Description

A low-effort, high-reward slow cooker beef stew that keeps your kitchen cool during summer. This recipe features tender chuck roast, root vegetables, and a rich, savory broth that deepens in flavor over time.

Ingredients

Scale

2–3 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
32 oz beef broth (low-sodium)
1 cup dry red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
2 large yellow onions, diced into large chunks
4–5 cloves garlic, minced
4–5 medium carrots, peeled and chopped into rounds
1.5 lbs red potatoes, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
2 bay leaves
2 tbsp flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)
2 tbsp butter
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cut the beef chuck roast into 1.5-inch cubes. Place in a bowl and toss with salt, pepper, and flour until lightly coated.
Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear beef cubes in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Transfer to the slow cooker.
Chop onions, carrots, and potatoes into large chunks or rounds.
Layer the vegetables into the slow cooker on top of the beef. Add tomato paste, dried thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, and garlic.
Pour in the red wine and beef broth. Ensure liquid covers most ingredients.
Cover and cook on LOW for 7-8 hours (or HIGH for 4-5 hours).
Check for doneness; beef should be fork-tender. If too thin, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water and stir into stew. Cook on HIGH for 30 minutes to thicken.
Remove bay leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot.

Notes

Do not skip searing the beef if possible, as it adds significant flavor depth. Use waxy red potatoes to prevent them from falling apart. The stew tastes better the next day as flavors meld. If using frozen beef, extend cooking time by 1-2 hours.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 7 hours
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 450
Sugar: 6
Sodium: 800
Fat: 18
Saturated Fat: 7
Carbohydrates: 35
Fiber: 5
Protein: 32

Keywords: slow cooker beef stew, crockpot dinner, summer recipes, easy beef stew, one pot meal, meal prep