Slow Cooker Hearty Beef Veggie Stew for Comfort

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- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes - 4 medium carrots, sliced into thick rounds - 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch pieces - 1 large onion, chopped - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces - 4 cups beef broth - 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained - 2 tablespoons tomato paste I love the base of this stew. The beef chuck gives it a rich flavor. The carrots and potatoes add both sweetness and heartiness. The green beans bring a nice crunch. - 2 teaspoons dried thyme - 1 teaspoon dried rosemary - 1 bay leaf - Salt and pepper to taste Seasonings are key. Dried thyme adds earthiness. Dried rosemary gives a fresh taste. The bay leaf enhances the stew while cooking. - 2 tablespoons olive oil for searing - Optional garnishes like fresh parsley I always sear the beef in olive oil first. This step locks in flavor and gives a lovely brown color. Fresh parsley as a garnish brightens up the dish. It’s a simple touch that looks great. Searing the beef is key to great flavor. It helps build a rich, deep taste. Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the beef cubes. Sear them for about 5-7 minutes. Make sure they are browned on all sides. This step locks in juices and adds a nice crust. Remember, browning the beef cubes matters. It adds layers of flavor that make the stew taste amazing. Now it’s time to layer your ingredients in the slow cooker. Place the browned beef in first. Next, add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, and cut green beans. Stir everything together gently. This mix ensures every bite is filled with flavor. For the sauce, combine beef broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste in a bowl. Add dried thyme, dried rosemary, and the bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then mix well. Make sure the tomato paste is fully dissolved before pouring. Once your sauce is ready, pour it over the beef and veggies. Ensure all ingredients are submerged in the liquid. This helps the flavors meld beautifully as they cook. You can choose between low and high cooking settings. Cooking on low for 8 hours gives the best tenderness. If you're short on time, cook on high for about 4 hours. Either way, the beef will become tender and the veggies soft. Keep the lid on during cooking. This keeps all the steam inside, making your stew rich and hearty. Enjoy the delicious smells wafting through your kitchen as it cooks! To make your stew even better, add extra herbs. You can try adding fresh parsley or a sprig of thyme. For a kick, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika. These spices can bring new life to your stew. If you want a thicker stew, there are a few easy tricks. You can mix a little cornstarch with cold water and stir it in. Let it cook for a bit longer to thicken. Another way is to mash some of the potatoes in the pot. This will create a nice, creamy texture without adding extra steps. Pair your hearty beef veggie stew with crusty bread. It’s perfect for mopping up that rich broth. A fresh side salad with a light vinaigrette also works well for balance. For a nice touch, garnish each bowl with fresh parsley. A drizzle of olive oil can make it shine. Use colorful bowls to make the dish pop. A well-presented meal looks inviting and makes everyone want to dig in. One common mistake is overcrowding the slow cooker. If you add too many ingredients, they won’t cook evenly. Stick to the recipe amounts for the best results. Another mistake is skipping the searing step. Browning the beef first adds rich flavor. This step is key for a deep, comforting taste. Take the time to sear the beef, and you will taste the difference. {{image_4}} You can easily change the veggies in this stew. If you have other favorites, try them! Sweet potatoes or parsnips work well. You can also add bell peppers for a pop of color. Just remember to cut them into similar sizes. This helps everything cook evenly. For beef, you can use other cuts besides chuck. Brisket or round can be great choices too. Each cut offers its own flavor and texture. Just make sure to adjust cooking times if you switch cuts. To make a gluten-free stew, choose gluten-free broth. Most store-bought options work well. You can also skip the tomato paste if it has gluten. This keeps the dish safe for those with gluten allergies. For a lighter version, use lean cuts of beef. You can also add more vegetables and less meat. This way, you keep the stew hearty without all the calories. Want to add a global touch? Try spices like cumin or paprika. These can give your stew a warm flavor. You can also add a bit of chili powder for some heat! Incorporating regional ingredients can also change the flavor. For an Italian twist, add some diced zucchini and basil. Or, for a Mexican spin, toss in corn and cilantro. Each option brings a new taste to your comforting stew. To store leftover stew in the fridge, let it cool first. Transfer the stew to an airtight container. This keeps moisture in and air out. Label the container with the date. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. To maintain flavor and freshness, reheat only what you plan to eat. This stops the stew from breaking down too much. To properly freeze stew, let it cool completely. Pour the stew into freezer-safe bags or containers. Leave some space at the top for expansion. Seal tightly and label with the date. You can freeze it for up to three months. For reheating once thawed, place it in a pot over low heat. Stir often until it is heated through. You can also use a microwave. Just be sure to stir it halfway through. In the fridge, the stew lasts about three days if stored well. In the freezer, it can be kept for three months. After thawing, use it within three days for the best taste. Always check for any off smells or changes in texture before eating. Yes, you can use frozen beef in this stew. Just remember a few tips: - Thaw first: If you can, thaw the beef in the fridge overnight. This helps it cook evenly. - Sear it: Searing frozen beef can be tricky. Cook it on a lower heat, and make sure it browns well. - Adjust time: Add an extra hour to the cooking time if using frozen beef. Check for tenderness before serving. Using frozen beef can make this stew ready when you are. It saves time and still tastes great. Making this stew ahead can save you time later. Here are the best ways to prep: - Prep veggies: Chop all your vegetables a day before. Store them in the fridge in a sealed bag. - Brown the meat: Sear the beef a day ahead. Cool it and store it in the fridge. - Mix the sauce: Combine the broth, tomatoes, and seasonings. Store this mix in the fridge too. On the day you want to serve it, layer all the ingredients in your slow cooker. Then, just set it to cook! If your stew ends up watery, don’t worry. Here are some quick solutions to thicken it: - Cornstarch slurry: Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir this into the stew and let it cook for a few more minutes. - Add potatoes: Mash a few potatoes from the stew and mix them back in. This naturally thickens the broth. - Reduce liquid: Remove the lid and cook on high for another 30 minutes to let some liquid evaporate. These tricks will help you achieve the perfect thickness for your hearty stew. In this post, we covered how to create a delicious slow-cooked beef stew. We discussed key ingredients, like beef chuck and fresh veggies, that enhance flavor. I shared step-by-step instructions for preparation and cooking. You can customize the recipe with spices and different veggies. Remember to store leftovers properly to keep them fresh. Slow-cooked beef stew is easy and allows for personal twists. Enjoy making it your own!

