Slow Cooker Beef and Mushroom Stew
Warm, hearty, and full of rich flavors, this Slow Cooker Beef and Mushroom Stew is the perfect comfort food for cold days. With tender beef, earthy mushrooms, and a savory red wine sauce, this easy slow cooker recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor right to your home.
Ingredients
-
2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
-
2 tablespoons olive oil
-
1 large onion, chopped
-
3 cloves garlic, minced
-
2 cups mushrooms, sliced
-
3 carrots, peeled and sliced
-
2 tablespoons tomato paste
-
1 cup beef broth
-
1 cup red wine
-
1 teaspoon dried thyme
-
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
-
Salt and pepper to taste
-
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Instructions (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper, then sear them in batches until browned on all sides.
(This step helps lock in flavor and gives the stew a rich, deep taste.)
Transfer the browned beef into your slow cooker.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic.
Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
Then add mushrooms and carrots, cooking until the mushrooms begin to brown.
Add the tomato paste and sprinkle the flour over the mixture, stirring well to coat.
Cook for another minute, then pour in a splash of beef broth to deglaze the pan.
Step 3: Combine Everything in the Slow Cooker
Transfer the cooked vegetables into the slow cooker with the beef.
Add the remaining beef broth, red wine, thyme, and rosemary.
Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Step 4: Slow Cook the Stew
Cover and cook on:
-
LOW for 7–8 hours, or
-
HIGH for 3.5–4 hours,
until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened beautifully.
Step 5: Adjust Seasoning and Serve
Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
For a thicker stew, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, then stir it into the stew and cook for an additional 10–15 minutes on HIGH until thickened.
Serve warm with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread for the ultimate comfort meal.
Variations & Tips
-
Add more flavor: A splash of balsamic vinegar or Worcestershire sauce enhances the richness.
-
More veggies: Add potatoes, parsnips, or peas for a heartier version.
-
Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch instead of all-purpose flour.
-
No wine? Substitute with extra beef broth plus 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar.
Storage Tips
-
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
-
Freeze: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
-
Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
-
Calories: ~350 kcal
-
Protein: 32g
-
Carbohydrates: 14g
-
Fat: 18g
-
Fiber: 2g
-
Sodium: ~420mg