There’s nothing quite like a hearty, simmering pot of beef stew to warm you from the inside out. This ultimate recipe for Slow Cooker Beef Stew and Dumplings delivers just that: tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef, an abundance of wholesome vegetables, and wonderfully fluffy homemade dumplings, all bathed in a rich, deeply flavored broth. It’s the quintessential comfort food, made incredibly easy with the magic of your slow cooker.
Forget long hours over the stove; your Crock Pot does all the heavy lifting, allowing you to come home to a delicious, aromatic meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings or a cozy weekend gathering. This classic beef stew, elevated with simple, savory dumplings, is sure to become a cherished favorite in your family’s meal rotation.
Slow cooking truly transforms inexpensive cuts of beef into incredibly tender, flavorful bites, making this recipe not only delicious but also budget-friendly. Paired with our simple, family-approved homemade dumplings, it’s a meal that promises satisfaction with every spoonful.
Why You’ll Adore This Slow Cooker Beef Stew
This isn’t just another stew recipe; it’s a culinary experience designed for ease, flavor, and ultimate comfort. Here’s why this Slow Cooker Beef Stew and Dumplings stands out:
- Effortless Preparation: Beyond some initial chopping, this recipe is remarkably hands-off. Simply combine the ingredients, set your slow cooker, and let it work its slow-cooking magic. Even the fluffy dumplings are incredibly straightforward to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum reward.
- Wholesome, Real Ingredients: While shortcuts have their place, this robust stew relies on simple, whole food ingredients. You won’t find any canned cream soups or pre-packaged biscuit dough (unless you choose that convenient shortcut!). We focus on fresh vegetables, quality beef, and pantry staples for a truly authentic and satisfying taste.
- Easily Customizable: Dietary needs? No problem! This versatile recipe can be adapted to be gluten-free or dairy-free with simple substitutions. We’ll provide helpful tips to ensure everyone at your table can enjoy this comforting meal.
- The Epitome of Comfort Food: Imagine coming home on a cold day to the comforting aroma of beef stew gently simmering. This dish is designed to warm you up and bring a sense of cozy contentment. It’s the perfect antidote to a chilly fall or winter evening, promising a classic comfort food experience without the fuss.
- Deep, Developed Flavors: The long, slow cooking process allows the flavors of the beef, vegetables, and aromatic broth to meld together beautifully, creating a depth of taste that simply cannot be rushed. Each spoonful is a testament to the power of low and slow cooking.
Looking for a quicker alternative? Be sure to check out my super easy recipe for Instant Pot Beef Stew – perfect for busy weeknights when time is of the essence!
Essential Ingredients for a Hearty Beef Stew
Crafting the perfect beef stew begins with selecting the right components. Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients that give this slow cooker beef stew its incredible flavor and texture:
Key Stew Ingredients
- Beef Stew Meat: For convenience, pre-cut stew meat is excellent. However, you can also use cuts like brisket, chuck roast, or even short ribs. Just ensure they are sliced into approximately 1 ½-inch cubes. These cuts are ideal for slow cooking as they become incredibly tender and flavorful over time.
- Hearty Vegetables: A classic beef stew demands fresh, robust vegetables. You’ll need crisp celery, sweet carrots, and pungent onion, all chopped to release their aromatic goodness into the broth. For added heartiness and a more complete meal, consider adding potatoes (such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes, cut into large chunks) about 2-3 hours before the stew finishes cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.
- Rich Beef Broth: This forms the flavorful foundation of our stew. High-quality beef broth perfectly complements the stewing beef. If unavailable, chicken or vegetable broth, or even beef bouillon dissolved in water, can be substituted.
- Aromatics and Seasonings: Fresh minced garlic, dried thyme, a touch of tomato paste for umami depth, and Worcestershire sauce for a savory kick are crucial for building a complex flavor profile. Salt and freshly ground black pepper are essential for seasoning to taste.
- All-Purpose Flour: A small amount of flour is used to coat the beef, which helps in thickening the stew slightly and also contributes to a richer texture.
Remember to consult the comprehensive recipe card below for a full list of ingredients and precise quantities needed for this comforting slow cooker meal.
For the Fluffy Dumplings
Our easy beef stew recipe is crowned with delightful homemade drop dumplings. These are surprisingly simple to prepare, requiring just a few basic ingredients:
- All-Purpose Flour: The base for light, fluffy dumplings.
