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Classic Slow Cooker Beef Stew

There’s nothing better than coming home to the mouthwatering aroma of Classic Slow Cooker Beef Stew simmering away, ready to warm you up after a long day. This hearty dish features tender beef, perfectly cooked vegetables, and a rich, savory broth that deepens in flavor as it slow cooks. It’s the perfect no-fuss comfort food for busy weeknights, lazy Sundays, or whenever you need a cozy meal. With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, this stew is guaranteed to be a family favorite!

  • Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups beef broth
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 2 bay leaves
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra depth)

Instructions

  • Prep the beef: Pat dry the beef cubes and toss them in flour, shaking off any excess.
  • Sear for flavor: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the beef on all sides (about 2-3 minutes per batch). Transfer to the slow cooker.
  • Layer the veggies: Add carrots, potatoes, onions, celery, and garlic to the slow cooker.
  • Mix the broth: In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, thyme, and smoked paprika. Pour over the beef and vegetables.
  • Add bay leaves: Place bay leaves on top. Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours, until beef is fork-tender.
  • Final touches: Remove bay leaves and stir before serving. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  • Serve & enjoy: Ladle into bowls and serve with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.

Notes

  • For a thicker stew, mash a few potatoes into the broth before serving.
  • To add more depth of flavor, stir in a splash of balsamic vinegar or a teaspoon of soy sauce.
  • Leftovers taste even better the next day! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Author: Nina
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 hours (low) or 5 hours (high)
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 350
  • Sodium: 850mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 30g