Slow Cooker Beef Stew – A Hearty and Flavorful Comfort Meal

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Few meals are as comforting as a warm bowl of slow cooker beef stew. This recipe is packed with tender chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth that makes every bite satisfying. Slow-cooked to perfection, this stew is an effortless way to prepare a delicious, home-cooked meal that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas.

Perfect for chilly days, this beef stew is a fantastic make-ahead dish that requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. Serve it with crusty bread, over mashed potatoes, or on its own for a complete and wholesome meal.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Beef Stew

  • Easy to Prepare – The slow cooker does most of the work, making it ideal for busy days.
  • Incredibly Flavorful – Cooking low and slow allows the flavors to develop beautifully.
  • Tender, Juicy Beef – The beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender as it simmers.
  • Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Ingredients

For the Beef:

  • 2 1/2 lbs beef chuck, boneless, cut into 1 1/2-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 teaspoons Italian seasoning

For the Stew:

  • 2 medium onions, chopped
  • 3 medium carrots, chopped
  • 2 stalks celery, chopped
  • 8 oz whole mushrooms
  • 2 large beef bouillon cubes
  • 1 (10 3/4-ounce) can condensed tomato soup
  • 1 1/2 cups water
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 2 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
  • 3/4 cup frozen peas

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  2. Add the beef cubes and toss to coat evenly, ensuring each piece is well covered.
  3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  4. Add the coated beef cubes and sear them on all sides until browned, about 5-7 minutes. This step locks in flavor and enhances the stew’s depth.

Step 2: Assemble the Stew in the Slow Cooker

  1. Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker.
  2. Add the chopped onions, carrots, celery, whole mushrooms, and beef bouillon cubes.
  3. Pour in the condensed tomato soup and water, stirring everything together to combine.
  4. Drop in the bay leaves for added depth of flavor.

Step 3: Slow Cook the Stew

  1. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for 8 hours. This long, slow simmering process will allow the beef to become incredibly tender.

Step 4: Add the Final Ingredients

  1. After 8 hours, remove the lid and add the chopped potatoes and frozen peas.
  2. Stir to distribute the ingredients evenly.
  3. Cover again and continue cooking on low for an additional 1-2 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender and the peas are heated through.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Remove the bay leaves and discard them.
  2. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
  3. Ladle the hot beef stew into bowls and serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

  • With Crusty Bread – Perfect for soaking up the rich broth.
  • Over Mashed Potatoes – Adds an extra layer of comfort.
  • With a Side Salad – A fresh, crisp salad balances out the hearty stew.
  • Topped with Fresh Herbs – Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerating:

  • Store leftover beef stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing:

  • Let the stew cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
  • Freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating:

  • Warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
  • If using a microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring in between.

Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Beef Stew

  • Sear the Beef First – Browning the meat before adding it to the slow cooker enhances the overall depth of flavor.
  • Use Starchy Potatoes – Russet potatoes hold up well in slow-cooked dishes.
  • Don’t Skip the Bay Leaves – They add a subtle but essential layer of flavor.
  • Low and Slow is Best – Cooking on low for a longer time ensures the most tender beef.
  • Adjust the Seasoning Before Serving – Taste the stew before serving and add extra salt or pepper if needed.

Final Thoughts

This slow cooker beef stew is the perfect dish to warm up your home and your soul. Rich, hearty, and packed with delicious ingredients, it’s a comforting meal that requires minimal effort but delivers big on flavor.

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week, or preparing a cozy meal for a gathering, this beef stew will be a guaranteed hit. Try it once, and it just might become a staple in your kitchen.

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