As the temperatures drop and the air turns crisp, few dishes offer the kind of warmth and satisfaction that a classic beef stew provides. This slow cooker 5-ingredient beef stew is a lifesaver when your schedule is packed but you crave a nourishing, homemade meal. With minimal ingredients and prep, it lets you come home to a pot of tender beef and perfectly cooked vegetables simmered in rich broth. The simplicity of this recipe doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor — it’s the essence of comfort food made easy. I discovered this stew on a particularly busy week and now it’s a go-to whenever life demands a little less fuss but a lot of heartiness.
This stew is excellent on its own or paired with crusty bread or a warm biscuit that soaks up every last bit of the delicious broth. For a balanced meal, consider adding a fresh green salad or steamed green beans. Mashed potatoes on the side turn this stew into a truly indulgent feast, perfect for sharing with family or friends.
Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Beef Stew
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cups beef broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
Place beef stew meat in the bottom of the slow cooker. Layer carrots, potatoes, and onion over the beef. Pour beef broth over all ingredients. Season with salt and pepper. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours until beef is tender and vegetables are cooked through. Stir before serving and adjust seasoning as needed.
Nutrition and Dietary Notes:
This beef stew provides a good balance of protein from the beef and complex carbohydrates from the potatoes and carrots. It is naturally low in added sugars and can be a nutrient-dense choice, supplying vitamins from the vegetables and minerals from the broth. While hearty and filling, those watching sodium intake should use low-sodium broth and season cautiously. This recipe is naturally gluten-free and can be adapted for various dietary preferences by adjusting seasoning or adding more veggies.
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