Slow Cooker Beef and Vegetable Stew

Slow Cooker Beef and Vegetable Stew is the ultimate comfort food—hearty, nourishing, and incredibly easy to prepare. This classic stew brings together tender chunks of beef, wholesome vegetables, and a rich, savory broth that slowly develops deep flavor over hours of gentle cooking. Using a slow cooker allows the ingredients to meld beautifully, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth beef and perfectly cooked vegetables without constant supervision.

This recipe is ideal for busy days, family dinners, or cozy weekends when you want something warm and satisfying waiting for you. It’s a timeless, home-style dish that feels familiar yet always comforting. Nutritious, filling, and packed with flavor, slow cooker beef and vegetable stew is a meal that truly feeds both body and soul.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it perfectly combines comfort, simplicity, and deep, satisfying flavor. There’s something incredibly reassuring about knowing that a handful of wholesome ingredients can slowly transform into a rich, hearty meal with almost no effort. The slow cooker does all the work, gently tenderizing the beef and allowing the vegetables to soak up every bit of the savory broth.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This is a must-try dish because it’s perfect for all skill levels and occasions. It’s wholesome, budget-friendly, and endlessly customizable. Plus, slow cooking guarantees tender beef and rich flavor every single time.

Recipe Overview

• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: American / Comfort Food
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 7–8 hours (low) or 4–5 hours (high)
• Total Time: About 8 hours
• Servings: 6
• Calories: Approximately 420 calories per serving

Ingredients

For the Beef and Vegetable Stew

• 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into chunks
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for browning)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 carrots, sliced
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup frozen peas or green beans
• 3 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 2 bay leaves

Cooking Directions

Prepare the Ingredients
Season and coat the beef, chop vegetables, and prepare the slow cooker.

Slow Cook
Combine everything and cook low and slow until tender.

Finish and Serve
Adjust seasoning and enjoy warm.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Season beef with salt and pepper, then toss with flour.
Step 2: (Optional) Brown beef in olive oil over medium-high heat for added flavor.
Step 3: Place beef into the slow cooker.
Step 4: Add onion, garlic, carrots, celery, potatoes, and peas.
Step 5: Stir in beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves.
Step 6: Cover and cook on LOW for 7–8 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours.
Step 7: Remove bay leaves, taste, and adjust seasoning before serving.

How to Serve

Serve hot in deep bowls with crusty bread, dinner rolls, or over mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley for extra freshness and color.

Recipe Tips

• Browning beef adds extra depth but isn’t required
• Cut vegetables evenly for consistent cooking
• Don’t lift the lid while cooking
• Thicken stew with a cornstarch slurry if needed

Variations

Hearty Root Vegetable Stew
Add parsnips, turnips, or sweet potatoes for extra heartiness.

Red Wine Beef Stew
Replace 1 cup of broth with red wine for deeper flavor.

Spicy Beef Stew
Add chili flakes or paprika for gentle heat.

Low-Carb Version
Replace potatoes with cauliflower or turnips.

Herb-Forward Stew
Add fresh rosemary and thyme at the end for brighter flavor.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigeration
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezing
Freeze cooled stew for up to 3 months.

Reheating
Reheat on stovetop, microwave, or slow cooker until hot.

Special Equipment Needed

• Slow cooker (6-quart recommended)
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Beef and Vegetable Stew is a classic, comforting dish that never goes out of style. With tender beef, nourishing vegetables, and a deeply flavorful broth, it’s the perfect hands-off meal for busy days or cozy evenings. Simple, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable, this stew is a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.