Classic Slow Cooker Beef Stew with Potatoes and Carrots
Description
This hearty beef stew features tender, slow-cooked beef, golden baby potatoes, sweet carrots, and celery simmered in a rich, savory brown gravy. It’s a comforting, old-fashioned dinner perfect for chilly evenings and family meals.
Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 7–8 hours on LOW or 4–5 hours on HIGH
Total Time: 7 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
2 lb (900 g) beef chuck, cut into large chunks
1½ lb baby potatoes, halved
4 medium carrots, cut into thick chunks
2 celery stalks, sliced
1 medium onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
3 cups beef broth
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
1 bay leaf
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp black pepper
Salt, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the beef: Pat the beef chunks dry with paper towels. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Brown the beef: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the beef on all sides for about 2–3 minutes per side. This step adds extra flavor.
Prepare the vegetables: Place potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic in the slow cooker.
Add the beef: Arrange the browned beef chunks over the vegetables.
Make the broth: Whisk together beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, flour, thyme, and rosemary until smooth.
Combine: Pour the broth mixture into the slow cooker and add the bay leaf.
Slow cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 7–8 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours, until the beef is fork-tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
Thicken the gravy: If needed, remove the lid for the final 20–30 minutes on HIGH. Alternatively, stir in a slurry made with 1 tbsp cornstarch and 1 tbsp cold water.
Finish and serve: Remove the bay leaf, taste and adjust seasoning, then sprinkle with fresh parsley.
Healthy Benefits
Protein-rich: Beef provides protein to support muscle maintenance.
Vitamin-rich vegetables: Carrots provide beta-carotene, while potatoes contribute potassium and vitamin C.
Satisfying meal: Protein, vegetables, and potatoes make this a filling one-pot dinner.
Homemade goodness: Preparing the stew at home lets you control the salt and ingredients.
Pro Tips
Choose beef chuck for tender, flavorful results.
Cut vegetables into large, even pieces so they hold their shape.
Avoid lifting the slow-cooker lid frequently.
For deeper flavor, brown the beef before adding it.
Add extra broth if you prefer a thinner stew.
Frequency
Enjoy this comforting stew occasionally as part of a balanced weekly meal plan. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours and use within 3–4 days.
Q/A
Q: Can I make this stew without a slow cooker?
A: Yes. Cook it in a covered Dutch oven at 325°F (165°C) for approximately 2½–3½ hours, until the beef is tender.
Q: Can I freeze beef stew?
A: Yes. Cool it, transfer it to freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Q: How do I make the gravy thicker?
A: Stir in a cornstarch slurry near the end of cooking and heat until thickened.
Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Yes! Mushrooms, peas, parsnips, or green beans are delicious additions. Add peas and green beans near the end.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with crusty bread to soak up the rich gravy.
Pair with a fresh green salad.
Enjoy with warm dinner rolls.
Garnish with chopped parsley and freshly cracked black pepper.
Variations
Red Wine Beef Stew: Replace ½ cup of broth with red wine.
Mushroom Beef Stew: Add 1–2 cups sliced mushrooms.
Gluten-Free Version: Replace flour with cornstarch and use certified gluten-free Worcestershire sauce.
Herb-Loaded Stew: Add fresh rosemary and thyme.
Spicy Version: Add a pinch of chili flakes.
Related Recipe Ideas
Classic Pot Roast with Vegetables
Slow Cooker Beef and Pearl Onion Stew
Garlic Herb Beef Roast
Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup
Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Beef
Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy
Final Thought
This Classic Slow Cooker Beef Stew is the ultimate comfort food, with melt-in-your-mouth beef, tender potatoes, sweet carrots, and rich homemade gravy. It’s simple to prepare, full of traditional flavor, and perfect for sharing with family.
