Slow Cooker Beef Stew: Comfort Food Made Easy

A hearty, flavorful stew perfect for cozy nights

Nothing beats the comforting aroma of a slow-cooked beef stew simmering away in your kitchen. This recipe combines tender chunks of beef, fresh vegetables, and rich flavors, all effortlessly cooked in your slow cooker. The addition of red wine and aromatic herbs elevates this dish, making it perfect for family dinners or weekend gatherings. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy a delicious homemade stew with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 2 lb beef stew meat or chuck roast, cut into small pieces

• 3-4 russet potatoes, peeled and diced

• 3 celery stalks, chopped

• 1 onion, diced (white or yellow)

• 3-5 carrots, chopped

• Garlic & Herb seasoning (or your favorite seasoning)

• ½ cup red wine of choice

• 1 gravy packet (low sodium preferred)

• 1 beefy onion soup mix packet

• 1 can Campbell's cream of mushroom or cream of chicken with herbs

• 2 cups beef stock or broth

• 1 heaping tbsp Better than Bouillon roasted beef base

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 2 tbsp minced garlic (or 4-5 cloves fresh garlic, pressed)

• Fresh thyme and rosemary sprigs for aromatics

• 3 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 3 tbsp water (slurry)

Directions

1. Wash, peel, and dice your vegetables; add them to the slow cooker.

2. Season the stew meat with garlic & Herb seasoning or your preferred seasoning; add the meat to the slow cooker.

3. Pour in the red wine, then add the gravy packet, onion soup mix, cream of mushroom (or chicken), beef stock, beef base, tomato paste, and minced garlic. Mix well to combine.

4. Place the thyme and rosemary on top for added aroma. Cover and cook on low for 7 hours.

5. After 7 hours, stir in the cornstarch slurry and set the slow cooker to high for an additional 30 minutes to an hour to thicken the stew.

6. Serve hot, either on its own or over rice for a satisfying meal.

Enjoy this hearty, flavorful beef stew that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!