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wholesome crockpot beef stew close-up with tender beef, carrots, potatoes, and peas in a rich brown gravy

Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew

This Wholesome Crockpot Beef Stew is hearty, flavorful, and packed with tender chunks of beef and wholesome vegetables. A comforting slow-cooked meal that's perfect for cozy nights or meal prep throughout the week.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 bowls
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 410
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Beef and Vegetables
  • 2 lbs beef stew meat cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tbsp olive oil for searing
  • 4 carrots peeled and sliced
  • 3 potatoes cut into chunks
  • 2 stalks celery chopped
  • 1 yellow onion chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
Broth and Seasoning
  • 4 cups beef broth low sodium preferred
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp salt adjust to taste
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch optional, for thickening
  • 2 tbsp cold water for cornstarch slurry

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • Large Skillet
  • Mixing Spoon

Method
 

  1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the beef in batches until browned on all sides. Transfer to the crockpot.
  2. Add carrots, potatoes, celery, onion, and garlic to the crockpot.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme. Pour over the beef and vegetables.
  4. Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are soft.
  5. If desired, mix cornstarch and cold water to form a slurry. Stir into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking to thicken.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Notes

For a deeper flavor, add a splash of red wine to the broth mixture before slow cooking. Leftovers taste even better the next day and can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.