When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can beat a hearty beef stew that’s been simmering all day in the crockpot. The Pioneer Woman’s version of Crockpot Beef Stew is everything you’d expect: tender chunks of beef, rich and flavorful gravy, perfectly cooked vegetables, and a taste that feels like home in every bite.
This recipe takes all the traditional flavors of classic beef stew and lets the slow cooker do the heavy lifting. It’s perfect for busy days, cold nights, or when you simply want a warm, filling dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized chunks
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional, but adds rich flavor — can substitute with more broth)
- 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced into chunks
- 3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the beef
Toss the stew meat with flour, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. This helps the beef brown nicely and thickens the stew later. - Brown the beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the floured beef in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan) and sear until browned on all sides. This step is optional, but it builds a deeper, richer flavor. - Layer the crockpot
Transfer the browned beef to your slow cooker. Add the carrots, potatoes, onion, celery, and garlic on top. - Add liquids and seasonings
Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Pour the beef broth and wine (if using) over everything. Gently stir to combine. - Cook low and slow
Cover and cook on Low for 8–9 hours or High for 4–5 hours, until the beef is fall-apart tender and the vegetables are cooked through. - Finishing touches
Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaves. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for brightness.
Tips for Success
- Don’t skip browning: While you can skip searing the beef, taking the time to brown it first adds a deep, savory flavor to the stew.
- Thicker stew: If you like your stew extra thick, whisk together 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water and stir it into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Make it ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. It reheats well on the stove or in the microwave.
- Serving ideas: Serve with crusty bread, over egg noodles, or with a side salad for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love Pioneer Woman’s Beef Stew
This crockpot beef stew is the perfect balance of hearty, comforting, and flavorful. The beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, the vegetables soak up all the savory goodness, and the broth transforms into a rich, slightly thickened sauce that clings to every bite.
It’s a classic recipe that never goes out of style and one you’ll come back to again and again. Whether you’re feeding your family on a weeknight or cooking for a cozy Sunday dinner, this stew always delivers.
