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

1. Prepare the beef: Pat the beef chunks dry with paper towels. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.

2. 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.

3. Prepare the vegetables: Place potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic in the slow cooker.

4. Add the beef: Arrange the browned beef chunks over the vegetables.

5. Make the broth: Whisk together beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, flour, thyme, and rosemary until smooth.

6. Combine: Pour the broth mixture into the slow cooker and add the bay leaf.

7. 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.

8. 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.

9. 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.