Slow Cooker Chunky Beef and Potato Stew

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There’s nothing quite as comforting as a hearty, slow-cooked beef and potato stew. This rich, flavorful dish is packed with tender chunks of beef, soft potatoes, and a medley of vegetables, all simmered in a savory tomato-based broth. Whether you’re craving a cozy meal on a chilly evening or a simple yet satisfying dinner for the whole family, this slow cooker recipe is the perfect solution. Best of all, it requires minimal effort—just a bit of prep, and your slow cooker does the rest.

Ingredients

Each ingredient plays a key role in developing deep, savory flavors and a perfect texture:

  • 2 pounds lean chuck stew meat – Chuck is ideal for stews because it becomes incredibly tender when slow-cooked.
  • 1/4 cup flour – Coating the beef in flour helps create a thick, rich broth and improves browning.
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided – Adds richness and depth to both the beef and sautéed vegetables.
  • 3 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into large bite-sized pieces – Potatoes absorb the flavors of the broth while adding heartiness.
  • 14.5 ounces fire-roasted diced tomatoes – Enhances the stew with a smoky, slightly sweet tomato flavor.
  • 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained – Adds fresh acidity and texture to the broth.
  • 1 (14.5-ounce) can tomato sauce – Provides a smooth, thick base for the stew.
  • 1 (10.75-ounce) can condensed beef broth – Deepens the umami richness of the stew.
  • 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies – Introduces a mild kick of heat to balance the richness.
  • 1 cup chopped onion – Contributes a sweet, aromatic depth to the base.
  • 1 cup chopped celery – Adds a slight crunch and enhances the stew’s savory undertones.
  • 1 cup chopped carrots – Brings a natural sweetness that complements the acidity of the tomatoes.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Adds a warm, earthy aroma that enhances the dish’s complexity.
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme – Provides a subtle, woodsy note that pairs well with beef.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Gives a gentle heat and balances the other spices.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt – Enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Adds a deep, savory umami boost.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sear the Beef for Maximum Flavor

  • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Dredge the beef pieces in flour, ensuring each piece is lightly coated.
  • Sear the beef in batches, cooking until browned on all sides (about 3-4 minutes per batch).
  • Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

  • Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in the same skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots.
  • Cook for about 5 minutes, or until softened and aromatic.

3. Assemble Everything in the Slow Cooker

  • Add the seared beef, potatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, and diced tomatoes with green chilies into the slow cooker.
  • Stir in the oregano, thyme, black pepper, salt, and Worcestershire sauce.
  • Give everything a good stir to combine all ingredients evenly.

4. Let It Slow Cook to Perfection

  • Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the beef is fall-apart tender.

5. Serve and Enjoy

  • Ladle the hot stew into bowls and serve with crusty bread or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Minimal prep time – After a few simple steps, the slow cooker does all the work.
  • Rich, hearty, and filling – Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping.
  • Layers of deep, savory flavor – The combination of fire-roasted tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and slow-cooked beef creates an unforgettable taste.
  • Versatile and customizable – Easily adapt it with different vegetables or seasonings.

Pro Tips for the Best Chunky Beef and Potato Stew

  • For extra depth of flavor, deglaze the skillet with a splash of red wine or beef broth after searing the beef. Pour the liquid into the slow cooker.
  • Want a thicker stew? Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water, then stir it into the stew 30 minutes before serving.
  • Prefer extra veggies? Stir in frozen peas, green beans, or corn during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
  • For even more tenderness, let the stew rest for 10 minutes before serving—this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

This slow cooker beef and potato stew is satisfying on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal:

  • Crusty bread or garlic toast – Perfect for soaking up every bit of the flavorful broth.
  • Mashed potatoes – Double up on comfort by serving the stew over creamy mashed potatoes.
  • Rice or egg noodles – A great way to stretch the meal further.
  • Side salad – A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Chunky Beef and Potato Stew is the ultimate comfort food, delivering bold flavors and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness with minimal effort. Whether you're making it for a family dinner, meal prep, or a cozy weekend meal, this foolproof recipe is guaranteed to impress.

Give it a try today, and experience the rich, hearty satisfaction of a perfectly slow-cooked beef stew. If you love this recipe, don’t forget to share it with friends and family!