There’s nothing quite like a warm and hearty beef stew to make your family feel at home. This easy crock pot beef and vegetable stew is perfect for busy days when you need a meal that can simmer away while you focus on other things. With tender chunks of beef, fresh vegetables, and a rich broth, it’s comfort food at its finest.
Imagine coming home after a long day to the irresistible aroma of beef stew wafting through your home. This recipe does all the work for you, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day. It’s a simple, stress-free way to serve up something delicious for your loved ones.
Table of Contents
Comforting Ingredients That Warm the Heart
A hearty beef and vegetable stew is a blend of essential ingredients that create a cozy meal. Tender beef, vibrant carrots, and creamy potatoes come together to form a satisfying dish that appeals to all age groups. The addition of fresh herbs adds a touch of freshness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
The Slow Cooking Magic
Slow cooking allows flavors to develop fully, resulting in a rich and robust stew.
Using a crock pot makes this process effortless, allowing busy families to enjoy home-cooked meals without the fuss.
The long cooking time ensures the beef becomes tender and the vegetables soften just right.
Ideal for Any Occasion
This stew is versatile enough for everyday meals or special gatherings.
Its hearty nature makes it perfect for colder months, providing warmth and comfort.
Pairing it with rustic bread creates a delightful dining experience, inviting everyone to gather around the table.
Garnishing for Presentation
A sprinkle of fresh parsley elevates the dish, adding a pop of color and freshness.
Presentation matters, and this simple garnish makes the stew visually appealing.
Invite family and friends to dig in, making mealtime an enjoyable event.
Preparing Ahead for Convenience
One of the best features of this stew is its make-ahead potential.
Preparing it in advance means you can enjoy it later, perfect for meal prepping on busy days.
Simply store leftovers for a quick reheat, ensuring no one goes hungry.
Building Family Traditions
Serving a comforting beef stew can become a cherished family tradition.
Gathering around a warm bowl of stew fosters connection and conversation.
Each serving not only nourishes the body but also feeds the soul, creating lasting memories.
The Ultimate Beef and Vegetable Stew for Busy Families
This beef and vegetable stew is a filling dish that combines juicy beef, hearty potatoes, vibrant carrots, and savory herbs, all slow-cooked to perfection. The taste is rich and satisfying, making it a family favorite that warms you from the inside out.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 bay leaf
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Cut the beef and vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
- Sear the Beef: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and sear until browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). This step is optional but adds depth to the stew’s flavor.
- Combine in the Crock Pot: Transfer the beef to the crock pot. Add the potatoes, carrots, onion, garlic, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Add the Bay Leaf: Place the bay leaf on top of the mixture but do not stir it in.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
- Serve: Remove the bay leaf before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high
- Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
f you loved this guide, don’t miss our blog post, The Best Slow Cooker Dinners for Nursing Moms: Nutritious and Delicious. It’s packed with easy, comforting meals that make life simpler for busy moms.
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