Crock-Pot Beef Stew
A hearty and comforting slow-cooked beef stew featuring tender chunks of beef, carrots, potatoes, and onions, all infused with rich flavors of garlic, Worcestershire, and paprika. Ideal for family dinners and chilly evenings, this dish offers a savory, melt-in-your-mouth experience with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the beef in the crock-pot.
- Mix the flour, salt, and pepper together.
- Pour the flour mixture over the beef.
- Stir to coat the meat evenly with the flour mixture.
- Add the remaining ingredients: beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, bay leaf, paprika, carrots, potatoes, onions, celery, and Kitchen Bouquet if using.
- Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Cover and cook on low for 10 to 12 hours or on high for 4 to 6 hours.
- Stir the stew thoroughly before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the beef in a skillet before adding it to the crock-pot. You can substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth for a lighter version. If you want to add more vegetables, peas or green beans work well. Adjust the spices according to your taste, and for a thicker stew, add a cornstarch slurry in the last hour of cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the beef stew with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables complement the dish well. This stew pairs beautifully with Steak A La Genevieve for a comforting feast. Consider garnishing with fresh parsley for color and added freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover beef stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or use the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until heated through. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crock-Pot Beef Stew contains roughly 1073 calories, with 24g protein, 170g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (187% of the Daily Value), iron (155% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (135% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1033mg per serving (45% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other cuts of beef for this stew?
Yes, while beef chuck is ideal for stews due to its marbling, you can use other cuts like brisket or round. Just be mindful that leaner cuts may require less cooking time and could become dry if overcooked.
What can I do if the stew is too thin?
If your stew turns out too thin, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry and stir it into the stew during the last hour of cooking. This will help thicken the sauce without altering the flavor.
How can I make this stew more spicy?
To add heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also add a splash of hot sauce to taste. Just start with a small amount, as you can always add more but can't take it out once added.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).