Crockpot Ground Beef Stew: A Hearty and Easy Recipe for Cozy Nights
If you’re craving a warm, comforting meal that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor, look no further than this Crockpot Ground Beef Stew. This delicious, hearty recipe is the perfect solution for busy nights when you want something filling and nutritious with minimal effort. Simply prepare your ingredients, add them to the crockpot, and let the slow cooker do its magic!
Why Crockpot Ground Beef Stew?
Ground beef stew is a great choice because it’s:
- Budget-friendly: Ground beef is generally more affordable than other meats, and it’s ideal for stews.
- Family-approved: With its savory, rich taste, this stew is sure to be a hit for all ages.
- Effortless: Just prep and set your crockpot, then come back to a delicious meal!
Let’s dive into the details to make this flavorful stew.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather these simple ingredients to get started. Most are pantry staples, which means fewer trips to the store!
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4-5 medium potatoes, diced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 bay leaf (optional)
- Optional: Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce for added depth of flavor
Pro Tip: If you prefer a thicker stew, add a tablespoon of tomato paste or a slurry of 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water towards the end of cooking.
Instructions
1. Brown the Ground Beef
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Season with salt and pepper as it cooks, then drain any excess fat.
- Why brown first? Browning the meat adds depth and seals in flavors that enhance the final result.
2. Prep the Veggies
- Chop and prepare the potatoes, carrots, onion, celery, and garlic.
- For easy preparation, try using baby carrots or pre-cut frozen vegetables.
3. Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot
- Add the browned ground beef to the crockpot, followed by potatoes, carrots, onion, garlic, celery, frozen peas, frozen corn, diced tomatoes, and beef broth.
- Sprinkle in the thyme, rosemary, and add the bay leaf if using. For extra flavor, add a dash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce.
4. Cook the Stew
- Set the crockpot to low and cook for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The longer cooking time helps develop a rich, savory taste that’s perfect for a stew.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs as desired.
Pro Tip: Avoid opening the crockpot lid while it’s cooking. Each time you lift the lid, you release heat and increase cooking time by 15-20 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this stew with a side of:
- Crusty bread: Perfect for dipping and soaking up the savory broth.
- Steamed rice or mashed potatoes: For an extra-filling meal.
- A sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated cheese for added flavor and garnish.
Storage and Reheating Tips
This crockpot ground beef stew stores beautifully, making it great for meal prep:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave.
Customize Your Stew
Make this stew your own by adding or swapping ingredients:
- Vegetable options: Try adding green beans, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
- Herbs and spices: Adjust the thyme and rosemary, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Meat options: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter stew.
Final Thoughts
With this Crockpot Ground Beef Stew, dinner practically makes itself, freeing up time without compromising flavor. It’s a cozy, versatile recipe that’s perfect for the fall and winter months.
Enjoy every warm and hearty spoonful!
