Slow Cooker Ground Beef Stew

Enjoy the rich nostalgia of classic slow-cooked beef stew at a fraction of the cost with this Slow Cooker Ground Beef Stew. Browned seasoned beef simmers alongside hearty russet potatoes, sweet carrots, celery, and tender peas in a thick, savory herbed beef gravy. Wholesome, budget-friendly comfort food the whole family will devour.

Looking for more comforting weeknight inspiration? Be sure to check out our popular Crockpot Beef Stew for another family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Ground Beef Stew

• Quick & Simple: Straightforward pantry ingredients and simple steps make this ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich, Nourishing Flavor: Wholesome ingredients simmer together into a deeply satisfying, restaurant-quality bowl.
• Meal Prep Perfection: Tastes even more flavorful the next day, making weekday lunches effortless.
• Customizable & Adaptable: Easy to adjust spices, proteins, or garnishes to fit your dietary preferences.

Key Ingredients for Slow Cooker Ground Beef Stew

Here is what gives this dish its incredible texture and unforgettable flavor:

• 1 pound: Fresh and high-quality for optimal savoriness.
• 4 cups: Fresh and high-quality for optimal savoriness.
• 3 cups: Fresh and high-quality for optimal savoriness.
• 2 cups: Fresh and high-quality for optimal savoriness.
• 1 cup: Fresh and high-quality for optimal savoriness.

How to Make Slow Cooker Ground Beef Stew

Follow these straightforward steps to achieve a perfectly balanced, velvety soup every single time:

• Sauté & Build Aromatics: Gently cook your base vegetables until tender and fragrant to unlock their natural sweetness.
• Simmer & Melp Flavors: Pour in the broth and base ingredients, letting everything bubble gently so the flavors meld into harmony.
• Add the Finishing Touches: Stir in tender vegetables, cheeses, or creams right before serving for peak vibrancy.
• Garnish & Serve Warm: Ladle into warm bowls and top generously with fresh herbs, crisp toppings, or warm crusty bread.

Chef Tips for the Best Results

• Do Not Rush the Simmer: Allowing the soup to cook over medium-low heat unlocks richer aromatics and depth.
• Taste Before Seasoning: Check the broth before adding final salt, especially if using seasoned broths or salty cheeses.
• Storage & Freezing: Allow the soup to cool completely before chilling in airtight glass containers for up to 4 days.

Slow Cooker Ground Beef Stew

A comforting and hearty slow cooker ground beef stew perfect for chilly nights.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 6 minutes mins

Total Time 6 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound ground beef
• 4 cups beef broth
• 3 cups diced potatoes
• 2 cups carrots, sliced
• 1 cup celery, chopped
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste

Method

 

1. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
2. Add beef to slow cooker along with broth, potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir to combine.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.
5. Serve hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to brown the ground beef before putting it in the slow cooker?

Yes! Browning the meat first renders excess fat and develops delicious caramelized savory flavor.

What vegetables can I add to ground beef stew?

Carrots, celery, peas, corn, and green beans are all fantastic additions that hold up well during slow cooking.

How do I thicken the stew gravy?

Stir in a quick cornstarch slurry (2 tablespoons cornstarch whisked with cold water) 20 minutes before serving.

Can I freeze leftover beef stew?

Yes! Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.