Name: Crock Pot Beef Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 480 min
Total time: 495 min
Ingredients: 2 packages dry onion soup mix; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 2 pounds lean beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces; 5 medium potatoes, peeled and diced; 2 to 3 cups baby carrots; 1 small yellow onion, chopped; 2 cans cream of celery soup ((10 ounces each)); 1 cup ketchup or tomato sauce

Jump to Recipe

There’s nothing quite like coming home to the aroma of a hearty, flavorful dinner bubbling away in the kitchen. Crock Pot Beef Stew is the ultimate comfort food: it’s warm, savory, and packed with melt-in-your-mouth beef and tender vegetables. Did you know that slow-cooked stews have been a staple in kitchens for generations because of their simplicity and unbeatable taste? One of my earliest memories is of my grandmother’s slow cooker humming on a chilly day, filling our house with the promise of a delicious meal.

What makes this beef stew really stand out is how hands-off it is: just a few quick steps, and your crock pot does the heavy lifting. It’s a family-friendly one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or Sunday suppers. If you’ve ever tried my popular One Pot Chicken and Rice, you’ll love how this beef stew brings the same ease and heartiness to your table. Ready to make dinnertime special? Let’s dive in!

What is Crock Pot Beef Stew?

So, what exactly is Crock Pot Beef Stew? Well, at its core, it’s a classic slow-cooked dish featuring bite-sized pieces of beef, chunky potatoes, carrots, onions, and a creamy sauce, all simmered together for hours until everything is supremely tender. Why is it called “Crock Pot” Beef Stew? The name comes from the trusty slow cooker that does all the magic for you—no need to hover over the stove! Ever heard the saying, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach”? This dish just might prove it true, one spoonful at a time. If you’re curious and love a homestyle classic, try making this stew—your family will thank you.

Why You’ll Love This

You’ll fall head over heels for this Crock Pot Beef Stew because every spoonful is packed with rich, savory flavor, thanks to the combination of beef, potatoes, carrots, and a creamy, herby sauce. Making beef stew at home is also budget-friendly; you can feed a crowd at a fraction of the cost of eating out, using simple pantry staples and affordable cuts of meat. What sets this stew apart is the cream of celery soup and onion soup mix, which blend together for an ultra-creamy, robust flavor that’s truly crave-worthy.

If you’re a fan of my Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie, you’ll appreciate how this stew brings the same comfort and satisfaction in every bowl. Don’t wait—let this irresistible, soul-warming stew become a new tradition in your home.

How to Make

Quick Overview

Crock Pot Beef Stew is one of those cozy meals that’s as easy as it is satisfying. With just a few minutes of chopping and mixing, you can set it and forget it—your slow cooker does the rest! The creamy, savory sauce, tender chunks of beef, and melt-in-your-mouth veggies promise a meal the whole family will love. From prep to plate, you’ll spend about 15 minutes getting everything ready, then let it cook low and slow for maximum flavor.

Ingredients

2 packages dry onion soup mix
1/2 teaspoon paprika
2 pounds lean beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
5 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
2 to 3 cups baby carrots
1 small yellow onion, chopped
2 cans (10 ounces each) cream of celery soup
1 cup ketchup (or substitute with tomato sauce)

Step-by-Step

Prepare your crock pot by giving it a quick spray with nonstick cooking spray or lining it for easy cleanup.
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the dry onion soup mix and paprika.
Add the beef stew meat to the bowl, and toss until all the meat is well coated with the soup mix and paprika.
Place the coated beef into the bottom of the crock pot.
Add the diced potatoes, baby carrots, and chopped yellow onion on top of the beef.
In a separate bowl, mix together the cream of celery soup and ketchup (or tomato sauce) until smooth.
Pour the soup and ketchup mixture evenly over the beef and vegetables in the crock pot.
Cover with the lid and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours, until both the meat and vegetables are fork-tender.
Give the stew a gentle stir before serving, and enjoy!

What to Serve Crock Pot Beef Stew With

Crock Pot Beef Stew is a hearty meal all on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can really elevate dinner. Warm, crusty bread or buttery dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up the thick, savory sauce. For a fresh touch, a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds crunch and balances the richness. If you want to go a step further, serve your stew over fluffy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles. And don’t forget a glass of robust red wine or apple cider for the adults!

Top Tips for Perfecting

Getting the most from your Crock Pot Beef Stew is all about the details:

Cut the beef and veggies into similar-sized chunks so they cook evenly.
If you prefer a thicker stew, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking or mash some potatoes directly into the sauce.
No cream of celery soup on hand? Cream of mushroom or chicken soup works just as well.
Add frozen peas or corn during the last half hour for a pop of color and sweetness.
Avoid stirring the stew too often, as it can break up the vegetables and make the beef less tender.

Remember, the longer it cooks, the more the flavors meld together and the beef becomes absolutely melt-in-your-mouth.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Leftover Crock Pot Beef Stew is just as delicious the next day—maybe even better as the flavors deepen overnight! To store, let the stew cool to room temperature, then transfer into airtight containers. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes! While stew meat is convenient, you can also use chuck roast or even brisket—just cut it into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely. Feel free to add parsnips, turnips, celery, or sweet potatoes to customize the stew to your family’s taste.

How can I make this gluten-free?

Check the labels on your soup mixes for hidden gluten. Swap the cream of celery soup for a gluten-free variety and make sure all ingredients meet your dietary needs.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Definitely. Assemble everything in the crock pot insert the night before and store it in the fridge. In the morning, just pop it in the slow cooker and start cooking.

What if I don’t have a slow cooker?

No crock pot? No problem! Use a Dutch oven and cook the stew in a 325°F oven for about 3 hours, or simmer gently on the stovetop until everything is tender.

Conclusion

Crock Pot Beef Stew is comfort food at its finest: hearty, simple, and utterly delicious. With just a few ingredients, a handful of minutes for prep, and your trusty slow cooker, you can create a meal that’s sure to bring everyone to the table—even on your busiest days. From the tender beef to the creamy, flavorful sauce and perfect veggies, this stew will quickly become a family favorite. If this recipe inspired you, be sure to explore the rest of our cozy, home-cooked meals on the blog. Happy cooking!