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When the chill of winter hits, nothing warms the soul quite like a Slow Cooker Hearty Beef Veggie Stew. This dish is not only easy to make, but it’s full of rich flavors and comforting ingredients. You’ll find tender beef, fresh veggies, and warm spices simmering to perfection. Join me as I guide you through each step, tips, and tricks for crafting this seasonal favorite that will satisfy your family time and time again!

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Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes

– 4 medium carrots, sliced into thick rounds

– 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch pieces

– 1 large onion, chopped

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces

– 4 cups beef broth

– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained

– 2 tablespoons tomato paste

I love the base of this stew. The beef chuck gives it a rich flavor. The carrots and potatoes add both sweetness and heartiness. The green beans bring a nice crunch.

Seasonings

– 2 teaspoons dried thyme

– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

– 1 bay leaf

– Salt and pepper to taste

Seasonings are key. Dried thyme adds earthiness. Dried rosemary gives a fresh taste. The bay leaf enhances the stew while cooking.

Additional Items

– 2 tablespoons olive oil for searing

– Optional garnishes like fresh parsley

I always sear the beef in olive oil first. This step locks in flavor and gives a lovely brown color. Fresh parsley as a garnish brightens up the dish. It’s a simple touch that looks great.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Beef

Searing the beef is key to great flavor. It helps build a rich, deep taste. Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the beef cubes. Sear them for about 5-7 minutes. Make sure they are browned on all sides. This step locks in juices and adds a nice crust. Remember, browning the beef cubes matters. It adds layers of flavor that make the stew taste amazing.

Assembling the Slow Cooker

Now it’s time to layer your ingredients in the slow cooker. Place the browned beef in first. Next, add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, and cut green beans. Stir everything together gently. This mix ensures every bite is filled with flavor.

For the sauce, combine beef broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste in a bowl. Add dried thyme, dried rosemary, and the bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then mix well. Make sure the tomato paste is fully dissolved before pouring. Once your sauce is ready, pour it over the beef and veggies. Ensure all ingredients are submerged in the liquid. This helps the flavors meld beautifully as they cook.

