Crockpot Beef Stew is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for those chilly days when you crave a hearty, satisfying meal. This easy, slow-cooked dish is packed with tender chunks of beef, colorful vegetables, and aromatic herbs, all simmered to perfection in a rich, savory broth. The beauty of using a crockpot lies in its ability to infuse the ingredients with flavor while you go about your day, resulting in a stew that’s not only delicious but also incredibly convenient. Serve it with crusty bread for dipping or over fluffy mashed potatoes for a truly comforting dinner that the whole family will love!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional, for added color and sweetness)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: In a large bowl, season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. You can also dust them with a little flour if desired, for extra thickness in the stew.
- Layer the Ingredients: In the crockpot, layer the diced potatoes, carrots, and onions at the bottom. Add the minced garlic on top, followed by the seasoned beef cubes.
- Mix the Broth: In a separate bowl, combine the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Pour this mixture over the beef and vegetables in the crockpot.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and the flavors meld together.
- Add Peas: If using frozen peas, stir them in during the last 30 minutes of cooking to heat through.
- Serve: Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the stew into bowls and enjoy with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.
This Crockpot Beef Stew is a warm, flavorful dish that brings family together around the table, offering a taste of home-cooked goodness with every bite!