There’s something special about walking into the kitchen and being greeted by the rich aroma of a stew that’s been simmering all day. This Slow Cooker Beef and Potato Stew is a true comfort classic—simple ingredients, slow-cooked to perfection, and full of cozy flavors that remind you of home. With tender chunks of beef, hearty potatoes, and veggies in a savory broth, it’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out. Whether it’s a cold winter night or just a busy day when you need dinner ready and waiting, this stew is the perfect “set it and forget it” recipe that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Ingredients
2 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
3 carrots, sliced
3 celery stalks, chopped
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
2 bay leaves
3 tbsp flour (optional, for thickening)
2 tbsp olive oil (for browning beef)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Brown the Beef (Optional): Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season beef cubes with salt and pepper, then brown on all sides. (This step adds extra flavor but can be skipped for convenience.)
Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker: Place beef, potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic into the slow cooker.
Mix Broth & Seasoning: In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Pour over the beef and vegetables.
Cook: Cover and cook on Low for 7–8 hours or High for 4–5 hours, until beef and vegetables are tender.
Optional Thickening: For a thicker stew, stir 3 tbsp flour with ½ cup cold water and mix into the stew 30 minutes before serving.
Serve: Remove bay leaves, taste, and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
You can swap potatoes for sweet potatoes for a twist.
Frozen peas or green beans can be added during the last 30 minutes for extra color and flavor.
Best served with crusty bread for soaking up the broth.
