Cookie Book
SoupsEasySoupsComfort Food

Hearty Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Tender chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and rich gravy—this comforting slow cooker stew practically cooks itself.

Prep Time
20 mins
Cook Time
8 hours
Servings
8 servings
Difficulty
Easy
C
Chef Michael Brown
January 24, 2026
4.5(4 reviews)
Hearty Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Nothing says comfort like a bowl of hearty beef stew. This slow cooker version lets you prep in the morning and come home to a house filled with amazing aromas and dinner ready to serve. The long, slow cooking makes the beef incredibly tender.

Ingredients

  • 2.5 lbs (1.1 kg) beef chuck, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
  • ¼ cup (30g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups (960ml) beef broth
  • 1 can (6 oz / 170g) tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 lb (450g) Yukon gold potatoes, cubed
  • 4 large carrots, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 3 stalks celery, sliced
  • 1 cup (150g) frozen peas (added at end)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. 1

    In a large bowl, toss the beef cubes with flour, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

  2. 2

    Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches, about 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer to the slow cooker.

  3. 3

    In the same skillet, sauté the onion for 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Transfer to slow cooker.

  4. 4

    Add beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaves to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.

  5. 5

    Add potatoes, carrots, and celery to the slow cooker. Stir everything together.

  6. 6

    Cover and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours, until the beef is fork-tender.

  7. 7

    About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas.

  8. 8

    Remove bay leaves, taste and adjust seasoning. Serve in warm bowls garnished with fresh parsley.

Bowl of beef stew
Rich, hearty, and incredibly satisfying

Chef's Tips

  • Prep all ingredients before you start cooking for a smoother experience.
  • Taste as you go and adjust seasoning to your preference.
  • Don't overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed for best results.
  • Let meat rest after cooking to keep it juicy and tender.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, use a microwave at 50% power or warm in a covered pan over medium-low heat until heated through. For best texture, avoid reheating more than once.

Nutrition Information

Calories: Approximately 350-450 per serving
Protein: 15-25g depending on ingredients
Carbohydrates: 30-50g
Fat: 12-20g
Fiber: 3-6g
Sodium: 400-600mg (adjust salt to taste)

Reviews

H
HomeChef_Amy

Absolutely delicious! My family loved it. Will definitely make again.

January 15, 2026
F
FoodLover_John

Easy to follow instructions. Turned out perfect on my first try!

January 16, 2026
B
BakingQueen

The flavors are incredible. This is now a household favorite.

January 17, 2026
C
CookingDad

Made this for a dinner party and got so many compliments!

January 18, 2026
SoupsComfort FoodHealthy