Indulge your taste buds in the heartwarming flavors of Italy with our Slow Cooker Italian Style Stew! This comforting dish is perfect for those busy days when you crave a hearty meal without the fuss. With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it, letting your slow cooker work its magic for a deliciously rich and tender stew that simmers for hours. Imagine coming home to a kitchen filled with the mouthwatering aroma of seasoned beef, fresh vegetables, and savory broth—it's a culinary hug in a bowl! Ready to impress your family and friends? Dive into this recipe that yields 6 generous servings of pure Italian bliss!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 8 hrs
Total Time: 8 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef stew meat
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups carrots, sliced
- 2 cups potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by cutting beef stew meat into bite-sized chunks if not already done. Chop onions, mince garlic, slice carrots, and dice potatoes to ensure uniform cooking.
- Season beef stew meat generously with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Lightly coat the meat with flour (optional) to help thicken the stew and create a nice sear.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and brown the seasoned beef chunks on all sides. This step adds depth of flavor by caramelizing the meat's exterior. Transfer browned meat to the slow cooker.
- In the same skillet, sauté chopped onions and minced garlic for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and slightly translucent. Add to slow cooker.
- Add sliced carrots, diced potatoes, diced tomatoes, remaining Italian seasoning, and beef broth to the slow cooker. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Cover slow cooker and set to low heat. Cook for 7-8 hours, allowing the meat to become tender and flavors to meld together.
- About 30 minutes before serving, taste and adjust seasonings if needed. The stew should have a rich, hearty consistency.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese. Pair with crusty Italian bread for a complete meal.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time on busy mornings, chop your vegetables and meat the night before. Store them in the fridge for a quick assembly in the morning.
- Browning is Key: Don’t skip the browning step! Searing the beef adds a depth of flavor that enhances the overall taste of your stew.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables—zucchini, bell peppers, or peas can add a delightful twist to this classic recipe.
- Thickening the Stew: If you prefer a thicker stew, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Season to Taste: Always taste your stew before serving. Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or a dash of red pepper flakes for a little kick!
- Perfect Pairing: Serve your stew with crusty Italian bread or over a bed of creamy polenta for a complete and satisfying meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 100mg
