Pioneer Woman’s Crockpot Beef Stew is more than just a recipe—it’s a bowl of comfort that feels like a warm hug on a cold day. This hearty dish captures the essence of homestyle cooking, bringing together tender chunks of beef, earthy root vegetables, and a deeply flavorful broth that slowly develops in the crockpot. What makes this recipe stand out is its simplicity; you can prepare it in the morning, let it simmer throughout the day, and by dinnertime, you’re greeted with an irresistible aroma that fills the entire house.
Perfect for chilly evenings, family dinners, or even meal prepping, this beef stew is as versatile as it is delicious. Serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the rich gravy, or pair it with fluffy mashed potatoes for an extra dose of comfort. You can also personalize it with your favorite vegetables—peas, mushrooms, or even a splash of red wine for added depth of flavor.
Leftovers store beautifully, making it an ideal make-ahead dish for busy weeks. Each reheated bowl tastes even better as the flavors meld together over time. With every spoonful, Pioneer Woman’s Crockpot Beef Stew proves that simple, slow-cooked meals can be both nourishing and unforgettable.
Ingredients
– 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 4 medium-sized carrots, sliced
– 4 medium-sized potatoes, diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– 2 bay leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– ¼ cup all-purpose flour (for thickening, optional)
Instructions
Creating Pioneer Woman’s Crockpot Beef Stew is straightforward if you follow these simple steps:
1. Prepare the Meat: Start by trimming any excess fat from the beef chuck and cut the meat into 1-inch pieces.
2. Season the Beef: Generously season the beef pieces with salt and pepper.
3. Brown the Beef: (Optional) In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the beef in batches for added flavor. This step enhances the meat’s richness but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
4. Add Ingredients to the Crockpot: In the Crockpot, layer the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, and chopped onion.
5. Incorporate the Beef: Add the seasoned beef on top of the vegetables.
6. Add Aromatics: Sprinkle the minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, and Worcestershire sauce over the meat and veggies.
7. Pour in the Broth and Wine: Gently pour the beef broth and wine over everything, ensuring the ingredients are well covered.
8. Add Bay Leaves: Drop the bay leaves on top for flavor infusion.
9. Cook the Stew: Cover the Crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
10. Thicken the Stew: If you prefer a thicker stew, mix flour with a little cold water to form a slurry. Add it to the stew about 30 minutes before serving and stir well.
11. Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning as needed.
12. Serve: Remove the bay leaves and serve the stew warm, enjoy the fullness of flavors!
By following these steps, you’ll create a dish that fills the home with delightful aromas and creates an unforgettable dining experience.