There’s nothing quite as comforting as the aroma of tender beef and fresh vegetables simmering slowly to perfection. Slow cooker recipes are a lifesaver for busy cooks who want hearty, flavorful meals without spending hours in the kitchen.
By combining succulent cuts of beef with vibrant vegetables, these recipes deliver a perfect balance of nutrition, taste, and convenience. Whether you’re craving a rich stew, a savory pot roast, or a wholesome beef and vegetable medley, the slow cooker makes it effortless to prepare dishes that feel like they’ve been lovingly crafted all day long.
Plus, the long, gentle cooking process ensures every bite is melt-in-your-mouth tender and packed with deep, satisfying flavors.
If you’re ready to add some delicious slow cooker beef and veg recipes to your weekly rotation, you’re in the right place. These recipes are perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or cozy weekend feasts.
Let’s dive into why you’ll love them and how to make them your own!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Slow cooker beef and vegetable recipes are the ultimate comfort food with minimal effort. The slow and steady cooking method allows the beef to become incredibly tender while the vegetables soak up all those delicious juices and spices.
Hands-off cooking means you can prep in the morning and come home to a ready-made meal. It’s perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekends.
Additionally, these dishes are versatile and easy to customize with your favorite veggies and seasonings. Whether you prefer a classic beef stew or want to experiment with bold spices, the slow cooker adapts to your taste.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 2-inch cubes
- 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with more broth)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
Equipment
- Slow cooker (6-quart or larger recommended)
- Large skillet for browning beef
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
- Serving bowls or plates
Instructions
- Prepare the beef: Pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Brown the beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add beef cubes in batches and brown on all sides, about 3 minutes per side. Transfer browned beef to the slow cooker.
- Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, add chopped onion and garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in tomato paste and cook for another minute.
- Deglaze the pan: Pour in the red wine (or additional broth) to deglaze the skillet, scraping up any browned bits. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add vegetables and herbs: Place carrots, potatoes, celery, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves into the slow cooker with the beef.
- Pour liquids: Pour the broth and wine mixture over the beef and vegetables.
- Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until beef is tender and vegetables are cooked through.
- Add green beans: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the green beans and continue cooking until just tender.
- Final seasoning: Remove bay leaves, taste, and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve warm: Spoon the stew into bowls and enjoy with your favorite bread or side.
Tips & Variations
“For the best flavor, always brown your beef before slow cooking — it locks in juices and adds a rich depth.”
- Vegetable swaps: Feel free to add parsnips, turnips, or mushrooms for extra earthiness.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for some heat.
- Thickening the stew: If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch mixed with cold water during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
- Slow cooker liners: Use these for easy cleanup.
- Meal prep: This recipe freezes beautifully — portion into airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 380 kcal |
Protein | 38 g |
Fat | 14 g |
Carbohydrates | 22 g |
Fiber | 5 g |
Sodium | 480 mg |
Sugars | 6 g |
Serving Suggestions
This hearty beef and vegetable slow cooker stew pairs wonderfully with rustic bread like a crusty baguette or even homemade rolls. For a lighter option, serve it over creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles to soak up the flavorful juices.
For extra freshness, garnish with chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon to brighten each bite. You can also serve alongside a crisp green salad or steamed green beans for a balanced meal.
Conclusion
Slow cooker beef and vegetable recipes are a fantastic way to enjoy a wholesome, satisfying meal with minimal effort. The magic of slow cooking transforms simple ingredients into a tender, flavorful dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Whether you’re new to slow cooking or a seasoned pro, these recipes provide a reliable and delicious option for weeknight dinners or meal prepping.
With endless customization possibilities, you can tailor the vegetables and seasonings to your preference, making every meal an exciting experience. Don’t forget to check out other recipes like Kosher Short Ribs Recipe, Kare Kare Recipe Slow Cooker, and Leftover Beef Rib Recipes for more slow-cooked beef inspiration.
Happy slow cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: Beef and Veg Slow Cooker Stew
Description: A hearty slow cooker stew packed with tender beef and mixed vegetables. Perfect for a comforting meal with minimal effort.
Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT8H
Total Time: PT8H20M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place beef cubes in the slow cooker.
- Add carrots, potatoes, onion, celery, and garlic.
- Pour in beef broth and diced tomatoes.
- Stir in tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours.
- Stir before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.
Nutrition: Calories: 350 kcal | Protein: 30 g | Fat: 15 g | Carbs: 20 g
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