Crockpot Beef Stew

Hearty chunks of beef, soft carrots, and velvety potatoes simmering in a rich, thick broth that tastes like it’s been cooking all day—because it has! This slow-cooker beef stew is the definition of comfort and pairs perfectly with a hunk of crusty bread.

Some meals just feel like home, and this Crockpot Beef Stew is one of ‘em. It’s the kind of dish that fills your house with a mouthwatering aroma and makes you count down the minutes ‘til dinnertime. With fall-apart tender beef, hearty veggies, and a thick, flavorful broth, this slow-cooked classic is the ultimate cozy meal for chilly nights. Plus, since the crockpot does all the work, you can go about your day while it simmers away. Now that’s my kind of cooking!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into chunks
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, but adds a nice depth!)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cups beef broth
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 medium carrots, sliced into chunks
• 3 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional, added at the end)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 3 tablespoons water (for thickening, if needed)

Supplies Needed

• 6-quart slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

Sear the Beef
In a large bowl, toss the beef chunks with flour, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika until evenly coated. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the beef for 3-4 minutes per side until browned. Transfer to the crockpot.

Build the Flavor
In the same skillet, add 1/2 cup of the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Stir in the tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce, then pour it all into the crockpot.

Add the Veggies & Herbs
Toss in the carrots, potatoes, onion, celery, garlic, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Pour in the remaining 2 1/2 cups beef broth, then give everything a good stir.

Let It Simmer
Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is fork-tender and the veggies are soft.

Thicken the Stew (If Needed)
If you like a thicker stew, stir in the cornstarch slurry during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Finishing Touches
Remove the bay leaf, stir in the frozen peas, and let them warm through for 5 minutes before serving.

Serve and Enjoy
Ladle generous portions into bowls and serve with crusty bread for soaking up that rich, velvety broth!

Storage Tips

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

Recipe Tips & Tricks

Best Cut of Beef: Chuck roast works best—it’s marbled and gets melt-in-your-mouth tender after slow cooking.
Thicker Stew Hack: Instead of cornstarch, mash a few potato chunks into the broth for natural thickening.
Extra Flavor Boost: A splash of red wine in the broth takes this stew to the next level!

Variations

Herb Butter Beef Stew: Stir in 2 tablespoons of garlic herb butter right before serving for a silky finish.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
Veggie Lover’s Stew: Swap half the beef for extra mushrooms and bell peppers for a plant-forward version.

FAQ

Can I skip searing the beef?
You can, but searing locks in flavor and adds richness to the broth. It’s worth the extra step!

Can I use a different thickener?
Yes! Mashed potatoes or a bit of instant potato flakes work great in place of cornstarch.

What’s the best way to reheat beef stew?
Warm it gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.

This Crockpot Beef Stew is the kind of meal that makes you slow down and savor every bite. It’s rich, hearty, and packed with old-fashioned comfort—just like a stew should be. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping for cozy leftovers, this recipe is a must-have for your slow-cooker collection. So grab a bowl, tear off a piece of crusty bread, and dig in!

Disclosure: Y’all, this post may contain affiliate links. That means if you click and buy, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). Keeps the beef stewin’ and the kitchen cozy—thank ya kindly!