Tender chunks of beef simmer with potatoes, carrots, onions, and herbs in a rich broth. It’s the kind of meal that makes your whole house smell amazing and warms you right through.
🛒 What You’ll Need
Meat & Veggies:
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast (cut into 1 ½-inch cubes)
- 4 medium potatoes (peeled and cubed)
- 3 carrots (sliced into thick pieces)
- 1 onion (diced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
For the Broth:
- 4 cups beef broth
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt & black pepper to taste
For Thickening (optional):
- 2 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp cold water (slurry)
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley (chopped)
👩🍳 Pro Tips
- Brown the beef first in a skillet before adding to the slow cooker for extra flavor.
- Cut veggies into large chunks so they don’t turn mushy.
- Add peas or green beans in the last 30 minutes for extra color.
- Use Yukon gold potatoes — they hold their shape better than russet.
- If you like a thicker stew, don’t forget the cornstarch slurry at the end.
🧰 Tools You’ll Need
- Slow cooker (6-quart recommended)
- Large skillet (if browning beef)
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Cutting board & chef’s knife
🔄 Substitutions & Variations
- Swap beef for chicken thighs for a lighter version.
- Add parsnips or turnips for extra earthy flavor.
- Make it Irish-style by adding 1 cup of Guinness beer.
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Beef
Season beef chunks with salt and pepper. (Optional: Sear in a hot skillet with 1 tbsp oil until browned for richer flavor.)
Step 2: Load Slow Cooker
Place potatoes, carrots, onion, and garlic in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add beef on top.
Step 3: Add Broth & Seasonings
Whisk beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Pour over beef and veggies.
Step 4: Make Ganache
Heat cream until just simmering. Pour over chocolate chips. Let sit 2 minutes, then stir until glossy.
Step 5: Thicken & Serve
If desired, stir in cornstarch slurry and cook for 15 more minutes until thickened. Garnish with parsley before serving.
🧊 Leftovers & Storage
- Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze for up to 3 months (without potatoes, as they don’t freeze well).
- Reheat on the stove with a splash of broth if too thick.
💬 Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Beef Stew is comfort food at its finest — hearty, nourishing, and perfect for chilly evenings or busy days. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll keep coming back to.
👉 Do you want me to also write a chicken slow cooker stew variation for a lighter version?
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