crockpot
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: beef stew, crockpot recipes, hearty meals