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The Ultimate Crockpot Beef Stew Recipe: A Deep Dive into Cozy Comfort

The Ultimate Crockpot Beef Stew Recipe: A Deep Dive into Cozy Comfort
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There’s nothing quite like coming home to the comforting aroma of slow-cooked beef stew simmering away all day. This hearty dish is packed with tender chunks of beef, wholesome veggies, and a rich, savory broth — all made with simple, everyday ingredients. It’s the perfect meal for chilly evenings or cozy family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

  • 2 pounds boneless stewing beef cubes (or chuck roast, cut into cubes)

  • ½ medium onion, chopped

  • 6 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 pound Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced (large bite-size pieces)

  • 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into large bite-size pieces

  • 3 sticks celery, chopped

  • 3 cups beef broth

  • 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste (for rich flavor)

  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • Black pepper, to taste

  • 3 bay leaves

  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Instructions

1. Brown the Beef
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add half the beef cubes and sear on all sides until browned. Transfer to a plate, then repeat with the remaining beef and olive oil. Transfer all the browned beef (and any juices) to your slow cooker.

2. Sauté the Aromatics
Add the chopped onion to the same skillet. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Transfer everything to the Crockpot.

3. Load the Crockpot
Add the potatoes, carrots, celery, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and bay leaves to the slow cooker. Stir well to combine.

4. Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook on LOW for 10 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and the vegetables are soft and flavorful.

5. (Optional) Thicken the Stew
For a thicker texture, mix 2 tablespoons cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water, then stir it into the stew. Let it cook for an additional 10–15 minutes until slightly thickened.

6. Serve and Enjoy
Remove bay leaves before serving. Serve hot with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort meal.

Notes

  • Sear for Flavor: Browning the beef adds deep, rich flavor — don’t skip this step!

  • Make It Ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

  • Add Herbs: Try adding a sprig of rosemary or thyme for extra aroma.

  • Thicker Option: Besides cornstarch, you can mash some of the potatoes right in the Crockpot to naturally thicken the broth.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://biteseason.com/the-ultimate-crockpot-beef-stew-recipe-a-deep-dive-into-cozy-comfort/

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