Easy Crockpot Beef Stew Recipe – Hearty, Comforting & Perfect for Family Dinners

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There’s nothing quite like coming home to the smell of a hearty crockpot beef stew simmering away in the kitchen. This recipe is the definition of cozy comfort food — simple, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights or Sunday dinners with family. With tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich, savory broth, it’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out.

Bowl of easy crockpot beef stew with beef, carrots, and potatoes

The best part? It’s truly a dump-and-go recipe — just add everything to your slow cooker, set it, and let the magic happen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into chunks
  • 4 medium carrots, sliced into 1-inch pieces
  • 3 medium potatoes, diced
  • 3 celery stalks, sliced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp cold water (for thickening, optional)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-By-Step Instructions

  1. Prep the ingredients: Chop all vegetables and cut beef into bite-sized chunks.
  2. Layer the crockpot: Place beef at the bottom of the slow cooker, then add carrots, potatoes, celery, onion, and garlic.
  3. Mix the broth: In a small bowl, whisk together beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaves. Pour over the beef and veggies.
  4. Slow cook: Cover with lid and cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 4 hours, until beef is tender.
  5. Thicken the stew (optional): In the last 30 minutes of cooking, mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl. Stir into the stew to thicken.
  6. Finish & serve: Remove bay leaves, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve warm with crusty bread.

Helpful Notes & Tips

  • Meat tip: Browning the beef before adding it to the crockpot adds extra flavor, but it’s optional if you want to save time.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Spices: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or rosemary for more depth of flavor.

Recipe Variations

  • Protein Swap: Use chicken thighs or pork shoulder instead of beef for a fun twist.
  • Lighter Option: Replace potatoes with cauliflower florets for a lower-carb version.
  • Veggie Boost: Add mushrooms, peas, or parsnips for extra flavor and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

This beef stew is hearty on its own, but it’s even better with:

  • Warm crusty bread or dinner rolls
  • A side salad with tangy vinaigrette
  • Buttered egg noodles or rice to soak up the rich broth

Conclusion

This easy crockpot beef stew is everything we love about family dinners: simple, flavorful, and so comforting. Whether you’re serving it on a cold winter night or just need a stress-free meal for the week, it’s the perfect recipe to come home to.