Slow Cooker Italian Beef Stew is a hearty, comforting dish filled with tender chunks of beef, flavorful Italian herbs, and a rich tomato-based sauce. The slow cooking makes the meat melt in your mouth, while the veggies soak up all the delicious juices. It’s like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for any day you want something cozy and filling.
I love making this stew because it’s so hands-off—you just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do its magic while you go about your day. The aroma that fills the house as it cooks is amazing and makes me look forward to dinner all afternoon. Plus, it’s one of those meals that tastes even better the next day, so I always make a bit extra.
My favorite way to serve this stew is with a big slice of crusty bread to soak up all those tasty juices. Sometimes I add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or even a little grated Parmesan on top just to brighten it up. It’s a simple meal but feels special every time, and it’s one of those recipes that friends and family keep asking for again and again.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is perfect because it becomes tender and flavorful after slow cooking. If you can’t find chuck, brisket or bottom round work well too.
Tomatoes (diced and sauce): They add rich tomato flavor and help create the stew’s sauce. You can swap for crushed tomatoes if you like a smoother texture.
Herbs (oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary): These Italian dried herbs build great flavor. Fresh herbs are lovely too—add them near the end to keep their brightness.
Vegetables: Carrots and potatoes bring body and sweetness. Feel free to add celery or parsnips for extra variety.
Beef broth: This helps deepen the flavor. Use low sodium if you want more control over saltiness, or vegetable broth for a lighter option.
How Do You Brown Beef Properly for the Best Stew?
Browning beef before slow cooking adds rich flavor and texture. Here’s how I do it:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet until shimmering but not smoking.
- Season beef cubes with salt and pepper.
- Work in batches—don’t crowd the pan or the beef will steam, not brown.
- Cook on all sides until a deep brown crust forms (about 2-3 minutes per side).
- Transfer browned beef to the slow cooker immediately to keep the pan hot for next batches.
- The browned bits left in the pan add great flavor if you sauté onions and garlic in the same pan afterward.
This simple step lifts the stew’s flavor from good to great. It’s worth the few extra minutes!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Slow cooker – This is key for tender, flavorful beef with minimal effort.
- Large skillet – Perfect for browning the beef and sautéing onions to boost flavor.
- Sharp knife – Helps you cut beef and vegetables evenly for even cooking.
- Cutting board – Protects your counters and gives you a clean workspace.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – Great for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap beef for pork shoulder – It also becomes tender and adds a milder flavor.
- Add Italian sausage – Boosts richness and a bit of spice if you like bold taste.
- Stir in a cup of sliced mushrooms – Adds earthiness and extra texture.
- Mix in chopped bell peppers – These add sweetness and color, especially towards the end.
Slow Cooker Italian Beef Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Beef Stew:
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1 ½-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes for preparation, mostly for chopping and browning the beef. Then, you’ll cook the stew in the slow cooker for 7-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high until the beef is tender and the vegetables cook through. It’s mostly hands-off time, so you can relax while your stew simmers to perfection.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. Brown the beef in batches, making sure not to crowd the pan, so each piece gets a nice sear on all sides. Transfer browned beef pieces to your slow cooker.
2. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
Using the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until they are soft and fragrant. Add these directly to the slow cooker with the beef.
3. Add Vegetables and Liquids:
Place the carrots, potatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and beef broth into the slow cooker over the beef and onions.
4. Add Seasonings and Mix:
Sprinkle in the dried oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, red pepper flakes if using, and extra salt and pepper to taste. Give everything a gentle stir to combine the flavors without breaking the meat or vegetables.
5. Cook Low and Slow:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 7 to 8 hours, or on high for 4 to 5 hours. The beef should be tender and the vegetables soft when done.
6. Final Touches and Serving:
Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot, sprinkled with fresh chopped parsley. For a tasty meal, enjoy alongside creamy polenta or crusty bread to soak up all the delicious juices.
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Stew?
It’s best to use thawed beef for even cooking. If using frozen, thaw it completely in the fridge overnight before browning to ensure it cooks thoroughly and safely.
Can I Prepare This Stew Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can brown the beef and chop the veggies the day before, then store everything covered in the fridge. When ready, just add all ingredients to the slow cooker and start cooking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
What Can I Serve with Italian Beef Stew?
We recommend creamy polenta, crusty bread, or even mashed potatoes to soak up the rich stew sauce and make a complete, hearty meal.
