There’s something incredibly soul-soothing about a bowl of Slow-Cooker Beef Stew with Red Wine. Picture this: the tender chunks of beef, bathed in a rich, aromatic broth, whispering promises of warmth and comfort. rich steak with garlic sauce Each bite is like a hug from your grandma, minus the awkward questions about your love life. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’ve got it all figured out, even if you spent half the day wearing mismatched socks.
I remember the first time I made this stew. I invited friends over, hoping to impress them with my culinary skills. Spoiler alert: I lived up to the hype! As the stew simmered away in my trusty slow cooker, the house filled with an irresistible aroma that lured everyone into the kitchen. cozy chicken chowder recipe By the time we sat down to eat, there was silence—except for happy sighs and clinking spoons. This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or when you’re trying to show off your “domestic goddess” side at potlucks. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Slow-Cooker Beef Stew with Red Wine is incredibly easy to prepare and lets your slow cooker do all the hard work
- The deep flavors of red wine elevate this stew to a new level of deliciousness
- It’s visually appealing with vibrant veggies peeking through a rich broth that invites you to dig in
- Perfect for family dinners or meal prep; it tastes even better as leftovers!
I still chuckle when I think about how my friend Phil tried to take credit for my cooking skills after devouring two bowls in record time.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Beef Chuck Roast: Aim for well-marbled cuts; they break down beautifully during slow cooking.
- Red Wine: Choose a dry red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon for depth and richness in flavor.
- Carrots: Fresh carrots add natural sweetness and color; cut them into hearty chunks.
- Potatoes: Use waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold for creaminess that holds up during cooking.
- Onions: Sweet onions work well here; they caramelize beautifully and add sweetness.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide aromatic depth and flavor; always use fresh!
- Beef Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth so you can control the seasoning.
- Thyme and Bay Leaves: These herbs enhance flavor without overpowering; use fresh if possible.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Sear the Beef: Start by heating a bit of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef chuck roast on all sides until browned—about 4 minutes per side—to lock in those glorious juices.
Add Aromatics: Toss in chopped onions and minced garlic into the skillet after removing the beef. Sauté until fragrant and translucent—about 3-4 minutes—this step builds your stew’s base flavor.
Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Transfer the seared beef, sautéed onions, garlic, carrots, potatoes, thyme, bay leaves, and red wine into your slow cooker. Pour in beef broth until everything is submerged but not drowning.
Season Generously: Add salt and pepper to taste; don’t be shy! A generous dash will enhance every layer of flavor as it cooks. slow-cooked flavor in fajitas.
Set It and Forget It!: Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. Let those flavors meld together while you enjoy a well-deserved break.
Savor Your Creation!: When done cooking, taste before serving—adjust seasoning if needed—then ladle that comforting goodness into bowls and watch everyone’s faces light up!
Now sit back, relax, and let that Slow-Cooker Beef Stew with Red Wine work its magic on your hungry crew! For more inspiration, check out this beef macaroni soup recipe.
You Must Know
- Slow-Cooker Beef Stew with Red Wine is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy evenings
- The mouthwatering aroma fills your home and makes everyone feel at ease
- This dish is not only delicious but also a great way to use up leftover veggies
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To create perfect Slow-Cooker Beef Stew with Red Wine, start by searing the beef for rich flavor, then add vegetables and liquid before setting your slow cooker. For more inspiration, check out this vegetable soup recipe recipe.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out vegetables like carrots or potatoes based on what you have. delightful potato leek soup You can even experiment with different herbs for a unique twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. When reheating, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave until steaming hot.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best flavor, use bone-in beef chuck roast; it adds richness
- Remember to season well at each step for depth
- Letting the stew sit overnight enhances its flavors significantly
The first time I made this stew, my friends couldn’t stop raving about it! They even asked for the recipe, which made me feel like a culinary superstar.
FAQ
What type of wine should I use for Slow-Cooker Beef Stew with Red Wine?
Use a dry red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot for the best flavor.
Can I make this stew without red wine?
Yes, substitute red wine with beef broth or grape juice for a non-alcoholic version.
How long should I cook Slow-Cooker Beef Stew with Red Wine?
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until beef is tender and flavorful.
Slow-Cooker Beef Stew with Red Wine
- Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Slow-Cooker Beef Stew with Red Wine is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender beef chunks with a rich, aromatic broth. Enhanced by the depth of red wine and vibrant vegetables, this dish offers warmth and satisfaction in every bite. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, it’s easy to prepare and delivers mouthwatering flavors that improve with leftovers. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, this stew will impress your guests and warm your heart.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup dry red wine (e.g., Cabernet Sauvignon)
- 4 large carrots, chopped
- 4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, diced
- 2 medium sweet onions, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 2 tsp fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Sear the beef: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the beef on all sides (about 4 minutes per side) to lock in juices.
- Add aromatics: Sauté onions and garlic in the same skillet until fragrant (3-4 minutes).
- Combine ingredients: Transfer seared beef, sautéed onions and garlic, carrots, potatoes, thyme, bay leaves, and red wine to the slow cooker. Pour in beef broth until submerged.
- Season: Add salt and pepper generously.
- Cook: Cover and set slow cooker on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
- Serve: Taste before serving; adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle into bowls and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: For maximum flavor, use bone-in beef chuck roast. Feel free to swap out vegetables based on availability. Letting the stew sit overnight enhances its flavors significantly.