Easy Slow Cooker Beef Stew You’ll Crave All Winter

When the temperatures drop and you’re craving something warm, hearty, and deeply comforting, nothing hits the spot quite like a big bowl of homemade beef stew. And this easy slow cooker beef stew recipe might just be the best you’ve ever tried. Tender chunks of beef, perfectly cooked vegetables, and a rich, savory broth come together effortlessly with the help of your trusty slow cooker.

This one-pot wonder is perfect for busy weeknights, lazy Sundays, or whenever you want a meal that tastes like you’ve been cooking all day—without actually spending hours in the kitchen. It’s flavorful, filling, and the leftovers taste even better the next day. You’ll love how easy this is!

Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

To make this mouthwatering stew, you’ll need some staple ingredients that are probably already in your pantry or fridge. This is a flexible recipe, so feel free to customize it based on what you have on hand.

• Beef Stew Meat: Chuck roast is your best bet. It’s marbled with fat, which breaks down beautifully in the slow cooker, creating ultra-tender bites.
• Carrots: Peeled and sliced into thick coins. They add a touch of sweetness and a pop of color.
• Potatoes: Use waxy potatoes like Yukon Golds or red potatoes. They hold their shape better and won’t get mushy.
• Onion & Garlic: These aromatics build the flavor base of your stew. Don’t skip them!
• Tomato Paste: Adds richness and a slight tang that balances the broth.
• Worcestershire Sauce: A secret weapon for deep, savory flavor.
• Beef Broth: Go for low-sodium if you want to control the salt level.
• Dried Thyme & Rosemary: These herbs add cozy, earthy notes.
• Bay Leaf: Just one does the trick, infusing the stew with subtle complexity.
• Olive Oil: Used to brown the beef before slow cooking.
• Salt & Pepper: For seasoning the beef and bringing everything to life.
• Flour or Cornstarch: For thickening the broth, if desired.
• Frozen Peas: Stirred in at the end for color, sweetness, and extra veggies.
• Fresh Parsley: For a burst of color and freshness right before serving.

Instructions

1. Prep and Sear the Beef
Start by tossing your beef chunks with flour, salt, and black pepper. This step not only seasons the meat but also helps thicken the stew later.

Heat a tablespoon or two of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, sear the beef in batches until each side is golden brown—about 3–4 minutes per side. You’re not cooking it through here; just building that irresistible flavor base. This step is optional, but it adds so much depth you’ll be glad you did it.

Transfer the browned beef directly into your slow cooker.

2. Layer the Ingredients
Add in your chopped carrots, diced potatoes, onion, minced garlic, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Pour the beef broth over everything and give it a good stir to mix.

You’ll already be smelling something amazing, and it hasn’t even started cooking yet!

3. Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for 7 to 8 hours or high for 4 to 5 hours. This low-and-slow method allows the beef to become incredibly tender and lets all the flavors meld together beautifully.

4. Thicken the Stew (Optional)
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, you can thicken the stew if you’d like a more gravy-like consistency. Just mix two tablespoons of cornstarch or flour with two tablespoons of cold water to form a slurry. Stir it into the stew and let it cook uncovered for the final 30 minutes.

At this point, toss in your frozen peas—they only need a few minutes to heat through and retain their bright green color.

5. Serve & Enjoy!
Before serving, don’t forget to remove the bay leaf. Ladle the stew into bowls and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a final touch of color and brightness. Serve hot with crusty bread, rice, or even mashed potatoes. You’ll be going back for seconds (and maybe thirds).

Tips and Tricks

• Brown the Meat: It’s optional, but highly recommended. Browning adds caramelized notes and brings out the beef’s natural flavor.
• Pre-Chop the Night Before: Want an even easier morning? Chop all your veggies and prep the beef the night before. Store them in the fridge, and dump everything into the crockpot the next morning.
• Add Greens: Toss in chopped spinach or kale during the last 15 minutes for an extra nutrient boost.
• Boost the Umami: A teaspoon of soy sauce, a dash of balsamic vinegar, or a spoonful of miso paste can take the flavor to the next level.

Save

Storage Instructions

This stew is the gift that keeps on giving. It stores well and tastes even better the next day.

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Or, microwave individual servings in 1-minute bursts, stirring in between, until hot.

Serving Suggestions

Slow cooker beef stew is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to round it out or stretch it further, here are some tasty pairings:

• Crusty sourdough bread or baguette slices for dipping.
• A scoop of creamy mashed potatoes under the stew.
• Buttery egg noodles for a pasta twist.
• A simple green salad with vinaigrette to balance the richness.

Possible Variations

This recipe is versatile and easy to tweak. Make it your own with these fun variations:

• Spicy Beef Stew: Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a splash of hot sauce.
• Mushroom Lover’s Stew: Sauté mushrooms and add them in with the veggies.
• Garlic Butter Finish: Stir in a spoonful of garlic butter just before serving for a luxurious finish.
• Low-Carb Option: Swap out the potatoes for cauliflower or turnips.
• Gluten-Free: Use cornstarch instead of flour for thickening.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I skip browning the beef?
Yes, but browning adds a delicious depth of flavor that makes a big difference.

What’s the best cut of beef for stew?
Chuck roast is ideal—it’s affordable and becomes meltingly tender when slow-cooked.

Can I make this without potatoes?
Absolutely! Add more carrots or use turnips, parsnips, or cauliflower instead.

How can I prevent a watery stew?
If your stew ends up thinner than you like, either reduce the broth slightly at the start or cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to let it thicken naturally.

Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, but add them in the final hour of cooking to avoid overcooking and mushiness.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Brown the beef on sauté mode, then pressure cook everything on high for 35 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release.

What should I serve with beef stew?
Crusty bread, mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or a fresh salad all pair beautifully.

The Ultimate Cozy Dinner

This easy slow cooker beef stew is the kind of meal that makes your whole house smell amazing and your family come running to the table. It’s cozy, nourishing, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a comforting dinner to enjoy on a chilly evening, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Give it a try and savor every hearty bite—you deserve it!