- Baking Powder: This leavening agent is key to achieving that desirable fluffy texture.
- Melted Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the dumpling dough.
- Milk: Binds the dough and contributes to its tender crumb.
- Italian Seasoning: A wonderful addition that infuses the dumplings with complementary herb flavors.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning the dumplings themselves.
If you’re pressed for time or prefer a convenient shortcut, refrigerated canned biscuits can be used in place of homemade dumplings. Simply follow the substitution instructions provided in the recipe notes.
How to Make the Best Slow Cooker Beef Stew with Dumplings
This Crock Pot Beef Stew and Dumplings recipe is not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly simple to execute, making it ideal for a busy day. Let’s walk through the steps to create this ultimate comfort classic.
Step One: Prepare the Beef. In a large bowl, add the cubed beef and ¼ cup of all-purpose flour. Toss thoroughly until all pieces of beef are evenly coated. This flour coating not only helps to thicken the stew but also creates a slight crust that holds in moisture and flavor.
Optional Tip for Enhanced Flavor: For an even deeper flavor profile, brown the floured beef cubes in a large skillet with 1 tablespoon of oil or butter over medium-high heat before adding them to the slow cooker. This step creates a rich fond at the bottom of the pan, which contributes significantly to the stew’s overall taste.
Step Two: Layer the Ingredients. Transfer the floured beef cubes, along with the chopped celery, sliced carrots, and diced onion, into the slow cooker insert. Distribute them evenly to ensure all ingredients cook thoroughly and infuse the stew with their distinct flavors.
Step Three: Prepare the Liquid Base. In a separate medium bowl, combine the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until they are thoroughly combined, creating a rich and aromatic liquid base for your stew.
Step Four: Combine and Cook. Carefully pour the prepared broth mixture over the beef and vegetables in the slow cooker. Ensure the liquid covers most of the solid ingredients, allowing them to stew perfectly. Give everything a gentle stir to mix.
The Slow Cooking Process: Eight Hours of Flavor
Step Five: Set and Forget. Secure the lid on your slow cooker. Cook on the “low” heat setting for a total of 8 hours. This extended, gentle cooking time is crucial for achieving fork-tender beef and allowing the flavors to fully develop. You will add the dumplings during the final hour of cooking.
Step Six (Optional): Thicken the Stew. If you prefer a thicker stew, prepare a cornstarch slurry approximately 30-40 minutes before the end of the 7-hour mark (just before adding the dumplings). See the detailed instructions below for creating a perfect slurry.
How to Make a Cornstarch Slurry for a Thicker Stew
To thicken your stew, whisk together 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl until smooth. Ensure there are no lumps. Pour this slurry into the hot beef stew, stirring continuously for a few minutes until the stew visibly thickens. This should be done just before you add the dumplings.
Crafting the Fluffy Homemade Dumplings
Step Seven: Mix the Dumpling Dough. Approximately 7 hours into the stew’s cooking time, begin preparing your dumplings. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, Italian seasoning, and salt. Once the dry ingredients are well combined, gradually add the melted butter and milk, stirring until a soft, shaggy dough forms. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine and will lead to tender dumplings.
The Dumpling Finale: Adding to the Stew
Step Eight: Drop the Dough. Once the stew has cooked for about 7 hours (and you’ve optionally thickened it), carefully open the slow cooker. Using a large spoon or a small cookie scoop, drop heaping spoonfuls of the dumpling dough directly onto the surface of the hot stew. Try to space them out a bit, as they will expand as they cook.
Step Nine: Finish Cooking. Repeat the process until all of the dumpling dough has been added to the stew. Replace the lid on the slow cooker and continue to cook for another 50-60 minutes on the “low” setting, or until the dumplings are completely cooked through and fluffy. They should be light and tender, not dense or gooey in the center.
Shortcut: Using Refrigerated Biscuits for Dumplings
If you’re seeking a quick and easy alternative to homemade dumplings, refrigerated biscuit dough works wonderfully. It’s a fantastic shortcut that still delivers satisfying results.
- About 50-60 minutes before the stew is finished cooking (after 7 hours, and after thickening if desired), open a package of refrigerated biscuits.
