Post Views: 26

Table of Contents

Slow Cooker Thick & Chunky Beef Stew – A Hearty Comfort Food Classic

When the weather turns chilly, nothing satisfies quite like a warm bowl of Slow Cooker Thick & Chunky Beef Stew. This rich, flavorful stew combines tender beef cubes, fresh vegetables, and a savory broth that simmers low and slow for hours, creating the perfect comfort food.

Whether you’re craving a cozy weeknight meal or planning a family dinner, this hearty beef stew recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Thick & Chunky Beef Stew

1 pound lean cubed chuck beef (room temperature)
4 cups beef broth
1 cup red wine (optional, for depth of flavor)
3 carrots, sliced
3 celery stalks, sliced
1/2 cup roasted bell peppers, chopped
2 potatoes, peeled and diced
1 yellow onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bay leaf
3 sprigs fresh thyme (or 2 tsp dried thyme)
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2–3 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Beef

Pat dry the cubed chuck beef with a kitchen towel or paper towel. Season generously with salt and pepper on all sides. Lightly dredge each cube in all-purpose flour, shaking off the excess. This step locks in flavor and helps thicken the stew later.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Sear the beef cubes in batches (avoid overcrowding) until all sides are browned. This caramelization adds a deep, rich flavor to the stew.

Step 3: Transfer to Slow Cooker

Add the browned beef, along with any juices from the pan, into the slow cooker insert.

Step 4: Add Vegetables & Seasonings

Stir in the carrots, celery, roasted bell peppers, potatoes, onion, and garlic. Add the bay leaf and thyme for an aromatic flavor base.

Step 5: Pour in Broth & Wine

Pour in beef broth and optional red wine, making sure the beef and vegetables are well covered. Give everything a gentle stir.

Step 6: Cook Low and Slow

Cover the slow cooker and cook on:

Low for 6–8 hours (best for tender beef and rich flavor), or
High for 3–4 hours if you’re short on time.

Step 7: Final Touches

Before serving, remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the thick and chunky beef stew into bowls and serve hot. Pair with crusty bread or mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort meal.

Why You’ll Love This Beef Stew

Chunky vegetables – a hearty bite in every spoonful
Tender beef – slow cooking makes it melt-in-your-mouth delicious
Rich broth – layers of flavor from beef stock and optional wine
Set it and forget it – minimal prep, maximum flavor
Perfect for leftovers – tastes even better the next day!

Recipe Variations & Substitutions

Gluten-free option: Use cornstarch instead of flour for dredging.
No wine? Replace with extra beef broth.
Extra veggies: Add mushrooms, parsnips, or green beans.
Thicker stew: Mix 1 tbsp flour with 2 tbsp broth to make a slurry, then stir in during the last 30 minutes.
Herb twist: Add rosemary or parsley for extra depth.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth.
Freeze: Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Final Thoughts

With every spoonful of this Slow Cooker Thick & Chunky Beef Stew, you’ll enjoy tender beef, chunky vegetables, and a broth so flavorful it feels like a warm hug. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or cozy weekends at home.

Save this recipe and make it for your loved ones – it’s guaranteed to bring warmth and comfort to your table.

Slow Cooker Thick & Chunky Beef Stew: