Why Make This Recipe
Pioneer Woman’s Crockpot Beef Stew is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for any day of the week. With its rich flavors and hearty textures, this dish warms the heart and soul. Cooked low and slow, every ingredient melds together beautifully, leaving you with a stew that is both satisfying and delicious.
This recipe is not only easy to follow, but it allows you to prepare the meal in advance. Just set it and forget it—let your crockpot do all the work while you enjoy your day.
Equipment Needed for Pioneer Woman’s Crockpot Beef Stew
To make Pioneer Woman’s Crockpot Beef Stew, you won’t need much equipment. Here’s what you’ll need:
- A large skillet for browning the beef
- A slow cooker or crockpot
- Cutting boards
- A sharp knife
- Mixing bowls for combining ingredients
- A spoon for stirring
What You Need to Make Pioneer Woman’s Crockpot Beef Stew
Gather the following ingredients to bring this hearty stew to life:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into chunks
- 4 medium Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for browning beef)
- 2 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp cold water (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Cook Pioneer Woman’s Crockpot Beef Stew Step by Step
First, begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the beef chunks in batches. Be sure to brown the beef on all sides, which locks in flavor. After browning, transfer the beef to the crockpot.
Now it’s time to add the vegetables. Layer the diced Yukon gold potatoes, sliced carrots, chopped celery, chopped onion, and minced garlic over the beef that you placed in the crockpot.
Next, in a separate mixing bowl, combine the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until well mixed, and then pour this mixture into the crockpot over the beef and vegetables.
Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 8 to 10 hours or high for 4 to 6 hours. Your goal here is to let everything cook until the beef and vegetables are tender and infused with flavor.
If you want a thicker stew, about 30 minutes before serving, mix the cornstarch with the cold water in a small bowl until smooth. Stir this mixture into the stew and let it cook for the remaining time.
Before serving, sprinkle the stew with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve this delightful stew hot, ideally accompanied by some crusty bread.
How to Serve Pioneer Woman’s Crockpot Beef Stew
Serving Pioneer Woman’s Crockpot Beef Stew is simple yet rewarding. Use a ladle to scoop the stew into bowls, making sure to include a bit of everything—tender beef, hearty potatoes, and vibrant vegetables.
Pair it with a slice of crusty bread or a warm dinner roll for dipping. The stew is filling enough to stand alone, but adding some bread makes for a comforting addition.
For a special touch, consider serving the stew with a side salad or pickles to balance the rich flavors.
What to Serve with Pioneer Woman’s Crockpot Beef Stew
When it comes to side dishes, there are several options that pair nicely with Pioneer Woman’s Crockpot Beef Stew. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty stew.
You can also serve the stew alongside roasted vegetables for a colorful and nutritious plate. Other options include:
- Mashed potatoes to soak up the stew’s delicious broth.
- Garlic bread for a comforting carb fix.
- Steamed green beans or broccoli for an added healthy side.
How to Store Pioneer Woman’s Crockpot Beef Stew
Storing Pioneer Woman’s Crockpot Beef Stew is straightforward. Allow it to cool down completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
You can keep the stew in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to store it for a longer period, consider freezing it. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot.
Tips to Make Pioneer Woman’s Crockpot Beef Stew
To ensure your beef stew turns out perfect every time, consider these tips. First, always brown the beef. This step adds a depth of flavor that enhances the final dish.
Use fresh ingredients whenever possible, especially the vegetables. Fresh onions, carrots, and garlic will elevate the taste. If you prefer a thicker stew, remember to add the cornstarch slurry right before the end of the cooking time.
Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. Add herbs or spices according to what you have on hand or to match your flavor preferences.
Variation
If you want to switch things up, consider adding other vegetables such as parsnips or sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile. You can also add peas or green beans in the last hour of cooking for a burst of color and texture.
For a bit of heat, feel free to add some diced chilies or red pepper flakes. If you’re a fan of herbs, consider fresh rosemary or bay leaves for added fragrance.
Best Time to Make Pioneer Woman’s Crockpot Beef Stew
Pioneer Woman’s Crockpot Beef Stew is great for any time of year, but it shines particularly during the fall and winter months. Cold days make the warm, hearty stew an absolute treat.
It’s also perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends when you want to prepare a meal in advance without much fuss. Simply set it up in the morning and return to a hot, delicious dinner.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making crockpot beef stew, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. One such error is overcrowding the slow cooker. Ensure there’s enough space for the steam to circulate.
Another mistake is not browning the beef before adding it to the crockpot. This step is crucial for a flavorful stew. Additionally, avoid adding too much liquid; the vegetables will release moisture as they cook, so stick to the given amounts unless you’re making a large batch.
Nutritional Notes
Pioneer Woman’s Crockpot Beef Stew is not only delicious but also hearty. This stew provides a good balance of protein and vegetables, making it a filling meal. Each serving includes beef for protein, potatoes for carbohydrates, and various vegetables for fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
While there’s some fat and sodium from the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, you can control these amounts by choosing lower sodium options or leaner cuts of beef.
FAQs
Can I use frozen beef stew meat?
Yes, you can use frozen beef stew meat. Just remember to thaw it before you start browning it for best results.
Can I leave the stew on low overnight?
Leaving it on low overnight is not recommended. While the stew is safe to cook for long periods, 8-10 hours is the maximum. Consider using a timer to switch it off after the recommended duration.
What can I substitute for beef broth?
You can substitute beef broth with vegetable broth for a lighter version, but it will alter the flavor slightly. Chicken broth is another alternative if you prefer a different taste.
Conclusion
Pioneer Woman’s Crockpot Beef Stew is a classic meal that everyone can enjoy. Its heartiness, flavor, and ease of preparation make it the perfect addition to your recipe collection. With the right ingredients and a bit of patience, you will create a stew that warms both the body and soul.
So gather your ingredients, fire up the crockpot, and let it work its magic. You’ll be rewarded with a delicious, comforting bowl of beef stew that you can share with your loved ones. There’s nothing quite like the joy of a warm meal on a chilly day!
