Slow Cooker Ground Beef Stew

A Warm Hug in a Bowl

Ever walked into a cozy home and felt instantly wrapped in warmth? Imagine that sensation bottled up in a bowl filled with Slow Cooker Ground Beef Stew! This stew is an absolute game-changer for busy weeknights, effortlessly combining savory flavors with a comforting aroma that practically begs you to dive in. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, meaning less cleanup and more family time!

Why Make This Recipe

Why should you whip up this stew? Well, here are a few irresistible reasons:

1. Easy cleanup: Who wants to scrub a million pots and pans after dinner? Not me! 🤦‍♂️
2. Affordable: Ground beef and veggies are easy on the wallet.
3. Family-friendly: Everyone loves a hearty stew, and trust me, this one won’t last long!

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 cups beef broth
• 3 carrots, chopped
• 3 potatoes, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup green beans, chopped

Directions

1. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
2. Transfer the beef to a slow cooker and add beef broth, carrots, potatoes, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, pepper, and green beans.
3. Stir to combine all ingredients.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Serve hot and watch everyone dig in!

How to Make Slow Cooker Ground Beef Stew (Overview)

Making this stew is easier than you’d think! First, you just brown some ground beef (no biggie!), toss everything into your slow cooker, and let it do its magic. Pro tip: Don’t skip the browning step! It elevates the beef’s flavor to a whole new level. Sit back, relax, maybe pour a glass of wine, and let the aroma fill your space.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Ground Beef Stew

Serve your stew hot, ladled into deep bowls, and topped with crispy bread or buttery rolls to soak up every drop of that rich broth. The colors — vibrant orange carrots, earthy potatoes, and bright green beans — make it visually appealing, while the cozy warmth promises a fulfilling meal. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color! 🍞🥕

How to Store Slow Cooker Ground Beef Stew

Got leftovers? This stew keeps well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just pop it in an airtight container! Want to save some for later? Freeze it up, and it’ll be good for up to 3 months. When reheating, a quick simmer on the stove brings it back to life while keeping it super tasty.

Tips to Make Slow Cooker Ground Beef Stew

1. Add more veggies: Sneak in some peas or corn for extra nutrition.
2. Play with spices: A dash of paprika or a hint of rosemary can completely change the flavor profile.
3. Make it thicker: If you prefer a heartier stew, mash some potatoes right in before serving.

Variation

Want a twist? Swap the ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter version, or try adding lentils if you’re feeling veggie-savvy. Looking for a vegan option? Replace the beef with chickpeas and use vegetable broth — you still get that comforting stew without the meat!

FAQs

Can I make this stew ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prep it the night before, refrigerate, and cook it the next day.

Can I freeze the stew?
Yep! Just let it cool, store it in airtight containers, and you’re good to go for a cozy meal later.

What can I use instead of beef broth?
Chicken broth or vegetable broth work just fine!

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!

Slow Cooker Ground Beef Stew

A comforting and hearty stew made with ground beef and vegetables, perfect for busy weeknights and easy cleanup.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 7 hours hrs

Total Time 7 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef Browned before adding to the slow cooker.
• 4 cups beef broth For a rich base.
• 3 pieces carrots, chopped Adds sweetness and color.
• 3 pieces potatoes, diced Provides heartiness to the stew.
• 1 piece onion, chopped For flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances the aroma.
• 1 can diced tomatoes Adds acidity.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce For depth of flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme Seasoning.
• 1 teaspoon salt To taste.
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper To taste.
• 1 cup green beans, chopped For texture.

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
2. Transfer the beef to a slow cooker and add beef broth, carrots, potatoes, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, pepper, and green beans.
3. Stir to combine all ingredients.

Cooking

1. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the vegetables are tender.
2. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

For best results, brown the beef before adding it to the slow cooker for enhanced flavor. Serve with crispy bread or buttery rolls.