Name: Easy Pioneer Woman’s Crockpot Beef Stew
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 25 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1.5-inch cubes; 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped; 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced; 3 celery stalks, sliced; 1 large onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups beef broth; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 2 bay leaves; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and black pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons flour or cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Description

This Easy Pioneer Woman’s Crockpot Beef Stew is indeed a must-try, promising comfort, flavor, and convenience all in one pot.

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
4 large carrots, peeled and chopped
4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
3 celery stalks, sliced
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons flour or cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Instructions

Start by seasoning the beef cubes with salt and black pepper to taste. This step is crucial for infusing flavor into the meat. Next, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the seasoned beef cubes. Sear them, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown on all sides. Not only does browning the beef develop a rich flavor, but it also locks in juices that help keep the meat tender while cooking. Once browned, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
While the beef is browning, take this opportunity to chop your vegetables. Peel and slice the carrots, dice the potatoes, and chop the celery and onion. Mince the garlic as well. These vegetables will provide a hearty base for the stew and enhance its nutritional value. Once they are prepped, layer the chopped carrots, potatoes, celery, and onion at the bottom of your crockpot, forming a colorful foundation.
With the vegetables in place, it’s time to add the seared beef on top. This way, the beef can release juices into the vegetables as it cooks, creating a rich and flavorful stew. In a bowl, combine the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, dried thyme, and bay leaves. Stir this mixture until well combined, then pour it over the beef and vegetables in the crockpot. The liquid doesn’t just add flavor; it also ensures everything cooks evenly and keeps the beef moist.
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-5 hours. This is the part where you can kick back and relax, letting the magic happen. The slow cooking process will allow the beef to become tender and the flavors to meld beautifully. When it’s done, the stew should be thick, hearty, and divinely aromatic. For those who prefer a thicker stew, mix 2 tablespoons of flour or cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the stew about 30 minutes before serving.
After the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the bay leaves and taste the stew. This is your moment to adjust the seasoning if desired, adding more salt or pepper based on personal preference. Serve hot, and enjoy a comforting bowl of Easy Pioneer Woman’s Crockpot Beef Stew!

Notes

Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld, making this perfect for meal prep! Feel free to store leftover stew in airtight containers; it will last in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours
Category: Dinner

Nutrition

Calories: 350 kcal
Sodium: 800 mg
Protein: 30 g