This easy crockpot beef stew recipe is filled with tender beef and flavorful vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and peas, all smothered in a rich and hearty beef gravy. It only takes 10 minutes to prep, making it a comforting and easy weeknight meal option!Sometimes, you just need some true comfort, and there’s nothing cozier than a big bowl of hearty beef stew! What makes it even better is that the slow cooker does all the work for you, so all you need to do is dig in when it’s time to eat. This beef stew is always a hit on chilly winter nights, sick days, or just for when you need a warm hug in the form of a meal! Here’s why we’ve been making this slow cooker recipe for so many years:Easy 10 Minute Prep: Basically, the only prep work that you need to do is to cut the vegetables. There’s no need to sear the beef either. Once your veggies are prepped you just toss it all into the slow cooker and step away! Sometimes we will cut them and store them in the fridge overnight so morning prep is even easier!Family Friendly: When it comes to American classic dinners, beef stew is one of the most well loved and enjoyed from kids to adults. Just don’t forget the warm soft rolls to soak up all that savory gravy and the whole family will dive in!Affordable: There are no expensive cuts of beef or fancy ingredients here. Beef stew pieces are usually pretty inexpensive, as are potatoes and carrots. You don’t even need any sides, it’s a one pot dinner with the main dish and side all in one.Travels Well: This is also a great hearty dish to take to a party or potluck during the colder months. It travels easily in crockpot and all you need are bowls and spoons to serve it up!Most of the ingredients you need are probably already in your pantry! Below you will find helpful notes for key ingredients used to make crock pot beef stew. Scroll down to the recipe card for the full ingredient list and exact amounts!Beef Broth: Try to use low-sodium beef broth so that you can control the salt level.Cubed Stew Beef: Easy to find in the grocery store and it’s super affordable! A great way to eat beef on a budget. It may be labeled as cubed chuck roast or stew meat.Beef Bouillon: This will deepen the flavor of the beef gravy. We used Better Than Bouillon, but you could also use granulated beef bouillon.Potatoes: We used Yukon gold potatoes as their buttery texture works perfectly, but you can also use red potatoes.Sliced Carrots: Whole carrots have more flavor, but baby carrots can also be used.Frozen Peas: No need to thaw.Ingredients▢2 cups beef broth▢2 pounds cubed stew beef▢1 tablespoon garlic powder▢1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly cracked▢1 teaspoon salt▢1 tablespoon beef bouillon▢1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce▢1 ½ pounds golden Yukon potatoes, cut into chunks▢2 cups sliced carrots▢1 large yellow onion, sliced▢1 cup frozen sweet peas▢3 tablespoons cornstarch▢3 tablespoons waterInstructionsPour the beef broth into the crockpot and add the beef. Sprinkle the beef with the garlic, black pepper, salt, beef bouillon and Worcestershire sauce.Add the cut potatoes, carrots and sliced onion on top of the beef.Place lid on crockpot and set your time. Cook for 4-6 hours on high, or 6-8 hours on low, until beef is fork tender.Once stew is cooked, add in the sweet peas.To thicken the gravy, you will need to make a slurry with cornstarch and gravy. In a bowl, whisk to combine the cornstarch and water until smooth. Then slowly pour the slurry into the crockpot and stir until all combined.Replace lid and turn the crockpot to high heat and cook for 10 minutes, stirring every so often, until thickened. Serve immediately!NotesStorage: Store leftovers in an airtight container, in the fridge, for up to 5 days. Freeze: Freeze for up to 3 months. Let thaw in the fridge for 24 hours before serving for best results.Reheat: You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.Sear the beef: To deepen the flavor of the beef, you can sear the beef in the skillet before adding it to your crockpot. This is not necessary but will add an extra depth of flavor to your stew.Add more flavor: Add ¼ cup of red wine (or unsweetened black coffee!) for a more intense gravy flavor.Beef Bouillon: This will deepen the flavor of the beef gravy. We used Better Than Bouillon, but you could also use granulated beef bouillon.Low and slow method: We highly recommend going with the low setting for a longer cooking time for the most tender beef.
Crockpot Beef Stew
