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Hearty Crockpot Beef Stew

4.8/5
5 reviews
Hearty Crockpot Beef Stew
Hearty Crockpot Beef Stew
500min Total Time
6 people Servings
Easy Difficulty
Moderate Cost
385 kcal Calories

Video

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Ingredients

6
  • 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 4 medium potatoes, cut into large chunks
  • 4 carrots, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried rosemary
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch (for thickening)

Instructions

1

Season beef chunks generously with salt and pepper

2

Layer vegetables in the bottom of the crockpot: onions, celery, carrots, and potatoes

3

Place seasoned beef on top of vegetables

4

Mix beef broth, wine, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce in a bowl

5

Pour liquid mixture over the beef and vegetables

6

Add bay leaves, thyme, and rosemary

7

Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours

8

In the last 30 minutes, mix cornstarch with 1/4 cup cold water

9

Stir cornstarch mixture into the stew to thicken

10

Remove bay leaves before serving

11

Let rest for 10 minutes before serving

Troubleshooting

If stew is too watery, add more cornstarch slurry
If meat is tough, cook for additional time until tender
If vegetables are too soft, add them later in the cooking process next time
If stew lacks flavor, adjust seasonings and add more Worcestershire sauce
If gravy is too thick, thin with additional beef broth

Recipe Variations

Irish Style: Add Guinness beer instead of wine French Style: Add burgundy wine and herbs de provence Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper and paprika Low-Carb: Replace potatoes with cauliflower or turnips Hunter's Style: Add mushrooms and bacon

Serving Suggestions

Serve with crusty bread for soaking up the gravy Pair with a fresh green salad Garnish with fresh parsley Serve over mashed potatoes for extra comfort Add a dollop of sour cream on top if desired

Nutrition Facts

385
Calories
32g
Protein
28g
Carbs
18g
Fat

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cutting meat pieces too small which makes them tough Opening the lid too frequently during cooking Not browning the meat before slow cooking (optional but adds flavor) Adding too much liquid which makes the stew watery Forgetting to season adequately at the beginning

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different cuts of beef?

Chuck roast is best, but you can use bottom round or brisket. Avoid lean cuts as they can become tough.

Do I have to brown the meat first?

While not required, browning adds extra flavor and better color to the final dish.

Can I add frozen vegetables?

Fresh is best, but frozen can be used. Add them in the last 2 hours of cooking.

How do I know when the beef is done?

It should be fork-tender and easily break apart when pressed.

Can I cook this on high instead of low?

Yes, cook on high for 4-5 hours instead of 8 hours on low.

What if my stew is too liquid?

Add more cornstarch slurry or continue cooking uncovered to reduce liquid.

Can I make this ahead for a party?

Yes, it actually tastes better the next day after flavors meld.

How do I prevent vegetables from getting mushy?

Cut them in larger pieces and layer them at the bottom of the pot.

Can I skip the wine?

Yes, replace with additional beef broth for similar results.

What's the best way to thicken the gravy?

Use cornstarch slurry in the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, if your crockpot is large enough. Cooking time remains the same.

How should I cut the meat for best results?

Cut into 1-inch cubes against the grain for tenderness.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes, but add triple the amount and put them in during the last hour.

What type of potatoes work best?

Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape better than russet.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, freeze for up to 3 months in airtight containers.

Reviews

Zachary P.
Mar 13, 2026
Perfect comfort food! The meat was so tender it melted in our mouths.
Bianca M.
Mar 3, 2026
Great recipe, though I needed to add more seasoning for our taste.
Raj S.
Mar 24, 2026
The easiest and most delicious beef stew I've ever made!
Victoria L.
Mar 2, 2026
Love how the vegetables retained their shape and flavor.
Marcus T.
Mar 1, 2026
This has become our Sunday dinner staple. So good!
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