Print

Slow Cooker French Onion Beef Stew

slow cooker french onion beef stew - featured image
Print Recipe

A cozy, soul-soothing slow cooker French onion beef stew with caramelized onions and tender beef chunks, perfect for chilly evenings and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1 ½-inch cubes
  • 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
  • ½ cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute with extra broth)
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 3 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (for caramelizing onions)
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
  • 3 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
  • 2 stalks celery, chopped
  • 1 lb baby potatoes, halved (can substitute Yukon Gold or fingerlings)

Instructions

  1. Caramelize the onions: Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions with a pinch of salt and stir occasionally until onions are soft and deep golden brown, about 30 minutes.
  2. Brown the beef: Pat beef cubes dry. In batches, brown beef in the same skillet over medium-high heat, about 2-3 minutes per side. Set aside.
  3. Deglaze the pan: Pour in dry white wine or extra broth to deglaze the skillet, scraping up browned bits. Simmer for 1 minute, then remove from heat.
  4. Prepare the slow cooker: Transfer caramelized onions, browned beef, carrots, celery, baby potatoes, and minced garlic to the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine.
  5. Add liquids and seasonings: Pour in beef broth and deglazing liquid. Add Worcestershire sauce, thyme sprigs, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
  6. Thicken the stew: Sprinkle flour over the stew and stir thoroughly to prevent lumps.
  7. 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 flavors melded. Avoid lifting the lid frequently.
  8. Final touches: About 20 minutes before serving, check seasoning and remove thyme sprigs and bay leaves. If needed, thicken with a cornstarch slurry and cook uncovered for a few minutes.
  9. Optional: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a knob of butter just before serving for extra richness.

Notes

Caramelizing onions low and slow is key for deep flavor. Browning beef adds savory depth. Avoid rushing these steps. Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch to keep stew gluten-free. Optional splash of sherry vinegar or heavy cream can enhance flavor. Leftovers taste better the next day. Freeze up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker, French onion, beef stew, caramelized onions, comfort food, easy dinner, cozy meal

Find it online: https://atomicbite.com/slow-cooker-french-onion-beef-stew-recipe-easy-cozy-dinner-idea/