If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting dinner that practically cooks itself, then this Easy Crockpot Beef and Potatoes Recipe is the answer. I remember the first time I made this dish – it was one of those days when I just didn’t have the energy to cook a complicated meal. With just a few simple ingredients, I threw everything into the crockpot and let it work its magic. The result? A rich, tender beef stew with soft potatoes that practically melt in your mouth. This recipe quickly became one of my go-to meals, especially for busy weeknights when I need a filling meal with minimal effort.
Table of Contents
Preparing the Ingredients for Crockpot Beef and Potatoes
Selecting the Perfect Cut of Beef
When it comes to making this recipe, the beef cut is crucial. I recommend using beef stew meat or chuck roast. These cuts become incredibly tender when cooked slowly in the crockpot, allowing the flavors to infuse into every bite. Trim off any excess fat before cooking, but don’t worry too much about perfection—this recipe is forgiving.
For a variation, you can also try Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup for another comforting, slow-cooked dish.
Preparing the Vegetables
You’ll want to use hearty vegetables for this recipe, and potatoes are a must. Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best, as they hold their shape while absorbing the delicious juices from the beef. Along with potatoes, add onions, carrots, and celery for added flavor.
Cooking the Beef and Potatoes in the Crockpot
Layering the Ingredients
Start by adding the beef to the bottom of the crockpot. Next, layer the vegetables on top. Pour in a rich beef broth, along with a mix of herbs like thyme, rosemary, and garlic for added depth. The crockpot will do its magic over several hours, cooking everything to tender perfection.
Adjusting for Flavor and Texture
After about 4 hours, check the consistency of your dish. If you prefer a thicker broth, you can stir in a little cornstarch mixed with water and let it cook for an additional 15 minutes. You want the broth to be flavorful and the potatoes to be soft but not falling apart.
If you want a healthy side dish to accompany this meal, consider serving it with Zucchini Oatmeal Pancakes to balance the rich flavors of the beef and potatoes.
Adding the Final Touches
Seasoning for Perfection
Before serving, taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Add fresh herbs like parsley for a burst of color and freshness. If you want a hint of heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper can elevate the dish. For extra richness, you can also stir in a small amount of butter right before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish as-is for a complete meal, or pair it with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth. The beef and potatoes are the stars of the show, but a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can help cut through the richness and add a fresh contrast.
For a delicious dessert after this hearty meal, try pairing it with Southern Peach Pie Bars with Cinnamon Glaze Recipe for a sweet finish.
Print
Easy Crockpot Beef and Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This Easy Crockpot Beef and Potatoes is the perfect hearty meal for busy nights. Tender beef and soft potatoes are cooked in a flavorful broth that’s sure to satisfy the whole family.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef stew meat (or chuck roast)
- 4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp rosemary
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Add the beef stew meat to the crockpot and layer the vegetables on top.
- Pour in the beef broth, followed by thyme, rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours, until beef is tender and potatoes are soft.
- If you prefer a thicker broth, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water and stir it in before cooking for an additional 15 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread.
Notes
For a richer broth, stir in a bit of butter right before serving. You can also freeze this dish for later use.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 45g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: crockpot beef and potatoes, slow-cooked beef stew, easy crockpot recipe
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which is rare with this dish!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, making it an even better meal for lunch the next day.
Reheating Tips
To reheat, simply warm the leftovers in a saucepan over low heat, adding a little broth or water to loosen the mixture if needed. You can also reheat in the microwave. This dish freezes well too, so consider making a double batch and storing half in the freezer for a future meal.
FAQ Section
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other cuts like sirloin or brisket, but the cooking time may vary slightly. Stew meat or chuck roast is ideal because it becomes very tender in the crockpot.
Can I add other vegetables to the recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add mushrooms, parsnips, or even sweet potatoes to the mix. Just keep in mind that some vegetables cook faster than others, so you may need to adjust the cooking time.
Can I make this recipe without potatoes?
Yes, you can leave out the potatoes and make it a beef and vegetable stew. If you prefer a low-carb version, you can substitute cauliflower or rutabaga for potatoes.
Conclusion
This Easy Crockpot Beef and Potatoes Recipe is the ultimate comfort food. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a flavorful, satisfying meal without the hassle of constant attention. With tender beef, hearty potatoes, and a savory broth, this dish is sure to be a family favorite. Pair it with a side like Zucchini Oatmeal Pancakes or a delicious dessert like Southern Peach Pie Bars with Cinnamon Glaze Recipe to round out your meal.