Name: Easy Homemade Beef Stew for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Ingredients: 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into cubes; 3 carrots, sliced; 3 potatoes, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups beef broth; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

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Easy Homemade Beef Stew for Cozy Nights 🥘🔥✨

1. Introduction

If you’re searching for a comforting and hearty beef stew recipe to warm your soul during chilly evenings, look no further! This homemade beef stew is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender chunks of beef with flavorful vegetables and rich broth, cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. Whether you’re a busy parent or simply craving a cozy night in, this slow cooker beef stew is easy to prepare, delicious, and perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

2. Ingredients for a Hearty Beef Stew

2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
3 large carrots, sliced
3 stalks celery, sliced
1 large onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
4 cups beef broth
1 cup red wine (optional for deeper flavor)
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
2 bay leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparing the Best Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Prepare the Beef and Vegetables

Start by seasoned the beef chunks with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the beef pieces until browned on all sides—this enhances flavor. Remove from skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent.

Assemble the Beef Stew in the Slow Cooker

Transfer the browned beef to your slow cooker. Add the sautéed onions and garlic, along with carrots, celery, potatoes, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, and beef broth. If you prefer a richer taste, pour in the red wine. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.

Cook the Beef Stew

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for about 4 hours. The beef should be tender and the vegetables soft. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed before serving.

4. Perfect Storage Tips for Leftover Beef Stew

Store any leftover hearty beef stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the stew in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.

5. Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Homemade Beef Stew

Serve this cozy beef stew with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up the flavorful broth. For a mass appeal, pair it with a simple side salad or steamed greens. To add a creamy touch, consider topping with freshly chopped parsley or grated cheese. Looking for more hearty pasta ideas? Check out this creamy Parmesan spinach mushroom pasta skillet.

6. Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Beef Stew Recipe

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Absolutely! While chuck roast is ideal for its tenderness and flavor, you can substitute with brisket or round beef, though cooking times may vary.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, just ensure your beef broth and other ingredients are gluten-free. Most store-bought beef broths are gluten-free, but double-check labels.

Can I make this beef stew in a pressure cooker?

Definitely. Use your pressure cooker to cut down cooking time—about 35 minutes under high pressure typically yields tender beef and flavorful vegetables.

How long does it take to prepare this hearty beef stew?

The active prep takes around 20 minutes, and cooking in the slow cooker is 7-8 hours on low or 4 hours on high, making it perfect for making ahead of time.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

Enhance your cooking experience with these fantastic tools:

Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer – Great for reheating leftovers or making crispy side dishes to serve alongside your stew.
T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set – This durable cookware set will help you sear and sauté ingredients easily.
Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker – Perfect for slow cooking large batches of hearty beef stew effortlessly.

8. Tips for a Perfect and Flavorful Beef Stew

Use high-quality beef and fresh vegetables for the best taste. Browning the meat thoroughly and simmering it slowly extracts maximum flavor. Feel free to add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for added depth. Adjust the seasoning to your preference, and enjoy a bowl of beautifully cooked slow cooker beef stew.

9. Conclusion

This beef stew recipe is your go-to comfort meal for cozy nights. It’s easy to prepare, flavorful, and customizable to suit your taste. With simple ingredients and hands-off cooking, you’ll have a hearty, delicious dish that warms both your table and your heart. Don’t forget to share your delightful results and explore more tasty recipes on Meals Mom.

Easy Homemade Beef Stew for Cozy Nights