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Easy Crockpot Beef Stew

A comforting and simple beef stew that simmers in a slow cooker, perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients
  • 3 pounds Beef chuck roast (cut into cubes) Perfect for slow cooking
  • 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil For searing
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper
  • 1 large Onion (diced) Forms a savory foundation
  • 4 cloves Garlic (minced) For flavor
  • 4 cups Beef broth Rich liquid base
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato paste Adds depth
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce For umami
  • 1 teaspoon Dried thyme Earthy flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Dried rosemary Fragrant note
  • 2 pieces Bay leaves Remove before serving
  • 3 Carrots Carrots Sweet and tender
  • 3 pounds Potatoes (Yukon Gold preferred) Holds shape
  • 2 stalks Celery Adds crunch
  • 1/4 cup All-purpose flour For thickening
  • 1/2 cup Cold water For slurry
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley (chopped) For garnish
  • 1 loaf Crusty bread For soaking up gravy

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Begin by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the beef cubes until browned on all sides.
  2. Once the beef is browned, transfer it to your slow cooker. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and all the remaining ingredients except the flour and cold water. Stir to combine.
Cooking
  1. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for about 4 hours. Check for tenderness; the beef should be fork-tender.
  2. About 30 minutes before serving, mix the flour with cold water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the stew to thicken it, then cover and continue cooking.
  3. Remove the bay leaves before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Notes

Leftover beef stew can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the stew in portions using freezer-friendly bags; it can keep for about 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. To enhance flavors, consider letting it sit overnight in the refrigerator.