Classic Slow Cooker Beef Stew

There is nothing quite like coming home to the aroma of Classic Slow Cooker Beef Stew simmering away all day This stew has been my comforting go to for cold nights and busy weeks with its melt in your mouth beef tender potatoes and carrots all cozied up in a luscious savory broth One simple prep in the morning and dinner is waiting when you walk in the door

What Makes It Special

• Uses simple ingredients most found in your pantry
• The slow cooker does all the work for you
• Tender beef and veggies in every bite
• Delicious leftovers that taste even better the next day
• Perfect for family meals or weekend guests

The first time I made this stew I could not believe how effortless it was It quickly became a staple on our Sunday dinner table now my family asks for it as soon as the weather turns chilly

What You’ll Need

• Beef tips or stew meat: choose well marbled cuts like chuck for the most tender result
• Sweet onion: peeled and diced adds subtle sweetness and depth
• Carrots: peeled and cut into large pieces or baby carrots for less prep choose firm bright ones for best flavor
• Potatoes: sturdy russet or Yukon Gold hold up best and provide heartiness go for potatoes without green spots or eyes
• Small tapioca pearls: gives thickness and body to the broth these are found in the baking aisle make sure they are plain not flavored
• Tomato paste: concentrated and rich a little spoonful creates balance in the stew use double concentrate if you find it
• Sugar: just a bit brightens out the flavors and brings the broth together
• Herb and garlic seasoning: a blended mix saves time and gives complex savory notes use a blend you love the smell of
• Salt: rounds out all the flavors go easy at first then finish to taste
• Beef broth: the backbone of the stew use low sodium and high quality for the richest taste

Let’s Cook This Together

Prepare the Foundations:

Dice the onion peel and chop the carrots and potatoes into large rustic chunks Taking the time to cut everything about the same size ensures even cooking and perfect spoonfuls every time

Layer and Season in the Slow Cooker:

Add beef onions carrots potatoes tapioca tomato paste sugar herb and garlic seasoning and salt to your slow cooker Pour the beef broth evenly over everything then stir well to combine This ensures every chunk picks up flavor and the tapioca starts to dissolve

Set and Forget:

Cover the slow cooker and choose your setting Cook on high for four hours or low for eight hours The long low heat is what makes the beef outrageously tender and helps all the flavors meld

Check and Finish:

Just before serving give the stew a good stir and check for seasoning If it is too thin you can mash a few potatoes right into the pot for extra body Otherwise let the stew sit with the lid off for 10 to 15 minutes to thicken or stir in a cornstarch slurry late in the cook

Serve and Savor:

Ladle the beef stew into warm bowls and be ready for everyone to dive in Serve with crusty bread or just as it is and do not forget to enjoy the leftovers the next day

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Good to Know

• Makes a hearty filling meal that freezes beautifully
• Loaded with protein and fiber rich veggies
• Easy to adapt to your family’s tastes

My personal favorite part of this stew is how the potatoes soak up the savory juices and practically melt in your mouth I always remember my dad sneaking bites of potato from the slow cooker before dinner and now my own kids try to do the same

Keeping It Fresh

Store leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to four days The flavors only get better as they mingle together When you want to freeze it cool the stew completely and portion into freezer safe bags flattened for easy stacking It reheats quickly on the stove or microwave and a splash of broth will bring it back to its perfect consistency

Easy Ingredient Swaps

No tapioca pearls No problem A spoonful of cornstarch or flour mixed with water thickens just as well If you want extra veggies sneak in celery or parsnips or swap sweet potatoes for a twist You can also use chicken or vegetable broth if you do not have beef broth on hand for a lighter taste

How to Serve It Right

Always serve this stew piping hot for ultimate comfort It is incredible with sliced French bread or sourdough to soak up every last bit If you have fresh parsley or chives sprinkle them on top for a hit of freshness and color For bigger gatherings keep it warm in your slow cooker on the buffet

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Behind the Dish

This recipe comes from a long line of family cooks who believed that good food does not have to be complicated Over the years I have tweaked it to suit what my family loves the most and every time I make it I am reminded of those cozy evenings with food that brings everyone to the table There is a real magic in slow cooked meals and beef stew is a tradition I hope to pass on

Recipe FAQs

→ How can the stew be thickened?

If the broth is too thin, mash a few potatoes directly in the pot or stir in a cornstarch slurry during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

→ What cuts of beef work best?

Beef tips or chuck roast are ideal as they become tender with slow cooking and absorb the flavors of the broth well.

→ Can I prepare this ahead as a freezer meal?

Yes, combine all ingredients (except broth) in a freezer bag, remove air, freeze flat, and thaw before cooking as usual.

→ How long can leftovers be stored?

Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

→ What vegetables can be added or substituted?

Along with potatoes, carrots, and onions, mushrooms, parsnips, or celery can be included for variety and added flavor.

→ Is it possible to halve or double the batch?

The dish can be easily halved for fewer servings or doubled for larger groups—adjust cooking times if needed.