Crock Pot Beef Stew

Crock Pot Beef Stew is a hearty slow cooker recipe made with tender beef, potatoes, carrots, celery, and a rich savory broth simmered to perfection. This easy beef stew recipe is prepared with simple pantry ingredients including fire-roasted tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and herbs for deep flavor and a thick, comforting texture. Perfect for cold weather meals, family dinners, and meal prep, this slow cooker beef stew delivers tender meat and vegetables in every bite. Ideal for anyone searching for crock pot recipes, beef stew slow cooker, easy dinner ideas, or homemade comfort food, this dish is a classic one-pot meal that requires minimal effort and delivers maximum flavor.

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons olive oil (canola or vegetable oil also works)
• 2 pounds beef stew meat
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 cups beef stock (low or no sodium optional)
• 1 (14.5 oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
• 1.5 pounds baby potatoes, halved or quartered
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3–4 celery stalks, diced
• 1 cup baby carrots
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 bay leaf

To thicken the stew:

• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons water or beef stock

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet (or use the sauté function of your slow cooker if available).
2. In a bowl, coat beef stew meat with flour, salt, and pepper.
3. Sear the beef in batches until browned on all sides, then transfer to a 6-quart crock pot.
4. Add beef stock, fire-roasted diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and balsamic vinegar. Stir well.
5. Add potatoes, onion, celery, and carrots.
6. Sprinkle in oregano and minced garlic, then add the bay leaf. Mix gently.
7. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours without opening the lid during cooking.
8. In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch with water (or beef stock) to make a slurry.
9. Stir the slurry into the stew, then switch to high heat and cook for another 30 minutes until thickened.
10. Remove bay leaf, stir, and serve warm.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This slow cooker beef stew is rich, hearty, and packed with tender beef and vegetables simmered in a flavorful broth. It requires minimal effort, making it ideal for busy days while still delivering deep, slow-cooked flavor. Perfect for cozy family dinners and meal prep.

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Tips

• Browning the beef first adds deeper flavor to the stew.
• Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to keep the meat tender.
• Cut vegetables into similar sizes for even cooking.
• For thicker stew, adjust cornstarch slightly if needed.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Replace beef stock with chicken stock in a pinch.
• Add peas or green beans in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Swap baby potatoes with sweet potatoes for a different flavor.
• Use tomato paste instead of canned tomatoes for a richer base.
• Add a pinch of smoked paprika for extra depth.

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FAQs

Can I cook this on high instead of low?
Yes, cook on high for about 4–5 hours, but low heat gives more tender meat.

Can I skip browning the beef?
Yes, but browning improves flavor and texture.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container.

Can I freeze beef stew?
Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months.

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Serving

Serve hot in bowls with crusty bread, rice, or mashed potatoes. It also pairs well with a simple green salad for balance.

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Suggestions

• Top with fresh parsley before serving for a fresh finish.
• Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce when reheating for extra flavor.
• Serve in bread bowls for a comforting presentation.
• Pair with buttered toast or garlic bread for a complete meal.