This hearty beef stew is perfect for cozy nights. It’s packed with tender beef, colorful veggies, and fluffy dumplings that soak up all the tasty flavors!
There’s nothing like the smell of stew cooking all day. I love coming home to a warm bowl of it, and the dumplings? They make it feel like a big hug in a bowl! 😍
Making this stew is a breeze—just toss everything in the slow cooker and relax. I enjoy serving it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for extra color and taste!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck: This cut is perfect for slow cooking because it becomes tender over time. If you’re looking for a leaner option, consider using sirloin or brisket, but be mindful that they may cook a bit differently.
Carrots and Potatoes: Carrots add sweetness, while potatoes provide heartiness. You can swap in parsnips for a different flavor or use sweet potatoes for a twist.
Red Wine: This adds depth of flavor to the stew. If you prefer not to use wine, simply replace it with more beef broth or use a splash of balsamic vinegar for a similar effect.
Flour for Dumplings: While all-purpose flour is common, you can use whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend if you need a healthier or gluten-free version.
How Do I Brown Beef for the Best Flavor?
Browning beef is an important step because it adds a deep flavor to your stew. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your beef cubes are patted dry. This helps them brown nicely rather than steam.
- Heat the skillet first before adding olive oil. Once hot, add the oil, then the beef in a single layer, working in batches if needed.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Give the pieces space, which allows each one to get that nice golden crust.
- Cook until well-browned on all sides before transferring to the slow cooker. This only takes about 5-7 minutes!
These tips will help your stew develop an even richer taste. Happy cooking!
Slow Cooker Beef Stew with Dumplings
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Dumplings:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious stew requires about 20 minutes of prep time and then you can let it cook in your slow cooker! Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The dumplings need about 30 minutes of cooking time added to the last part of the stew cooking. Enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
Start by patting the beef cubes dry with paper towels. This helps them to brown better. Sprinkle the beef with salt, pepper, and dredge it evenly with 3 tablespoons of flour to help create a nice crust.
2. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, and brown on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, transfer the beef to your slow cooker.
3. Prepare Vegetables:
In the slow cooker with the beef, add in the chopped onions, carrots, potatoes, and minced garlic. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
4. Add Liquids and Seasonings:
Pour in the beef broth and add red wine if you’re using it. Then, mix in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Stir everything together gently until fully combined.
5. Cook the Stew:
Cover the slow cooker and cook your stew on low setting for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
6. Prepare Dumpling Dough:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and chopped parsley. Then stir in the milk and melted butter until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps.
7. Add Dumplings:
About 30 minutes before your stew is done, take spoonfuls of the dumpling batter and drop them onto the surface of the stew in the slow cooker. Cover again and cook on high until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through, about 25-30 minutes.
8. Finish and Serve:
Once the dumplings are ready, remove the bay leaves from your stew. Ladle the stew and dumplings into bowls, and if you’d like, garnish with additional fresh parsley for a lovely touch. Serve hot and enjoy every comforting bite!
Enjoy your comforting Slow Cooker Beef Stew with fluffy dumplings!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef?
Yes! While beef chuck is ideal for slow cooking due to its marbling, you can also use brisket or round roast. Just keep in mind that the cooking times may vary slightly based on the cut.
Can I Omit the Wine?
Absolutely! If you prefer not to use wine, simply replace it with an equal amount of beef broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar for added depth of flavor.
How Do I Store Leftover Stew?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little broth if needed to maintain moisture.
Can I Make the Dumplings Ahead of Time?
While it’s best to cook the dumplings fresh, you can prepare the dry ingredients ahead of time and mix them with milk and butter just before you’re ready to serve the stew. This will ensure they are light and fluffy when cooked!
