Crockpot Beef Stew with Gravy: 3 Easy & Delicious Options

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Welcome to this hearty and flavorful recipe for Crockpot Beef Stew with Gravy. I’m Chef Luna, and today, I’m excited to share with you three easy and delicious ways to make this classic comfort dish. Whether you’re looking for a simple crockpot beef stew with gravy, a quick version using brown gravy mix, or a more traditional approach, these recipes will satisfy your cravings and fill your kitchen with delightful aromas.

With just a few ingredients and a bit of patience, you’ll have a rich, savory stew with tender beef and thick, flavorful gravy. The slow-cooked magic of the Crockpot brings out the best in this dish, making it perfect for busy days or when you want to impress your family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into these easy-to-make recipes that will elevate your stew game!

Key Benefits

Making Crockpot Beef Stew with Gravy offers several key benefits that will make it your go-to dish for any occasion:

Hands-off Cooking: Once you add the ingredients to your Crockpot, you can relax while it works its slow-cooking magic. The beef becomes tender, and the flavors develop without much effort.
Rich, Flavorful Gravy: The slow cooker allows the beef and vegetables to release their natural juices, creating a thick, flavorful gravy that elevates the entire dish.
Versatile and Customizable: Whether you prefer a simple crockpot beef stew with gravy, a shortcut using brown gravy mix, or a classic slow-cooked version with onion soup mix, this recipe offers options for every taste and time constraint.
Perfect for Meal Prep: This stew reheats beautifully, making it a great choice for leftovers or preparing ahead for busy weeks.
Comfort Food: With tender beef, vegetables, and savory gravy, this stew is a comforting, satisfying meal perfect for cold days or any time you need a little extra warmth.

With these benefits in mind, let’s get into the ingredients you’ll need to make these delicious options.

Ingredients

For Crockpot Beef Stew with Gravy, you’ll need a few simple ingredients to create a hearty and delicious meal. Here are the options based on the three different approaches:

Option 1: Simple Crockpot Beef Stew with Gravy

2 pounds of beef stew meat (diced)
4 cups beef broth
1 packet brown gravy mix
1 medium onion, chopped
4 medium carrots, sliced
3 medium potatoes, cubed
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Option 2: Easy Beef Stew with Brown Gravy Mix

2 pounds of beef stew meat
1 packet of brown gravy mix
1 packet of onion soup mix
4 cups water
4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
3 carrots, peeled and chopped
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste

A Crockpot filled with simmering beef stew with gravy, showing tender beef and vegetables. — Enjoy the irresistible aroma of simmering Crockpot beef stew with gravy, a meal that brings warmth and satisfaction to every bite.

Option 3: Traditional Beef Stew Recipe (Slow Cooker)

2 pounds of beef stew meat, cut into cubes
1 onion, chopped
4 cups beef broth
3 tablespoons tomato paste
1 packet onion soup mix
3 carrots, peeled and sliced
2 medium potatoes, cubed
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried)
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste

Each of these ingredients will help create the perfect base for your Crockpot Beef Stew with Gravy, allowing you to choose between quick options or a more traditional, slow-cooked version. Now, let’s dive into the instructions for each!

Instructions

Option 1: Simple Crockpot Beef Stew with Gravy

Prepare the beef: Season the beef stew meat with salt and pepper. Place it at the bottom of the Crockpot.
Add the vegetables: Add the chopped onion, sliced carrots, and cubed potatoes to the Crockpot.
Mix the gravy: In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth and brown gravy mix until smooth. Pour this mixture over the beef and vegetables in the Crockpot.
Cook: Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are fully cooked.
Serve: Once ready, give the stew a gentle stir and serve hot with your favorite side.

Option 2: Easy Beef Stew with Brown Gravy Mix

Brown the beef: Season the beef stew meat with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the beef in a little oil for about 5 minutes.
Combine in Crockpot: Transfer the browned beef to the Crockpot. Add the chopped potatoes, carrots, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and the packets of brown gravy mix and onion soup mix.
Add liquid: Pour 4 cups of water into the Crockpot and stir to combine.
Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or until the beef is tender and the gravy has thickened.
Serve: Stir and serve your beef stew hot with fresh bread on the side.

Option 3: Traditional Beef Stew Recipe (Slow Cooker)

Prepare the beef: Season the beef stew meat with salt and pepper. Brown the beef in a skillet over medium heat, then transfer it to the Crockpot.
Add the vegetables: Add the chopped onion, carrots, cubed potatoes, and minced garlic to the Crockpot.
Add liquids and seasonings: Stir in the beef broth, tomato paste, onion soup mix, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaf. Mix everything together.
Cook: Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
Serve: Discard the bay leaf, stir the stew, and serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired.

