Busy weeknights just became a little easier with this amazing slow cooker beef stew recipe. It's time to savor restaurant-quality flavors effortlessly!
Why Choose Slow Cooking?
For families juggling work, school, and endless errands, the idea of coming home to a warm meal that requires minimal effort is appealing. Patterson Watkins, a renowned recipe developer, emphasizes the convenience of slow cooking. "Setting it and forgetting it is truly a game changer," she notes. A Crockpot beef stew can be prepared once and enjoyed throughout the week, effectively solving dinner dilemmas on busy days.
Restaurant-Quality Taste
Watkins assures that this beef stew with red wine doesn't compromise on flavor. The secret is in using an enriched broth combined with aromatic ingredients. This recipe calls for merlot, malbec, or syrah, which not only enhance the taste but elevate the dish to restaurant-level quality. The flavors meld beautifully, with essential ingredients like garlic, rosemary, and thyme immersing every piece of meat and potato in a rich, savory bliss.
Versatile Ingredient Options
While the classic recipe features a delightful mix of meats and veggies, there's room for creativity. Want to elevate your stew? You can opt for a variety of root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes for added flavor and nutrition. Being flexible with ingredients is not just about enhancing flavors; it's about accommodating seasonal produce and preferences.
Essential Ingredients for Your Stew
Gather the following ingredients for an indulgent family meal
- 1 ½ pounds of beef sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup dry red wine (merlot, malbec, or syrah recommended)
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup diced onion
- 4 garlic cloves, peeled and minced
- 1 pound baby yellow potatoes
- 5 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs
- 3 bay leaves
- 1 cup frozen peas
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Pat dry the steak pieces with paper towels.
2. Season the steak with salt and pepper for a flavorful foundation.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Sear the steak on all sides until deeply browned, about 2 minutes per side.
5. Lower the heat to medium-low and sprinkle the steak with flour, stirring well to coat.
6. Deglaze the skillet with your chosen red wine, stirring frequently until a thick gravy forms, about 5 minutes.
7. Transfer the steak and gravy to your Crockpot.
8. Add the carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and baby potatoes to the pot.
9. Pour the beef broth, tomato paste, butter, and herbs into the mixture, gently stirring to combine.
10. Set your slow cooker on low for 7 to 8 hours, or high for 4 hours.
11. Fifteen minutes before serving, stir in the peas for that pop of color and texture.
12. Serve the stew warm in bowls and enjoy a meal that's as comforting as it is delicious.
Serving Suggestions
This slow cooker beef stew recipe is filling on its own, but consider pairing it with warm crusty bread or a fresh salad to round out your dinner. Each bite will remind your family of the cozy gatherings around the dinner table.
Can I Adapt This Recipe?
Flexibility is key in the kitchen! If you prefer tender veggies like green beans, bell peppers, or mushrooms, feel free to add those around the last thirty minutes of cooking. Not only do they enhance the flavor, but they add visual appeal and nutritional benefits.
Stovetop Variation
If you don’t have a slow cooker on hand, fear not! You can prepare this beef stew on the stovetop
- After browning the steak, remove it and sauté the mirepoix (carrots, celery, and onions) with garlic and butter for about three minutes.
- Deglaze with red wine, then return the beef and add the broth.
- Simmer everything on low for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally until tender, add peas near the end, and serve.
Cooking isn’t just about nourishing bodies but also creating warm memories. With this beef brisket slow cooker recipe, every meal becomes a comforting experience worth sharing. Enjoy easy cooking that earns the title of dinner hero every weeknight!
Nutritional Information
Calories: 771 per serving
Total Fat: 40.6 g
Saturated Fat: 16.4 g
Cholesterol: 155.6 mg
Total Carbohydrates: 45 g
Dietary Fiber: 6.9 g
Total Sugars: 9.1 g
Protein: 46.2 g