Today, I have a special treat in store for you—a recipe that embodies the warmth and comfort of the colder months. As the seasons change and the air grows crisper, there’s nothing quite like a hearty, warming meal to cozy up with. For me, this time of year always brings back fond memories of my childhood in St. Louis, where the cold winters were made bearable by my mom’s incredible cooking. She would spend hours in the kitchen, simmering a pot of her famous beef stew on the stovetop, filling our home with the most inviting aromas.
Now, I’m excited to share with you a modern twist on that beloved family recipe, adapted for the convenience of a slow cooker. This hearty beef stew is a perfect blend of tradition and ease, allowing you to enjoy the same rich flavors with minimal effort. Simply place all the ingredients in your slow cooker, give them a quick stir, and let the slow cooker work its magic throughout the day. The result is a stew that’s not only delicious but also incredibly comforting.
I can assure you that this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. The best part? It makes a large batch, perfect for leftovers that can be frozen or refrigerated for another day. Imagine having a warm, satisfying meal ready to go whenever you need it, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend afternoon. This stew is more than just a meal; it’s a way to bring warmth and joy into your home, just like my mom did for me all those years ago. So, grab your slow cooker and let’s get started on this culinary journey that will leave you and your family feeling cozy and content.
*This recipe was originally posted on November 14, 2023

Hearty Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef stew meat cut into 1 inch pieces
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 tbsp steak seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon ground red pepper optional
- 1 bay leaf
- 4 unpeeled potatoes diced
- 2 large carrots peeled and sliced (may substitute for small bag of baby carrots)
- 2 large stalks celery sliced
- 1 onions chopped
- 2 cups peas frozen
- 1-28 oz can crushed tomatoes
Instructions
- Place meat in crock pot.
- Add potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, frozen peas, and garlic
- Mix salt, pepper, steak seasoning, and red pepper and pour over meat and vegetables
- Stir to coat meat and vegetables
- Add remaining ingredients and stir to mix well
- Cover and cook on low for 10-12 hours or high for 4-6 hours
- Stir stew thoroughly before serving
- Serve hot with biscuits or corn bread (optional)