Each option offers a different level of preparation, from simple to traditional, but all will result in a comforting and flavorful Crockpot Beef Stew with Gravy that your family will love.

Pro Tips and Variations

Pro Tips:

For a Thicker Gravy: If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can make a slurry by mixing 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with a bit of cold water. Add this mixture during the last 30 minutes of cooking to thicken the stew.
Searing the Beef: Although not necessary, searing the beef before adding it to the Crockpot will help enhance the flavor of the stew by creating a caramelized exterior on the meat.
Adjust the Vegetables: You can customize your stew by adding other vegetables such as parsnips, celery, or green beans. Just chop them into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
Flavor Boost: For extra depth of flavor, add a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar when cooking the beef, or sprinkle in some fresh rosemary or thyme for added fragrance.
Freezing Leftovers: This stew freezes well! Just let it cool completely and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the Crockpot when you’re ready to enjoy again.

Variations:

Pioneer Woman Beef Stew Crockpot: To get that signature Pioneer Woman flavor, try adding a tablespoon of Dijon mustard, some bay leaves, and a pinch of smoked paprika to your stew. These ingredients will add a rustic, comforting taste.
Slow Cooker Beef Stew with Onion Soup Mix: If you’re short on time, using onion soup mix not only simplifies the recipe but adds a deliciously savory, oniony flavor that complements the beef and gravy perfectly.
For a Healthier Option: Swap the potatoes for sweet potatoes or add more leafy greens like spinach or kale in the last 30 minutes of cooking for a nutritious twist.
Diced Beef Recipes: If you prefer not to make a stew, try using diced beef for a different texture. Cube the beef and cook it with a rich gravy for a heartier, non-stew dish. This is perfect for serving over rice or mashed potatoes.

With these tips and variations, you can make the Crockpot Beef Stew with Gravy exactly how you like it, whether you prefer it classic, quick, or a bit more adventurous!

Serving Suggestions

Crockpot Beef Stew with Gravy is a versatile dish that can be served in many different ways to complement its rich flavors. Here are a few serving ideas to enhance your meal:

Serve with Fresh Bread: Nothing beats a warm, crusty loaf of bread to soak up the delicious gravy. Try serving your stew with French bread, baguettes, or even buttery dinner rolls.
Over Mashed Potatoes: If you love extra comfort food, serve the stew over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes. The smooth potatoes will absorb the gravy and make every bite even more satisfying.
Pair with Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or parsnips adds a nice contrast to the rich stew and complements the hearty flavors.
Topped with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley, thyme, or rosemary on top for a fresh, aromatic finish. The herbs brighten the dish and provide a burst of color.
Serve with Rice: If you’re looking to add some carbs, rice works wonderfully with the beef stew, as it will soak up all the flavorful gravy.
Make it a Full Meal: Pair the stew with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal, or add some cheese on the side, like grated Parmesan or a bit of sharp cheddar.

These simple serving suggestions will turn your Crockpot Beef Stew with Gravy into a comforting and complete meal for any occasion.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Crockpot Beef Stew with Gravy is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and full of rich flavors. Whether you choose the simple version with brown gravy mix, the classic slow-cooked approach with onion soup mix, or a traditional recipe using fresh ingredients, this dish is sure to please everyone at your table. The slow cooker makes it effortless to create a hearty, tender stew that will warm you up on even the coldest days.

As Chef Luna, I can confidently say this recipe is not only a great weeknight meal but also an excellent option for meal prepping or hosting a cozy dinner with loved ones. Plus, with the flexibility to customize it to your preferences, you’ll never get bored of this classic dish. I hope these three easy and delicious options inspire you to make your own version of Crockpot Beef Stew with Gravy!

FAQ

Can I use frozen beef for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen beef stew meat. However, make sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge for the best results, as cooking from frozen might affect the texture and cooking time. If using frozen beef, cook the stew on low for a little longer, about 8-9 hours.

How do I make the gravy thicker?

If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can add a cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking. Mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with a bit of cold water and stir it into the stew. Let it cook for another 30 minutes until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.

Can I make this stew without a Crockpot?

Absolutely! If you don’t have a Crockpot, you can make this recipe on the stove. Brown the beef in a large pot, add the vegetables and liquids, then simmer on low for about 2-3 hours until the beef is tender and the flavors are well developed.

Can I substitute the potatoes with something else?

Yes, if you’re looking for a low-carb option, you can substitute potatoes with sweet potatoes, turnips, or even cauliflower. These alternatives will absorb the gravy beautifully and provide a different flavor profile.

Can I prepare this stew in advance?

Yes! Crockpot Beef Stew with Gravy stores very well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes beautifully, so you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just reheat on the stovetop or in the Crockpot when ready to enjoy.