Rich Thick Beef Stew with Ground Beef (Slow Cooker Version)

This rich and hearty beef stew is perfect for a cozy meal. Made with ground beef, carrots, potatoes, and peas, it’s a comforting dish that’s easy to prepare in a slow cooker. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 carrots, sliced
• 4 potatoes, diced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup frozen peas

Instructions

1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat and transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Transfer to the slow cooker.
3. Add Remaining Ingredients: Add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir well to combine.
4. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.
5. Thicken the Stew: About 30 minutes before serving, mix the flour with a bit of water to create a slurry. Stir this into the stew to thicken it.
6. Add Peas: Stir in the frozen peas and let them cook through for the remaining 30 minutes.
7. Serve: Remove the bay leaves before serving. Enjoy your rich, thick beef stew with some crusty bread or over a bed of rice.