How to Make Delicious Crockpot Beef Stew in 10 Hours

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of beef stew, especially when it’s made in a Crockpot. As the weather cools down, I find myself craving hearty meals that are not only delicious but also easy to prepare. This Crockpot Beef Stew Recipe is perfect for those busy days when you want to come home to a meal that feels like a warm hug. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for quick family dinners, and it pairs beautifully with some easy pasta recipes for a complete meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.
• Hands-off cooking—just set it and forget it!
• Perfect for meal prep and leftovers.
• Rich, hearty flavors that everyone will love.
• Great for cozy weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Crockpot Beef Stew, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• 2 pounds boneless stewing beef cubes (or chuck)
• 1/2 medium onion (chopped)
• 6 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 pound Yukon Gold potatoes (peeled & diced into fairly large bite-size pieces)
• 4 large carrots (peeled & cut into fairly large bite-size pieces)
• 3 sticks celery (chopped)
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste (see note)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Pepper (to taste)
• 3 bay leaves
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional)

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s dive into the steps to create this mouthwatering stew:

1. Add 1 tablespoon of the olive oil to a skillet and sear half the beef cubes over medium-high heat until browned on all sides. Transfer to a plate and repeat with the remaining beef cubes.
2. Once all the beef is seared, transfer it (along with any juices) to your slow cooker.
3. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, then stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds. Transfer this mixture to the Crockpot.
4. Add the remaining ingredients (except for the bay leaves and cornstarch) to your slow cooker. Stir well to combine.
5. Gently add the bay leaves in. Cook on low for 10 hours or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded beautifully.
6. Optional: If you prefer a thicker stew, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, stir it into the stew, and cook for about 10 minutes until thickened.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your Crockpot Beef Stew turns out perfectly:

• For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the broth.
• Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand—parsnips, turnips, or even green beans work wonderfully!
• Don’t skip the searing step; it adds a depth of flavor that makes a big difference.
• For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

How to Serve

This Slow Cooker Beef Stew is perfect on its own, but I love serving it with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of creamy garlic pasta for a delightful twist. You can also pair it with a fresh salad for a complete meal. If you’re looking for more ideas, check out my Beef with Broccoli or Beef Stir Fry recipes for a quick weeknight dinner!

Make Ahead and Storage

This stew is a fantastic make-ahead meal! You can prepare it the night before and let it cook while you go about your day. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the stew for up to 3 months—just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and let’s get cooking! This Easy Beef Stew Recipe is sure to become a family favorite, and I can’t wait for you to try it. Happy cooking!