👩🍳 Directions
Layer the ingredients: Place the beef in the bottom of your slow cooker. Top with carrots, potatoes, and onion.
Add the broth: Pour in the beef broth, ensuring the ingredients are mostly covered. Season with salt and pepper.
Set and forget: Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, until the meat is tender and the vegetables are soft.
Final touch: Stir well before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
🌟 Tips & Variations
Sear for flavor: For a richer stew, sear the beef in a skillet with a bit of oil before adding it to the slow cooker. This adds depth and a caramelized layer of flavor.
Thicken it up: Want a thicker stew? Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Add more veggies: Peas, green beans, mushrooms, or even a handful of spinach can be stirred in during the last hour for added nutrition.
Boost the flavor: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce, a bay leaf, a pinch of dried thyme, or red pepper flakes for a little kick.
Make it ahead: This stew stores beautifully. Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days or freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
🥖 Serving Suggestions
Serve your Winter Wonderland Stew with:
Crusty French bread or buttery biscuits for dunking
A side of mashed potatoes for the ultimate cozy combo
A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness
A glass of red wine or hot cider for that extra winter charm
❄️ Final Thoughts
This simple stew proves that you don’t need a long ingredient list to create something soul-warming and satisfying. Whether you're feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, Winter Wonderland Stew will quickly become a staple in your winter recipe lineup. Throw everything in the slow cooker, let the aromas fill your home, and enjoy a hot bowl of comfort by dinnertime.
