Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Slow Cooker Beef Stew is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly days when you crave something hearty and warm. This classic dish features tender chunks of beef slow-cooked with potatoes, carrots, celery, and onions in a rich, savory broth. The slow cooker allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a deliciously satisfying meal with minimal effort. Ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, this beef stew is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 3 celery stalks, sliced
• 4 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 cup frozen peas
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the beef: In a large bowl, toss the beef stew meat with the flour, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
2. Brown the beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the coated beef in batches and brown on all sides. Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker.
3. Deglaze the skillet: If using, pour the red wine into the skillet to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Pour the deglazed liquid into the slow cooker. (If not using wine, you can deglaze with a bit of beef broth.)
4. Add the vegetables: Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and potatoes to the slow cooker.
5. Add the broth and seasonings: Pour the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce into the slow cooker. Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and bay leaves. Stir to combine.
6. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef and vegetables are tender.
7. Add peas: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas. Cover and cook until heated through.
8. Serve: Remove the bay leaves and discard. Garnish the stew with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your Slow Cooker Beef Stew as a comforting and hearty meal that’s perfect for warming up on a cold day, delivering tender beef and flavorful vegetables in every bite.