Cooking Times and Settings

You can choose between low and high cooking settings. Cooking on low for 8 hours gives the best tenderness. If you’re short on time, cook on high for about 4 hours. Either way, the beef will become tender and the veggies soft. Keep the lid on during cooking. This keeps all the steam inside, making your stew rich and hearty. Enjoy the delicious smells wafting through your kitchen as it cooks!

Tips & Tricks

Flavor Enhancements

To make your stew even better, add extra herbs. You can try adding fresh parsley or a sprig of thyme. For a kick, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika. These spices can bring new life to your stew.

If you want a thicker stew, there are a few easy tricks. You can mix a little cornstarch with cold water and stir it in. Let it cook for a bit longer to thicken. Another way is to mash some of the potatoes in the pot. This will create a nice, creamy texture without adding extra steps.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your hearty beef veggie stew with crusty bread. It’s perfect for mopping up that rich broth. A fresh side salad with a light vinaigrette also works well for balance.

For a nice touch, garnish each bowl with fresh parsley. A drizzle of olive oil can make it shine. Use colorful bowls to make the dish pop. A well-presented meal looks inviting and makes everyone want to dig in.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is overcrowding the slow cooker. If you add too many ingredients, they won’t cook evenly. Stick to the recipe amounts for the best results.

Another mistake is skipping the searing step. Browning the beef first adds rich flavor. This step is key for a deep, comforting taste. Take the time to sear the beef, and you will taste the difference.

Variations

Customizing Ingredients

You can easily change the veggies in this stew. If you have other favorites, try them! Sweet potatoes or parsnips work well. You can also add bell peppers for a pop of color. Just remember to cut them into similar sizes. This helps everything cook evenly.

For beef, you can use other cuts besides chuck. Brisket or round can be great choices too. Each cut offers its own flavor and texture. Just make sure to adjust cooking times if you switch cuts.

Dietary Adjustments

To make a gluten-free stew, choose gluten-free broth. Most store-bought options work well. You can also skip the tomato paste if it has gluten. This keeps the dish safe for those with gluten allergies.

For a lighter version, use lean cuts of beef. You can also add more vegetables and less meat. This way, you keep the stew hearty without all the calories.

International Twists

Want to add a global touch? Try spices like cumin or paprika. These can give your stew a warm flavor. You can also add a bit of chili powder for some heat!

Incorporating regional ingredients can also change the flavor. For an Italian twist, add some diced zucchini and basil. Or, for a Mexican spin, toss in corn and cilantro. Each option brings a new taste to your comforting stew.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

To store leftover stew in the fridge, let it cool first. Transfer the stew to an airtight container. This keeps moisture in and air out. Label the container with the date. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. To maintain flavor and freshness, reheat only what you plan to eat. This stops the stew from breaking down too much.

Freezing Instructions

To properly freeze stew, let it cool completely. Pour the stew into freezer-safe bags or containers. Leave some space at the top for expansion. Seal tightly and label with the date. You can freeze it for up to three months. For reheating once thawed, place it in a pot over low heat. Stir often until it is heated through. You can also use a microwave. Just be sure to stir it halfway through.

Shelf Life

In the fridge, the stew lasts about three days if stored well. In the freezer, it can be kept for three months. After thawing, use it within three days for the best taste. Always check for any off smells or changes in texture before eating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen beef for this stew?

Yes, you can use frozen beef in this stew. Just remember a few tips:

– Thaw first: If you can, thaw the beef in the fridge overnight. This helps it cook evenly.

– Sear it: Searing frozen beef can be tricky. Cook it on a lower heat, and make sure it browns well.

– Adjust time: Add an extra hour to the cooking time if using frozen beef. Check for tenderness before serving.

Using frozen beef can make this stew ready when you are. It saves time and still tastes great.

How can I make this stew ahead of time?

Making this stew ahead can save you time later. Here are the best ways to prep:

– Prep veggies: Chop all your vegetables a day before. Store them in the fridge in a sealed bag.

– Brown the meat: Sear the beef a day ahead. Cool it and store it in the fridge.

– Mix the sauce: Combine the broth, tomatoes, and seasonings. Store this mix in the fridge too.

On the day you want to serve it, layer all the ingredients in your slow cooker. Then, just set it to cook!

What can I do if my stew is too watery?

If your stew ends up watery, don’t worry. Here are some quick solutions to thicken it:

– Cornstarch slurry: Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir this into the stew and let it cook for a few more minutes.

