2 People Easy Crockpot Vegetable Beef Stew Recipe Guide

There’s nothing quite like a comforting bowl of hearty vegetable beef stew to warm you up on a chilly evening. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy date night or just want a simple, fuss-free meal for two, this easy crockpot vegetable beef stew recipe is your new best friend.

Packed with tender chunks of beef, vibrant vegetables, and rich, savory broth, it’s an all-in-one meal that requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor. Plus, using the slow cooker means you can set it and forget it—perfect for busy days or when you want dinner waiting for you at the end of the day.

This recipe is designed specifically for two people, so there’s no waste or leftovers if you prefer smaller portions. It’s nutritious, filling, and customizable to suit your taste preferences.

Whether you’re a slow cooker newbie or a seasoned pro, you’ll find this recipe straightforward and rewarding. Let’s dive into why this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple and Convenient: With just a few basic ingredients and your trusty crockpot, dinner practically makes itself. No standing over the stove for hours!

Perfect Portion Size: Sized just right for two, so you won’t have to worry about leftovers or scaled-down recipes that lose flavor.

Nutritious and Balanced: Loaded with protein-rich beef, fiber-packed vegetables, and wholesome seasonings, it’s a well-rounded meal that satisfies both the body and soul.

Flexible and Customizable: Easily swap or add your favorite veggies or seasonings to tailor the stew exactly to your liking.

Great for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and enjoy leftovers that taste even better the next day, or freeze portions for quick future meals.

Ingredients

• 8 oz beef stew meat (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 celery stalk, chopped
• 1 cup beef broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for thickening)

Equipment

• Crockpot / Slow Cooker (at least 3.5-quart capacity)
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Mixing bowl (for tossing beef with flour)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Skillet (optional, for searing beef)

Instructions

1. Prepare the beef: In a mixing bowl, toss the beef stew meat with 2 tablespoons of flour until evenly coated. This helps thicken the stew later.
2. Sear the beef (optional but recommended): Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef pieces and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. This step adds depth of flavor but can be skipped if short on time.
3. Add vegetables to the crockpot: Place the chopped carrots, potato, onion, celery, and minced garlic into the slow cooker.
4. Combine beef and liquids: Add the seared (or unseared) beef on top of the vegetables. Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and stir in the tomato paste.
5. Season: Sprinkle thyme, salt, and pepper over the mixture. Drop in the bay leaf.
6. Cook low and slow: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The beef should be tender, and the vegetables soft.
7. Add peas: About 20 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas. Cover and continue cooking to heat through.
8. Finish and serve: Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, ideally with a side of crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra hearty stew, add a splash of red wine to the broth before cooking—it adds a wonderful depth of flavor!”

• Vegetable swaps: Feel free to add turnips, parsnips, or mushrooms for variety.
• Thicken the stew: If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir into the crockpot 15 minutes before the end of cooking.
• Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to coat the beef.
• Slow cooker alternatives: If you don’t have a crockpot, you can simmer this stew on the stove over low heat for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of chili powder for subtle heat—learn more about making your own spice blends in our Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetable beef stew pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it with a warm, crusty baguette or some garlic bread for dipping.

For a low-carb option, mashed cauliflower or a simple green salad with vinaigrette are excellent choices.

If you’re looking for a heartier meal, spoon the stew over creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles. For those who enjoy a bit of tang, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives elevates the flavors wonderfully.

Conclusion

This 2-person easy crockpot vegetable beef stew recipe is a fantastic option for anyone craving a wholesome, flavorful meal without the hassle. It’s perfectly portioned, nutritious, and flexible enough to adjust to your pantry staples or seasonal veggies.

The slow cooker does the heavy lifting, allowing you to come home to a delicious, tender stew that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you’re cooking for a special someone or simply want a comforting meal after a long day, this stew will not disappoint.

If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also love our Amazing Vegan Pasta Recipes for Easy Delicious Meals for a plant-based twist or dive into some Awesome Vegetarian Slow Cooker Recipes for Easy Meals for more slow cooker inspiration.

For those looking to add depth to their spice rack, check out our Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend. Happy cooking and enjoy your cozy stew!

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