Slow Cooker Beef and Mushroom Stew

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prep the Ingredients

Start by cubing the beef and chopping all your vegetables. Slice the mushrooms, dice the carrots, and chop the celery and onions. Mince the garlic cloves for a fragrant addition to the stew.

2. Sear the Beef (Optional)

While this step is optional, browning the beef in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker can enhance the flavors. Heat a bit of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the beef cubes until they have a nice brown crust on the outside. This will add depth and a rich, meaty flavor to the stew.

3. Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

In the slow cooker, add all the ingredients: beef, mushrooms, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, beef broth, wine (if using), tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine. If you’d like a thicker stew, mix the flour (or cornstarch for a gluten-free option) with a little water to create a slurry, then add it to the pot.

4. Cook the Stew

Cover the slow cooker and set it to Low for 7-8 hours or High for 4-5 hours. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, and the beef will turn incredibly tender.

5. Serve and Garnish

Once done, taste the stew and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle it into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Stew

• Add Depth with Wine: Red wine gives the stew a richer, deeper flavor. If you’re avoiding alcohol, you can substitute with extra beef broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar.
• Searing the Meat: While it’s optional, searing adds a caramelized flavor that takes the stew to the next level. If you’re in a rush, feel free to skip it—this stew is still delicious without it.
• Customize Vegetables: Feel free to add or swap veggies based on your preferences. Potatoes, parsnips, and peas make excellent additions to this stew.
• Thickening Tips: For a thicker consistency, stir in a little extra flour or cornstarch slurry toward the end of the cooking time. You can also use mashed potatoes for a natural thickening agent.

Recipe Variations

• Herb Lovers’ Stew: Add fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, bay leaves, or sage for an extra layer of flavor.
• Vegan Option: Swap the beef for hearty root vegetables like sweet potatoes and use vegetable broth. Mushrooms provide a meaty texture, and you can add plant-based protein like chickpeas or beans.
• Low-Carb Stew: Replace carrots and potatoes with low-carb veggies like zucchini and cauliflower to make this stew keto-friendly.

Storage and Leftover Tips

This stew stores wonderfully! Here’s how to make the most of your leftovers:

• Refrigerator: Store the stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
• Freezer: This stew is also freezer-friendly. Freeze in individual portions in airtight containers or freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Pairing Suggestions

For a complete meal, serve this stew with:

• Side of Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the rich broth.
• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Spoon the stew over a bed of mashed potatoes for an extra comforting touch.
• Red Wine: A bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot complements the flavors in this stew beautifully.