Slow Cooker Beef Stew (Fall-Apart Tender!)

Slow Cooker Beef Stew (Fall-Apart Tender!)

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Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6–8 hours (slow cooker)
Servings: 6

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced thick
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 cups low-sodium beef broth
  • 1 cup water
  • 3 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 3 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 3 tbsp cold water (for thickening)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Brown the beef (optional but recommended): Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season beef with salt and pepper, then brown on all sides (about 5 minutes total). This adds incredible depth of flavor!
  2. Layer your slow cooker: Place potatoes, carrots, celery, and onion in the bottom of your slow cooker.
  3. Add the beef: Place browned beef on top of the vegetables.
  4. Create the cooking liquid: In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, water, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, thyme, and paprika. Pour over everything in the slow cooker.
  5. Add aromatics: Tuck bay leaves into the liquid.
  6. Set it and forget it: Cover and cook on LOW for 7–8 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours. The beef should be fork-tender and falling apart!
  7. Thicken the gravy: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the cornstarch slurry. This will thicken your stew to perfection.
  8. Final touches: Remove bay leaves, taste and adjust seasoning. Serve in deep bowls with soft bread for dipping! 

Chef’s Notes:

  • For even softer vegetables, cut them into larger chunks—they’ll break down more.
  • Add frozen peas in the last 20 minutes for a pop of color and nutrition.
  • This stew tastes even better the next day as flavors develop!
  • Freeze individual portions in containers for easy future meals.
  • If you don’t have a slow cooker, simmer on the stovetop for 2.5–3 hours until tender.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

  • Calories: 385
  • Protein: 34g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fat: 14g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Iron: 25% DV
  • Vitamin A: 180% DV

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