Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds chuck roast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
- 2 ½ cups beef stock
- 1 pound Yukon gold potatoes, diced
- 8 ounces baby bella mushrooms, halved
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 large carrots, diced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 bay leaves
- 2–3 tablespoons cornstarch (plus 2–3 tablespoons cold water)
Instructions
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Sear the Beef (Optional): Season beef with salt and pepper. In a large pan, heat butter over medium-high heat. Add beef in batches, searing briefly on all sides. Transfer to a plate. This step enhances flavor but can be skipped for speed.
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Combine Ingredients: Place beef, beef stock, potatoes, mushrooms, onion, celery, carrots, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and bay leaves in your slow cooker or Instant Pot. Stir well to combine.
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Cook the Stew:
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Slow Cooker: Cover and cook on high for 4 hours or on low for 7–8 hours.
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Instant Pot: Select “Sauté” to sear, then add all ingredients. Cook on high pressure for 40 minutes, followed by a quick release.
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Thicken the Broth (Optional): Mix cornstarch with cold water in a small bowl. Stir into the simmering stew until thickened to your liking.
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Final Seasoning: Remove bay leaves. Taste the Beef Stew and season with more salt or pepper if needed.
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Serve Warm: Ladle into bowls, garnish with parsley if desired, and enjoy with bread or sides.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2–3 hours (depending on method)