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BBQ Slow Cooker Beef Stew

BBQ Slow Cooker Beef Stew
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BBQ Slow Cooker Beef Stew is a rich, tender, and hearty meal that combines smoky BBQ seasoning with slow-cooked beef and vibrant vegetables. Perfect for cozy dinners or make-ahead meals, this stew delivers deep flavors and comforting textures with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale

Beef

  • 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 2-inch chunks
  • 2 tbsp BBQ seasoning (smoked paprika, garlic powder, brown sugar blend)

Vegetables

  • 3 large carrots, chopped
  • 4 medium potatoes, chopped
  • 1 large onion, chopped

Liquids & Sauces

  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Herbs & Seasonings

  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Beef: Cut the beef chuck roast into uniform 2-inch chunks for even cooking. Generously rub BBQ seasoning onto each piece to coat thoroughly for maximum flavor absorption.
  2. Sear the Meat: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and brown the beef chunks in batches. Browning locks in the juices and develops a rich caramelized crust, enhancing the stew’s depth of flavor.
  3. Assemble the Slow Cooker: Place the seared beef in the slow cooker. Add chopped carrots, potatoes, and onions on top. Mix beef broth with tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce, then pour over the ingredients. Add fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs for aromatic infusion.
  4. Cook Low and Slow: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 7 to 8 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are soft yet retain some texture. This slow cooking melds the BBQ spices and flavors perfectly.
  5. Final Touches: Near the end of cooking, taste the stew and adjust seasoning if necessary. Remove the herb sprigs. If a thicker consistency is desired, stir in a slurry made from cornstarch and water, then cook for an additional 15 minutes.

Notes

  • Brown Your Meat First: Browning beef before slow cooking prevents a flat flavor and adds savory depth.
  • Fresh Herbs are Key: Adding fresh thyme or rosemary brightens and balances smoky flavors.
  • Maintain Broth Levels: Ensure there’s enough liquid to keep the stew hearty but not watery.
  • Adjust Spice Level: Add jalapeños or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick if desired.
  • Make Ahead Friendly: Assemble the night before and refrigerate to save time on cooking day.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ beef stew, slow cooker stew, beef chuck roast, hearty beef stew, comfort food, slow cooked beef recipe

Find it online: https://marycorner.com/bbq-slow-cooker-beef-stew/