There’s something so comforting about old fashioned crock pot recipes, isn’t there? They remind me of chilly evenings when the aroma of delicious food fills the house, wrapping everyone in a warm embrace. Slow cooking is truly a magical process; it allows flavors to meld together beautifully, creating rich, hearty meals with minimal effort. Today, I’m excited to share my favorite recipe for beef stew, a classic that epitomizes the spirit of old fashioned crock pot cooking. With tender chunks of beef, vibrant vegetables, and a savory broth, this dish not only warms the soul but also brings everyone together around the dinner table. Trust me, once you try this stew, it’ll become a staple in your slow cooker repertoire!

Ingredients List

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this old fashioned beef stew a standout. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces – this cut is perfect for slow cooking as it becomes tender and flavorful.
• 4 medium potatoes, diced – I love using Yukon Gold or russet potatoes for their creamy texture.
• 3 carrots, sliced – they add a nice sweetness and vibrant color.
• 1 onion, chopped – a must for that aromatic base.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – because garlic makes everything better!
• 4 cups beef broth – use a good quality broth for rich flavor.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – this adds depth and umami.
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme – a classic herb that complements beef beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon salt – adjust to taste, of course!
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – freshly ground is best.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – for browning the beef and adding richness.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional) – for those who like a thicker stew.

These ingredients come together to create a savory, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Happy cooking!

How to Prepare Instructions

Now, let’s dive into the heart of this recipe! Preparing beef stew in your crock pot is super straightforward, and I promise you’ll be rewarded with an incredible meal. Here’s how to do it:

1. Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. You want that oil nice and hot for perfect browning!
2. Brown the 2 pounds of beef chuck in batches, ensuring each piece gets a good sear on all sides. This step is crucial for locking in flavor, so don’t rush it! It usually takes about 5-7 minutes per batch.
3. Once browned, transfer the beef to your crock pot, letting all those juicy bits go in too.
4. Next, add the 4 diced potatoes, 3 sliced carrots, 1 chopped onion, and 4 minced garlic cloves right on top of the beef.
5. Pour in 4 cups of beef broth along with 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and season with 2 teaspoons of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir gently to combine everything.
6. Cover the crock pot, set it to cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, and let the magic happen!
7. If you prefer a thicker stew, about 30 minutes before serving, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the pot. This will give your stew that perfect velvety texture.

And voilà! You’ll have a comforting beef stew that’s bursting with flavor. Just remember, slow cooking is all about patience and letting those delicious flavors develop!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless preparation—just toss everything in the crock pot and let it do the work!
• Rich, deep flavors develop as the ingredients meld together during the slow cooking process.
• Perfectly tender beef that melts in your mouth, thanks to low and slow cooking.
• A comforting, hearty meal that warms you up from the inside out.
• Ideal for busy days; set it in the morning and come home to a delicious dinner waiting for you!

Tips for Success

To elevate your beef stew to the next level, here are some pro tips that I swear by:

• Browning the beef: Make sure the oil is hot before adding the beef to avoid steaming. Don’t overcrowd the pan; brown in batches to get that gorgeous sear that adds depth of flavor.
• Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process. Remember, flavors intensify during slow cooking, so start with a little salt and add more as needed.
• Stew thickness: If you prefer a thicker stew, add the cornstarch mixture gradually while stirring, and allow the stew to cook an additional 30 minutes uncovered to let it thicken up. You can also mash a few potatoes against the side of the pot for a natural thickening effect!
• Resting time: Let your stew sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This will help the flavors settle and make for a more cohesive dish.

With these tips, your old fashioned crock pot beef stew will be a surefire hit!

Variations

One of the best things about this old fashioned beef stew is its adaptability! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or use up what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Alternative vegetables: Swap out the potatoes for sweet potatoes or parsnips for a different flavor. You can also add green beans or peas for a pop of color and sweetness.
• Herb choices: While thyme is classic, try using rosemary or even a bay leaf for a deeper aroma. A sprinkle of fresh parsley just before serving adds a lovely touch!
• Spice it up: If you love a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the broth.
• Different meats: For a twist, use pork shoulder or even chicken thighs instead of beef for a lighter version of this stew.

These variations can really transform your stew and keep it exciting, so don’t hesitate to experiment!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your leftover beef stew is super simple and a great way to enjoy it later! Allow the stew to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags, and it should last for about 3 months.

When you’re ready to reheat, the best method is to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Then, heat it gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed through. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl, covering it loosely to prevent splattering. Just be sure to stir halfway through to heat evenly. Enjoy that comforting beef stew all over again!

Nutritional Information Section

When it comes to nutrition, keep in mind that values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. While I can’t provide exact numbers, here’s a rough estimate for a serving of this hearty beef stew:

• Calories: Approximately 350
• Fat: About 15g
• Protein: Roughly 25g
• Carbohydrates: Around 30g
• Sodium: Approximately 800mg

Always feel free to adjust ingredients to fit your dietary needs while enjoying this classic old fashioned crock pot recipe!

FAQ Section

Can I use frozen beef for this stew?
Yes, you can use frozen beef, but be sure to thaw it first for even cooking. If you’re in a pinch, you can add it frozen, but increase the cooking time slightly to ensure it’s fully cooked through.

What can I serve with beef stew?
Beef stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, or even a side salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it with some roasted vegetables or a hearty grain like quinoa!

Can I make this recipe without a crock pot?
Absolutely! You can prepare this beef stew on the stovetop in a large pot. Just follow the same steps, but simmer on low heat for about 2-3 hours instead of using the crock pot.

How do I know when the beef is done?
The beef is done when it’s tender and easily pulls apart with a fork. It should take about 8 hours on low or 4 hours on high in the crock pot. Trust me, you’ll know it’s ready when the aroma fills your kitchen!

Can I add other ingredients to the stew?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in other veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms, or even add herbs and spices to customize the flavor. This old fashioned crock pot recipe is super flexible, so make it your own!

Old Fashioned Crock Pot Recipes: 7 Steps to Comforting Stew

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Fat

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Description

A classic old fashioned crock pot recipe for tender beef stew.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 4 medium potatoes, diced
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the beef in batches, ensuring a good sear on all sides.
3. Transfer the browned beef to the crock pot.
4. Add potatoes, carrots, onion, and garlic to the pot.
5. Pour in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce.
6. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
7. Stir to combine all ingredients.
8. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
9. If desired, mix cornstarch with a little water and stir into the stew for thickening 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

• For a richer flavor, add red wine to the broth.
• Experiment with herbs like rosemary or bay leaves for different taste profiles.
• Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 hours
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: old fashioned crock pot recipes, beef stew, slow cooker meals