Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, this stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Can I substitute red wine?

Yes—just use extra beef broth, or try a splash of balsamic vinegar for added depth.

What can I serve with this stew?

Crusty bread, garlic toast, or a scoop of mashed potatoes make perfect companions. You can also serve it over rice for a heartier meal.

Comforting Crockpot Beef Stew: 7 Irresistible Tips

Description

This Comforting Crockpot Beef Stew is the ultimate cozy dinner — tender chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich, savory broth that simmers to perfection. It’s an easy, set-it-and-forget-it slow cooker meal that fills your home with warmth and comfort.

Ingredients

Scale

2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into bite-sized pieces
4 carrots, sliced
3 potatoes, peeled and diced
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups beef broth
1 cup red wine (optional, for richer flavor)
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper, to taste
Olive oil, for searing

Optional toppings: Fresh parsley, for garnish

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Instructions

Prepare the ingredients: Trim any excess fat from the beef and chop your vegetables into uniform, bite-sized pieces. Season beef with salt and pepper.
Sear the beef: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef on all sides until browned.
Combine in crockpot: Transfer the seared beef to your slow cooker. Add carrots, potatoes, onion, garlic, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, beef broth, and red wine (if using). Stir well.
Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4–5 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are soft.
Finish & serve: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. If you want a thicker stew, stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water). Serve warm with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.

Notes

For a healthier variation, use sweet potatoes or leaner cuts of beef.
Skip the wine if preferred — just replace it with more beef broth.
The stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen!
Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 Serving
Calories: 385 kcal
Sugar: 5 g
Sodium: 670 mg
Fat: 15 g
Saturated Fat: 5 g
Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 28 g
Fiber: 4 g
Protein: 32 g
Cholesterol: 95 mg