– Add potatoes: Mash a few potatoes from the stew and mix them back in. This naturally thickens the broth.

– Reduce liquid: Remove the lid and cook on high for another 30 minutes to let some liquid evaporate.

These tricks will help you achieve the perfect thickness for your hearty stew.

In this post, we covered how to create a delicious slow-cooked beef stew. We discussed key ingredients, like beef chuck and fresh veggies, that enhance flavor. I shared step-by-step instructions for preparation and cooking. You can customize the recipe with spices and different veggies. Remember to store leftovers properly to keep them fresh. Slow-cooked beef stew is easy and allows for personal twists. Enjoy making it your own!

- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes - 4 medium carrots, sliced into thick rounds - 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch pieces - 1 large onion, chopped - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces - 4 cups beef broth - 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained - 2 tablespoons tomato paste I love the base of this stew. The beef chuck gives it a rich flavor. The carrots and potatoes add both sweetness and heartiness. The green beans bring a nice crunch. - 2 teaspoons dried thyme - 1 teaspoon dried rosemary - 1 bay leaf - Salt and pepper to taste Seasonings are key. Dried thyme adds earthiness. Dried rosemary gives a fresh taste. The bay leaf enhances the stew while cooking. - 2 tablespoons olive oil for searing - Optional garnishes like fresh parsley I always sear the beef in olive oil first. This step locks in flavor and gives a lovely brown color. Fresh parsley as a garnish brightens up the dish. It’s a simple touch that looks great. Searing the beef is key to great flavor. It helps build a rich, deep taste. Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the beef cubes. Sear them for about 5-7 minutes. Make sure they are browned on all sides. This step locks in juices and adds a nice crust. Remember, browning the beef cubes matters. It adds layers of flavor that make the stew taste amazing. Now it’s time to layer your ingredients in the slow cooker. Place the browned beef in first. Next, add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, and cut green beans. Stir everything together gently. This mix ensures every bite is filled with flavor. For the sauce, combine beef broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste in a bowl. Add dried thyme, dried rosemary, and the bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then mix well. Make sure the tomato paste is fully dissolved before pouring. Once your sauce is ready, pour it over the beef and veggies. Ensure all ingredients are submerged in the liquid. This helps the flavors meld beautifully as they cook. You can choose between low and high cooking settings. Cooking on low for 8 hours gives the best tenderness. If you're short on time, cook on high for about 4 hours. Either way, the beef will become tender and the veggies soft. Keep the lid on during cooking. This keeps all the steam inside, making your stew rich and hearty. Enjoy the delicious smells wafting through your kitchen as it cooks! To make your stew even better, add extra herbs. You can try adding fresh parsley or a sprig of thyme. For a kick, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika. These spices can bring new life to your stew. If you want a thicker stew, there are a few easy tricks. You can mix a little cornstarch with cold water and stir it in. Let it cook for a bit longer to thicken. Another way is to mash some of the potatoes in the pot. This will create a nice, creamy texture without adding extra steps. Pair your hearty beef veggie stew with crusty bread. It’s perfect for mopping up that rich broth. A fresh side salad with a light vinaigrette also works well for balance. For a nice touch, garnish each bowl with fresh parsley. A drizzle of olive oil can make it shine. Use colorful bowls to make the dish pop. A well-presented meal looks inviting and makes everyone want to dig in. One common mistake is overcrowding the slow cooker. If you add too many ingredients, they won’t cook evenly. Stick to the recipe amounts for the best results. Another mistake is skipping the searing step. Browning the beef first adds rich flavor. This step is key for a deep, comforting taste. Take the time to sear the beef, and you will taste the difference. {{image_4}} You can easily change the veggies in this stew. If you have other favorites, try them! Sweet potatoes or parsnips work well. You can also add bell peppers for a pop of color. Just remember to cut them into similar sizes. This helps everything cook evenly. For beef, you can use other cuts besides chuck. Brisket or round can be great choices too. Each cut offers its own flavor and texture. Just make sure to adjust cooking times if you switch cuts. To make a gluten-free stew, choose gluten-free broth. Most store-bought options work well. You can also skip the tomato paste if it has gluten. This keeps the dish safe for those with gluten allergies. For a lighter version, use lean cuts of beef. You can also add more vegetables and less meat. This way, you keep the stew hearty without all the calories. Want to add a global touch? Try spices like cumin or paprika. These can give your stew a warm flavor. You can also add a bit of chili powder for some heat! Incorporating regional ingredients can also change the flavor. For an Italian twist, add some diced zucchini and basil. Or, for a Mexican spin, toss in corn and cilantro. Each option brings a new taste to your comforting stew. To store leftover stew in the fridge, let it cool first. Transfer the stew to an airtight container. This keeps moisture in and air out. Label the container with the date. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. To maintain flavor and freshness, reheat only what you plan to eat. This stops the stew from breaking down too much. To properly freeze stew, let it cool completely. Pour the stew into freezer-safe bags or containers. Leave some space at the top for expansion. Seal tightly and label with the date. You can freeze it for up to three months. For reheating once thawed, place it in a pot over low heat. Stir often until it is heated through. You can also use a microwave. Just be sure to stir it halfway through. In the fridge, the stew lasts about three days if stored well. In the freezer, it can be kept for three months. After thawing, use it within three days for the best taste. Always check for any off smells or changes in texture before eating. Yes, you can use frozen beef in this stew. Just remember a few tips: - Thaw first: If you can, thaw the beef in the fridge overnight. This helps it cook evenly. - Sear it: Searing frozen beef can be tricky. Cook it on a lower heat, and make sure it browns well. - Adjust time: Add an extra hour to the cooking time if using frozen beef. Check for tenderness before serving. Using frozen beef can make this stew ready when you are. It saves time and still tastes great. Making this stew ahead can save you time later. Here are the best ways to prep: - Prep veggies: Chop all your vegetables a day before. Store them in the fridge in a sealed bag. - Brown the meat: Sear the beef a day ahead. Cool it and store it in the fridge. - Mix the sauce: Combine the broth, tomatoes, and seasonings. Store this mix in the fridge too. On the day you want to serve it, layer all the ingredients in your slow cooker. Then, just set it to cook! If your stew ends up watery, don’t worry. Here are some quick solutions to thicken it: - Cornstarch slurry: Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir this into the stew and let it cook for a few more minutes. - Add potatoes: Mash a few potatoes from the stew and mix them back in. This naturally thickens the broth. - Reduce liquid: Remove the lid and cook on high for another 30 minutes to let some liquid evaporate. These tricks will help you achieve the perfect thickness for your hearty stew. In this post, we covered how to create a delicious slow-cooked beef stew. We discussed key ingredients, like beef chuck and fresh veggies, that enhance flavor. I shared step-by-step instructions for preparation and cooking. You can customize the recipe with spices and different veggies. Remember to store leftovers properly to keep them fresh. Slow-cooked beef stew is easy and allows for personal twists. Enjoy making it your own!

