Slow-Cooked Beef Stew with Vegetables

Why Slow-Cooked Beef Stew with Vegetables Is a Must-Try

If you’ve never made stew in a slow cooker before, this is the perfect recipe to start with. Here’s why it’s a favorite for so many home cooks:

Budget-friendly: You can use inexpensive cuts of beef and still get amazing results.
Hands-off cooking: Set it in the morning and come home to a ready meal.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what’s in your fridge.
Kid-friendly: Even picky eaters usually love the soft, flavorful chunks of meat and veggies.

This dish is ideal for busy weekdays, lazy Sundays, or even casual dinner parties with friends.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 6–8 hours (low) or 4–5 hours (high)
Serves: 6–8

✨ Ingredients

2 lbs (900g) beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch chunks
3 carrots, peeled and sliced
3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups beef broth
2 tbsp tomato paste
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp paprika
2 tbsp olive oil (optional, for searing)

Optional Add-ins:

1 cup peas or green beans (add in last hour)
1 bay leaf
Fresh parsley for garnish

🥄 Instructions

Step 1: Sear the Beef (Optional but adds flavor)

Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
Add beef chunks in batches. Sear 2–3 minutes per side until browned.
Transfer seared beef to your slow cooker.

Step 2: Add the Ingredients

Add chopped carrots, potatoes, celery, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker.
Sprinkle with salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika.
Stir in tomato paste and sprinkle flour over the top.
Pour in beef broth and gently mix.

Step 3: Cook

Cover with the lid.
- Cook on Low for 6–8 hours
- Or on High for 4–5 hours
The beef should be fork-tender and veggies soft.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Serve hot with bread, rice, or your favorite sides.

🧊 Storage Tips

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers.
Reheat: Microwave in 1-minute intervals or reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water.

Health Benefits of Beef Stew

Not only is this dish comforting and tasty, but it’s also packed with nutrition:

Beef is rich in protein, iron, zinc, and B vitamins.
Carrots provide beta-carotene for healthy eyes.
Potatoes add energy-boosting carbohydrates and fiber.
Celery and onions help balance flavor and offer antioxidants.

You get a complete, balanced meal in just one bowl!

Tips for First-Time Slow Cooker Users

If this is your first slow-cooker adventure, don’t worry! Here are some tips to help you:

Don’t open the lid too often: Each time you do, heat escapes and slows the cooking process.
Layer smartly: Place root veggies at the bottom since they cook slower, then meat, then softer vegetables on top.
Don’t overfill: Fill your slow cooker only two-thirds full for best results.
Prep ahead: Chop veggies and meat the night before to save time in the morning.

Serving Suggestions

Take your stew to the next level with some of these serving ideas:

Stew + garlic toast: Dip crunchy garlic bread in the broth — yum!
Stew over mashed potatoes: Creamy and hearty.
Stew in a bread bowl: Restaurant-style presentation at home.
Top with cheese: A little shredded cheddar adds a melty bonus.

Slow-Cooked Beef Stew for Special Occasions

This dish isn’t just for everyday meals — it’s also perfect for:
- Holiday dinners when you need something hearty and reliable.
- Potlucks where you want to bring a crowd-pleasing dish.
- New parents or friends in need — it reheats beautifully and feels like comfort in a bowl.
Just double the ingredients, use a larger slow cooker, and feed a small army with minimal effort!

Kid-Friendly Twist

Want to get the little ones excited for stew night?

Try this:
- Cut carrots into fun shapes using cookie cutters.
- Serve with cheese toast “boats” or mini biscuits.
- Let them help sprinkle parsley or shredded cheese on top.
Getting kids involved in serving can make them more likely to try and enjoy the dish!

Let’s Talk Leftovers

Leftovers might be the best part of this stew. The flavors get even better the next day!

Here’s what to do:
- Make stew pot pies: Spoon into ramekins, top with puff pastry, and bake.
- Turn into soup: Add more broth for a lighter, soupy version.
- Serve over pasta or rice: A new twist with a fresh texture.
Share Your Stew!

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Don’t forget to leave a comment below if you tried a fun variation, or let us know what your family thought of it!

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Slow-Cooked Beef Stew with Vegetables