If you’re craving a dish that wraps you in comfort on a chilly evening, look no further than Mom’s Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe. This hearty, soul-satisfying stew fills your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of tender beef simmered low and slow alongside fragrant herbs, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, savory broth. Each bite bursts with deep, well-rounded flavors, delivering a satisfying texture from the melt-in-your-mouth chuck and the gentle bite of Yukon gold potatoes and carrots. It’s the perfect recipe to cozy up with, bringing warmth and a nostalgic touch of home to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up view of a black slow cooker filled with a thick stew that has three main visible layers: the rich brown sauce that covers the entire dish, chunks of orange carrots scattered evenly throughout, and soft, light brown pieces of meat mixed with small bright green peas and pale potato chunks. The slow cooker sits on a white marbled surface, showing the glossy texture of the stew inside. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Mom’s Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe is a wonderful example of how simple, quality ingredients come together to create something magical. Each component plays a vital role, from the tender beef that forms the stew’s hearty base to the fresh vegetables that add color and texture, making every spoonful a delight.

1 tablespoon olive oil: Essential for browning the beef to lock in rich flavors.
3 pounds beef chuck: The star of the stew, cut into 1-inch pieces for perfect tenderness after slow cooking.
Freshly ground salt and pepper: To season the meat and enhance all the flavors.
1 ½ cups beef broth (or beef bone broth): Provides a rich, savory base that infuses the stew.
1 cup dry red wine (or extra beef broth): Adds depth and complexity to the stew’s flavor.
2 tablespoons tomato paste: Gives a subtle tang and a beautiful color to the broth.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Boosts the umami and richness.
½ tablespoon balsamic vinegar: Balances flavors with a slight acidity.
1 teaspoon dried thyme: Earthy herb notes that mingle beautifully with the beef.
1 teaspoon salt: To season and bring out natural flavors.
Lots of freshly ground black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and depth.
6 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses a warm, pungent aroma.
1 large yellow onion, cut into chunks: Sweetness and texture for the stew.
4 large carrots, peeled and cut into ½-inch diagonal slices: Adds color and a natural sweetness.
1 pound Yukon gold potatoes, diced: Creamy and tender, perfect to soak up the stew’s flavors.
¼ cup all-purpose flour: Used to thicken the stew for that classic hearty texture.
1 cup frozen peas: Added at the end for a pop of fresh color and slight sweetness.

How to Make Mom’s Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef

To build layers of flavor, start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your beef chuck pieces generously with salt and pepper, then brown them in batches to ensure each piece develops a golden crust. This step takes about 5 minutes per batch, and it’s well worth the patience as this searing seals in the beef’s juices and adds a rich caramelized note to the stew.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Once all the beef is beautifully browned, transfer it to your slow cooker. Next, pour in the beef broth, red wine (or extra broth), tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and balsamic vinegar. Sprinkle in the thyme, additional salt, and plenty of freshly ground black pepper. Stir everything together so the beef is evenly coated in this flavorful liquid. Then nestle in the minced garlic, chunky onion pieces, carrots, and diced potatoes — these will soften and soak up all that rich broth as the stew cooks.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Tender Perfection

Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 7 to 8 hours, which allows the beef to become incredibly tender and the flavors to meld beautifully over time. If you’re pressed for time, you can cook on high for 4 to 5 hours, though slow and low is definitely the secret to that melt-in-your-mouth texture and deep, complex flavor that makes Mom’s Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe so memorable.

Step 4: Thicken the Stew and Add Peas

When your stew is just about finished cooking, carefully remove one cup of beef broth from the slow cooker and whisk in the quarter cup of flour until smooth. Stir this mixture back into the stew, then add the frozen peas. Cook uncovered on high for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the stew thickens to your desired consistency. If the stew feels too thick, simply add a splash more beef broth until it’s perfectly saucy and spoonable.

How to Serve Mom’s Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe

A white bowl filled with a thick stew showing chunks of dark brown beef, small bright green peas, orange carrot slices, and light tan potato pieces in rich brown gravy, garnished with small green herb leaves. A toasted slice of light golden brown bread rests on the side edge of the bowl. A silver spoon is partially submerged in the stew inside the bowl. In the top background, another white bowl with the same stew is partially visible, alongside another toasted bread slice on a white wooden plate. The setting sits on a white marbled surface with scattered green herbs and a gray textured cloth visible on the lower right side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle your stew with a handful of freshly chopped parsley or thyme to introduce a burst of fresh green color and a subtle herbal aroma. A grating of nutmeg or a dash of smoked paprika can add a surprising twist that lifts the dish even further. These simple touches make your presentation inviting and show off the stew’s rustic charm.

Side Dishes

This stew pairs effortlessly with classic comfort sides. Serve it alongside buttery mashed potatoes for a creamy complement, or toasted French bread to soak up every last drop of that luscious broth. Cornbread, buttery biscuits, or crisp crackers also work beautifully, adding a delightful contrast whether soft or crunchy to each tender bite of beef and vegetables.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy dinner party, serve Mom’s Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe in individual rustic bowls or mini cast iron pots to wow your guests. Top each serving with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded sharp cheddar for extra indulgence. You can even scoop the stew into hollowed-out bread bowls for a fun twist that doubles as edible serving ware.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This stew tastes incredible the next day, as the flavors deepen further overnight. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Gently reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming without drying out the beef or vegetables.

Freezing

Mom’s Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe freezes beautifully, making it a fantastic make-ahead meal. Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip bags. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove, stirring to bring back its full richness.

Reheating

For the best texture, reheat the stew slowly on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring often. If the stew has thickened too much in the fridge, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up. Reheating in the microwave is quick, but be sure to do it in short intervals, stirring between each, to avoid hot spots and maintain the stew’s lovely consistency.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for this stew?

Absolutely! While beef chuck is ideal for its balance of tenderness and fat content, you can use other braising cuts like brisket or stew meat. Just keep in mind that leaner cuts might dry out if cooked too long, so adjusting cooking time may be necessary.

Do I have to use red wine in the recipe?

Not at all. The red wine adds a lovely depth and complexity, but you can easily substitute it with extra beef broth if you prefer a non-alcoholic version. The stew will still be delicious and flavorful.

Can I prepare this stew in an Instant Pot instead of a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! Brown the beef using the sauté function on your Instant Pot, then add the remaining ingredients and cook on high pressure for about 35 to 40 minutes. Remember to do a natural pressure release for the best texture.

Why add flour mixed with broth at the end?

Mixing flour with broth before adding it prevents lumps and helps thicken the stew evenly. This step is crucial to achieve the classic, hearty consistency that clings to the beef and veggies perfectly.

Can I add other vegetables to this stew?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in mushrooms, parsnips, or celery for extra flavor and texture. Just adjust the cooking times as needed to make sure all veggies become tender and flavorful.

Final Thoughts

Mom’s Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe is truly a treasure in any kitchen, combining simplicity, comfort, and downright deliciousness in every spoonful. Whether you’re cooking a family meal or planning a cozy night in, this stew promises to be a warm hug in a bowl that everyone will love. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved staple on your dinner table.

Mom’s Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe