Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Winter is the best season to pull out my reliable slow cooker. But honestly, even when we have a heat wave, this beef stew recipe for the slow cooker is excellent for dinner. Stews are an easy, winning weeknight meal, no matter the season! And having a slow cooker on hand to cook beef slow and tender while I do other things is a lifesaver. I can run errands, clean the house, or work on my blog while dinner cooks to perfection. See the convenience of modern appliances? Such a time-saver!

Recipe Ingredients

How to Slow Cook Beef Stew

Season stew beef with salt and pepper to thoroughly cover all sides. Brown Meat – Heat the oil in an oven-safe Dutch oven pan over medium heat. Add the stew beef and brown well, turning once, 2-3 minutes per side. Avoid overcrowding the pan, cooking in batches if necessary. (Photo 1) Seasonings – Add onions, ginger, garlic, thyme, smoked paprika, and bay leaf to the skillet. Stir for 2-3 minutes until onions become translucent. (Photo 2) Liquid – Add tomato paste and bouillon. Then, stir for another minute, and add broth (or water) to the skillet, scraping the sides to get all that good flavor into the stew. Bring to a boil, remove, and pour in the slow cooker. (Photos 3-4) Vegetables – Throw carrots, potatoes, mushrooms, and peas in the slow cooker. Add salt to taste. Slow Cook – Cover and set on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Remove and garnish with parsley. Serve with your favorite bread.

Recipe Variations

Tips and Tricks

Make-Ahead Instructions

Slow-cooker beef stew makes weeknight meal planning a cinch! You can make this deliciousness ahead, let it cool, and refrigerate it for a couple of days or freeze it for 3-4 months. It tastes even better the next day.

Serving and Storage Instructions

I love this comforting stew straight from the slow cooker alone or over a bowl of white rice or garlic-mashed red potatoes! Leftovers stay good in the refrigerator for up to three days or in the freezer for three months in an airtight container. Reheat the stew stovetop in a pan over medium heat or individual portions in the microwave.

What to Serve With Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Slow-cooker beef stew is a nourishing one-dish meal! But a side of easy dinner rolls, homemade garlic bread, or easy buttermilk drop biscuits soak up the flavorful gravy. Wine pairing: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Malbec all taste great with beef stew.