Slow Cooker Beef and Root Vegetable Stew
When you need a comforting meal, this Slow Cooker Beef and Root Vegetable Stew is perfect. It’s a hearty, hands-off recipe that fills your home with delicious aromas and your belly with warmth. This cozy dinner recipe is simple to make and incredibly satisfying.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Beef Stew Meat: You can use chuck roast cut into cubes.
- Root Vegetables: Carrots, potatoes, and parsnips are essential. Feel free to add sweet potatoes or turnips.
- Beef Broth: Vegetable broth works if you prefer.
- Tomato Paste: A small amount adds depth.
- Herbs: Dried thyme and bay leaves elevate the flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large parsnip, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces (optional)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 6-8 hours on low, or 3-4 hours on high
- Total time: 3 hours 20 minutes to 8 hours 20 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400
- Tools needed: Large slow cooker, large skillet (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Beef
Pat the beef stew meat dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper. You can brown the beef in olive oil in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker if you like, but it’s not essential for this cozy dinner recipe.
2. Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
Add the beef to your slow cooker. Then, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, carrots, potatoes, and parsnip. Pour in the beef broth and stir in the tomato paste until it’s well combined.
3. Add Herbs and Seasonings
Tuck the dried thyme and bay leaves into the mixture. Give everything a gentle stir to ensure the seasonings are distributed. Adjust salt and pepper to your preference.
4. Cook the Stew
Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The beef should be incredibly tender and the vegetables soft. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells amazing, signaling a perfect cozy dinner recipe.
5. Serve and Garnish
Carefully remove the bay leaves before serving. Ladle the hot stew into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley if you like. Enjoy this hearty and comforting meal.
Variation Ideas
- Add Lentils: Stir in 1/2 cup of brown or green lentils during the last hour of cooking for extra protein and fiber.
- Different Root Vegetables: Experiment with sweet potatoes, turnips, or celery root for varied flavors and textures.
- Spicier Kick: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle heat to your stew.
- Hearty Grains: Serve over a bed of quinoa or wild rice to make it an even more substantial meal.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave until heated through. This stew often tastes even better the next day!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I freeze this stew? Yes, this stew freezes beautifully. Freeze in individual portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
- Do I have to brown the beef? No, browning is optional. It adds a deeper flavor, but the stew will still be delicious without it, perfect for an easy cozy dinner recipe.
- What if my stew is too thin? You can thicken it by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water, then stirring it into the hot stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried? Absolutely! Use 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme for every teaspoon of dried thyme.
- What should I serve with this stew? Crusty bread, a simple green salad, or a side of cornbread are all excellent choices.
- Is this recipe good for meal prep? Yes, it’s an excellent cozy dinner recipe for meal prep as it reheats well and the flavors deepen over time.
