Looking for a comforting meal that’s both delicious and good for you? This Healthy Slow Cooker Beef Stew is an easy and nourishing addition to your repertoire of Healthy Crock Pot Dinners. You can enjoy a hearty, flavorful stew with minimal effort.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Lean Beef Stew Meat: Choose chuck roast and cut into 1-inch pieces, or buy pre-cut.
- Beef Broth: Use low-sodium beef broth for better control over saltiness. Vegetable broth works in a pinch.
- Root Vegetables: Carrots, potatoes, and celery are classic. You can add parsnips or sweet potatoes for variety.
- Tomato Paste: Adds depth of flavor. If you don’t have paste, a small amount of crushed tomatoes can work, but the flavor will be less concentrated.
- Herbs: Dried thyme and bay leaf are essential. Fresh herbs can be used, but adjust the quantity (typically use three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried).
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds lean beef stew meat, trimmed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 celery stalks, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1.5 pounds Yukon gold or red potatoes, scrubbed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons cold water (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low, or 3-4 hours on high
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes to 8 hours 20 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Tools Needed: Slow cooker (6-quart or larger), large skillet (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Beef
If you prefer a richer flavor, you can sear the beef first. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes in batches for 2-3 minutes per side.
2. Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
Add the browned beef (if using), chopped onion, minced garlic, carrots, celery, and potatoes to your slow cooker. You are building the foundation for your delicious stew.
3. Add Liquids and Seasonings
Pour in the beef broth and stir in the tomato paste. Add the dried thyme and bay leaves. Season generously with salt and black pepper.
4. Cook Until Tender
Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The beef should be fork-tender and the vegetables soft.
5. Thicken (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker stew, whisk together cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl. Stir this slurry into the hot stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will help the stew reach your desired consistency.
6. Serve and Garnish
Remove the bay leaves before serving. Ladle the hot stew into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy your nourishing meal.
Variation Ideas
- Add More Vegetables: Include mushrooms, green beans, or peas during the last hour of cooking.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
- Different Herbs: Experiment with rosemary or sage for a different aromatic profile.
- Grain Boost: Serve over brown rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
Storage Instructions
You can store leftover Healthy Slow Cooker Beef Stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm portions on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave until heated through. The flavors often deepen overnight.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, you can use frozen mixed vegetables. Add them during the last hour of cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.
- What kind of beef is best for stew? Lean beef stew meat or chuck roast cut into cubes works best. These cuts become tender and flavorful during slow cooking.
- Can I make this stew ahead of time? Absolutely! This stew is perfect for meal prep. The flavors often improve the next day, making it a great Healthy Crock Pot Dinner option.
- Is this recipe gluten-free? As written, if you use a gluten-free broth and cornstarch, it is gluten-free. Always check your ingredient labels.
- Can I skip browning the beef? Yes, you can skip browning the beef to save time, but searing adds an extra layer of flavor. It will still be a delicious Healthy Crock Pot Dinner.
- How do I adjust the thickness? For a thinner stew, add a little more broth. For a thicker stew, use the cornstarch slurry method as described in step 5.