Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew

Finding a comforting dinner that practically makes itself can feel impossible, especially during those busy weeks when you’re juggling work, family, and life. If you’re looking for a dish that warms the soul and fills the belly, let me introduce you to my Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew. This recipe is not just about feeding your family; it’s about gathering around the table after a long day and sharing moments that matter.

What I love most about this stew is how simple it is to prepare. Just toss everything into your crockpot, and let it do its magic! Perfect for cozy weeknights or even family gatherings, this stew will make your house smell delightful and keep everyone satisfied.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: With minimal prep time, you can enjoy more moments with your loved ones.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will fall in love with the rich flavors and hearty ingredients!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This stew tastes even better the next day, making it a great option for meal prep.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with veggies and wholesome goodness, this is comfort food you can feel good about.
• Versatile: Feel free to customize it based on what you have at home or your family’s preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun! For this Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew, you’ll need some simple and wholesome items that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll be using:

For the Stew

• 2 ½ pounds of stew meat
• ½ teaspoon each of black pepper, garlic salt, and celery salt
• ¼ cup flour
• 3-6 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons chilled butter (split)
• 2 cups chopped yellow onions
• 4 minced garlic cloves
• 1 cup apple vinegar (use cabernet sauvignon or merlot)
• 4 cups beef stock
• 2 beef bouillon cubes
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 3 tablespoons tomato concentrate

Veggies

• 5 medium carrots, chopped into 1-inch pieces
• 1 pound baby Yukon Gold potatoes, halved or quartered
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 rosemary sprig

For Finishing Touches

• 1 cup frozen peas
• (Optional) ¼ cup cold water mixed with 3 tablespoons corn starch for thickening
• (Optional) 2-3 drops gravy master for deeper color

Variations

One of my favorite things about this Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew is its flexibility. You can easily adapt it based on what you have in your pantry or personal taste. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken or turkey for a lighter version.
• Add different veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or zucchini if you’re looking to mix things up.
• Herb alternatives: Experiment with thyme or oregano instead of rosemary for a different flavor profile.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little heat in your stew!

How to Make Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew

Step 1: Prepare the Meat

Start by seasoning the stew meat with black pepper, garlic salt, and celery salt. Sprinkle flour over it and toss to coat evenly. This step helps create a delicious crust when seared and thickens the stew later on.

Step 2: Sear the Meat

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the seasoned meat until browned on all sides. This caramelization adds depth of flavor that makes your stew extraordinary.

Step 3: Sauté Onions & Garlic

In the same skillet, add chilled butter along with chopped onions. Sauté until they turn translucent—this brings out their natural sweetness! Stir in minced garlic for an added aromatic kick.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot

Transfer the seared meat along with sautéed onions and garlic into your crockpot. Pour in apple vinegar, beef stock, Worcestershire sauce, tomato concentrate, and add bouillon cubes. Toss in carrots and potatoes. Finally, nestle bay leaves and rosemary sprig among the ingredients.

Step 5: Cook Low & Slow

Set your crockpot to low heat and let it cook for about 210 minutes (that’s three and a half hours!). The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it becomes as all those lovely ingredients meld together.

Step 6: Final Touches

About half an hour before serving, stir in frozen peas for color and nutrition. If you’d like a thicker stew, mix cold water with corn starch and stir it in as well.

Now all that’s left to do is gather around the table and enjoy this delicious Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew! It’s sure to become a comforting staple in your home just like it has in mine.

Pro Tips for Making Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew

Making a delicious stew is easier than you might think! With a few handy tips, you can elevate your Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew to a whole new level.

• Choose the right cut of meat: Opt for tougher cuts like chuck roast that become tender during slow cooking. This ensures a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s perfect for stews.
• Brown the meat first: Searing the beef in olive oil before adding it to the crockpot enhances its flavor and adds depth to your stew. Don’t skip this step for maximum taste!
• Layer your ingredients: Place heartier vegetables like potatoes and carrots at the bottom of the pot, with meat on top. This helps them cook evenly and absorb all the savory flavors as they simmer.
• Adjust seasoning at the end: Since flavors develop over time, wait until the last hour of cooking to taste and adjust your seasoning. This way, you won’t over-season early on.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs can make a big difference in flavor! If you have thyme or parsley on hand, toss in a sprig or two toward the end of cooking for added freshness.

How to Serve Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew

Serving your Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to help you present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant green parsley adds color and a hint of freshness that brightens every bowl.
• Cracked black pepper: A few cracks of black pepper on top not only enhances flavor but also gives your stew a rustic look.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up every last bit of flavorful broth, making it an essential companion to your stew.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette provides a fresh contrast to the hearty stew, balancing flavors perfectly.
• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes serve as a delightful base for your beef stew. The rich sauce poured over adds lusciousness that’s simply irresistible.
• Steamed broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a pop of color and nutrition alongside your stew. Its subtle crunch complements the tender meat and veggies beautifully.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re well on your way to enjoying a cozy dinner that everyone will love! Your Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew is sure to be a hit at any table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Plus, it stores well, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label and date your containers for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Portion the stew into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.
• To prevent freezer burn, wrap containers tightly with plastic wrap or foil.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe.

Can I use other types of meat in this Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew?

Absolutely! While beef is traditional, you can substitute with chicken or even plant-based options like mushrooms or lentils for a different take.

How long does it take to cook Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew?

Cooking time typically ranges from 3.5 to 4 hours on high or 6-8 hours on low settings. The longer it simmers, the more tender the meat becomes.

Can I add other vegetables to my stew?

Definitely! Feel free to customize your Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew by adding vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or even sweet potatoes based on your preferences.

What should I serve with my Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew?

This hearty stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple green salad. It’s also great over rice or mashed potatoes if you’re looking for something extra comforting!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew as much as I do! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings everyone together at the dinner table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend, this dish is sure to satisfy. Happy cooking!