Slow Cooker Hearty Beef Veggie Stew

Warm up your kitchen with this Slow Cooker Hearty Beef Veggie Stew that's packed with flavor and tenderness! Using simple ingredients like beef chuck, carrots, potatoes, and green beans, this easy recipe delivers a wholesome meal perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. Discover how to enhance every bite in just a few steps. Click through for the full recipe and make your next dinner a delicious success!
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Ingredients
  

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes

4 medium carrots, sliced into thick rounds

3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch pieces

1 large onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces

4 cups beef broth

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained

2 tablespoons tomato paste

2 teaspoons dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried rosemary

1 bay leaf

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions
 

Sear the Beef: Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the beef cubes to the pan. Sear them until they are nicely browned on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial as it enhances the stew's overall flavor.

    Prepare the Slow Cooker: In your slow cooker, add the browned beef cubes, sliced carrots, diced potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, and the cut green beans. Stir everything to combine evenly.

      Mix the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the beef broth, undrained diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and the bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir the mixture well until the tomato paste is fully dissolved.

        Combine and Cook: Pour the broth mixture over the beef and vegetables in the slow cooker, ensuring that all ingredients are submerged in the liquid. This will help all the flavors meld together as it cooks.

          Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook on the low setting for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are soft and cooked through.

            Final Touches: Once the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the bay leaf from the stew. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.

              Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls and serve it hot. It’s delightful on its own or paired with crusty bread, perfect for dipping into the rich, hearty broth.

                Prep Time: 20 mins | Total Time: 8 hours 20 mins | Servings: 6-8

                  - Presentation Tips: Consider garnishing each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil for an added touch of color and flavor.

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