Easy Crockpot Beef Stew with Gravy for Those Busy Days

Are you tired of coming home after a long day and feeling stressed about making a warm, healthy meal? Slow-cooker meals are a lifesaver during the fall and winter, and this crockpot beef stew with gravy is a perfect choice.

Just prepare your ingredients in the morning, and let it simmer while you’re at work or out running errands. This hearty dish will keep your family cozy and satisfied!

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Ingredients Needed to Make Crockpot Beef Stew With Gravy

• 2 lbs stew meat
• 1 onion – chopped
• 3 large carrots – peeled and sliced
• 2 stalks celery – diced
• ¾ lb petite potatoes cut into quarters
• ½ bag frozen green beans (you can use fresh green beans if you like)
• ½ tsp pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 cups beef broth

Variations to This Recipe

Add More Vegetables: Include other vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.

Use Different Potatoes: Swap petite potatoes for regular size potatoes or use sweet potatoes for a different taste.

Include Tomato: Stir in a can of diced tomatoes or a tablespoon of tomato paste for a slightly tangy flavor.

Tips for Making The Best Crockpot Beef Stew With Gravy

1. Use Quality Meat: Choose chuck roast or stew meat with some marbling for tenderness and flavor.
2. Prep Ahead: Chop vegetables and meat the night before and store them in the fridge to save time in the morning.
3. Layer Wisely: Place the meat on the bottom of the crockpot. Place the vegetables on top of the meat.
4. Avoid Overfilling: Don’t fill the crockpot more than two-thirds full to ensure even cooking.

Equipment Needed

• Crockpot (Slow Cooker)
• Cutting Board
• Chef’s Knife
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Mixing Bowl
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula

How to Make Crockpot Beef Stew with Gravy

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Chop the stew meat into bite-sized pieces. Peel and slice the carrots. Chop the onion and celery into small pieces. If using fresh green beans, trim and cut them into smaller pieces.
2. Layer in the Slow Cooker: Place the chopped meat in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the diced carrots, chopped onion, diced celery, and green beans on top of the meat.
3. Season the Mixture: Sprinkle in the pepper and garlic powder over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
4. Add the Beef Broth: Pour the beef broth over the meat and vegetables, making sure everything is well covered.
5. Thicken the Gravy: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker until well combined.
6. Cook the Stew: Cover the slow cooker with the lid. Set the cooker to high and cook for 6 to 8 hours. Cooking time may vary based on your specific slow cooker, so check for doneness and tenderness of the meat after about 6 hours.

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings and has a prep time of about 10 minutes, with a total cooking time of 6 to 8 hours depending on your slow cooker.

How to Store Crockpot Beef Stew With Gravy

1. Cool the Stew: Allow the stew to cool to room temperature. This helps prevent condensation and moisture buildup in the storage container.
2. Use Airtight Containers: Transfer the cooled stew into airtight containers. Glass containers with tight-fitting lids work well.
3. Portion for Easy Access: If you plan to reheat only small portions, consider dividing the stew into individual servings in smaller containers.
4. Label and Date: Label each container with the contents and the date it was made. This will help you keep track of freshness.
5. Refrigerate or Freeze: Store the stew in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the stew for up to 3 months. Just ensure the container is freezer-safe to avoid cracking.
6. Reheating Tips:

• Refrigerated Stew: Reheat on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally.
• Frozen Stew: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. If you need to reheat from frozen, you can do so in a pot over low heat or in the microwave, stirring often until fully heated.

By following these steps, you can enjoy your delicious beef stew for days to come!

FAQs about Crockpot Beef Stew with Gravy

Can you overcook beef stew in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can overcook crockpot beef stew with gravy. If you cook it for too long, the meat can become tough and mushy. It’s best to stick to the recommended cooking time of 6 to 8 hours on high or 8 to 10 hours on low for the best texture.

What not to put in beef stew?

When making crockpot beef stew with gravy, avoid adding delicate vegetables like zucchini or spinach, as they can become mushy during long cooking times. Also, steer clear of dairy products until the end, as they can curdle in the slow cooker.

Is it better to use beef broth or stock for stew?

For crockpot beef stew with gravy, beef broth is often better because it’s usually more flavorful and has a fuller flavor. However, beef stock can also work well, especially if you want a more robust flavor. You can even mix both for a deeper taste!

More Delicious Recipes:

Personalize Your Fall Cooking with Printable Recipe Cards and Gift Tags!

If you’re making a cozy batch of crockpot beef stew with gravy to share with a friend or neighbor, why not make it even more special? You can include my printable fall recipe cards and gift tags! These pretty cards are perfect for writing down this delicious stew recipe so they can make it at home, too.

The gift tags add a nice touch to your homemade meal and make it feel extra thoughtful. Your kind gesture will surely brighten their day!

You can grab them in my Etsy shop and make your comforting gifts even more personal!

Conclusion

Including beef stew with gravy made in the crockpot into your meal routine is a game changer, especially during the fall and winter months when comfort food is a must.

With just a little prep in the morning, you can come home to a warm, satisfying dinner that the whole family will love. Plus, this recipe is incredibly forgiving—you can tweak it to your heart’s content with different veggies or spices.

So, whether you’re hosting family, having a cozy night in, or looking for a meal that provides leftovers for busy lunches, this stew is your go-to.

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