- Slice each biscuit into quarters. This size ensures they cook through evenly and are a good bite-size.
- Drop the pieces of biscuit dough directly into the hot stew, scattering them across the surface.
- Replace the lid on the slow cooker and continue cooking for 50-60 minutes, or until the biscuit dumplings are puffed up and cooked through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve your simplified, yet still delicious, beef stew and dumplings.
Step Ten: Garnish and Serve. Once the dumplings are cooked through and have reached a fluffy consistency, your Slow Cooker Beef Stew and Dumplings is ready to be enjoyed! Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and herbaceous flavor. Ladle the hot stew into individual bowls and serve immediately. Enjoy this comforting classic!
Dutch Oven Method: A Stovetop/Oven Alternative
No slow cooker? No problem! This delicious beef stew and dumplings can be perfectly prepared in a Dutch oven. The long, gentle cooking process can be replicated using your oven, resulting in similarly tender beef and a rich, deeply flavored broth.
To use the Dutch oven method, follow the initial steps of preparing the beef and assembling the stew as described above. If you chose to brown the beef, you can do this directly in your Dutch oven on the stovetop, then add the remaining ingredients. Once all ingredients are in the Dutch oven, cover it tightly with its lid.
Cook it on low heat in your oven (approximately 250ºF or 121ºC) for 4-6 hours. The exact cooking time will depend on your oven and the tenderness of your beef. Check the beef for tenderness around the 4-hour mark and continue cooking until it easily shreds with a fork. Add the dumplings during the last 45 minutes of cooking, ensuring they have ample time to puff up and cook through. This method offers a wonderful alternative for achieving the same beloved comfort food experience.
Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips
Proper storage ensures you can enjoy the deliciousness of this beef stew for days to come. Here are the best practices for handling leftovers:
Leftovers can be transferred to an airtight container and kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat, you can use the stovetop (gently warming over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of broth if needed), the microwave, or even return it to the slow cooker on a low setting for an hour or two. Always stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
Top Tip: Always allow your beef stew and dumplings to cool completely to room temperature before storing them in the refrigerator or freezer. This helps prevent bacterial growth and maintains food quality.
How to Freeze Beef and Dumpling Stew
While beef stew freezes beautifully, the dumplings tend to become soggy and lose their fluffy texture upon thawing and reheating. For the best results when freezing:
Prepare and cook the beef stew as directed, but do not add the dumplings. Once the stew has cooled completely, transfer it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the stew overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stovetop or in the slow cooker. While it’s reheating, prepare a fresh batch of dumplings to drop in for the last hour of cooking. This ensures you get that perfect fluffy texture every time.
Smart Substitutions to Tailor Your Stew
This slow cooker beef stew recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to easily make substitutions based on dietary needs or pantry availability:
- Beef Cuts: Instead of pre-cut stew meat, feel free to use chunks of brisket, a boneless chuck roast, or even short ribs. These cuts are excellent for slow cooking and will yield equally tender results.
- Flour Alternatives: If you or your guests are gluten-sensitive, a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend can be used for both coating the beef and making the dumplings. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for best results.
- Broth Options: While beef broth is traditional, chicken or vegetable broth can be used as a direct substitute. The flavor profile will be slightly different but still delicious.
- Dairy-Free Butter: For dairy-free dumplings, simply substitute plant-based butter (such as a good quality vegan butter stick) for regular unsalted butter.
- Milk Variations: In the dumpling recipe, you can experiment with heavy whipping cream for richer dumplings, or buttermilk for a slightly tangy flavor and incredibly tender texture. Unsweetened plain plant-based milk can also work for a dairy-free option.
- Quick Dumpling Swap: As mentioned, store-bought refrigerated biscuit dough is a fantastic shortcut if you’re out of ingredients for homemade dumplings or short on time.
Exciting Flavor Variations to Elevate Your Stew
Elevate your beef stew with these simple yet impactful flavor additions:
- Bay Leaves: A classic addition to any beef stew, bay leaves impart a subtle, almost minty, herbal note that enhances the savory depth. Add 1-2 dried bay leaves to the slow cooker along with the broth mixture, and remember to remove them before serving.
- Red Wine: For a more sophisticated flavor, consider adding about ½ cup of dry red wine (like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot) along with the beef broth. Allow it to simmer and reduce for about 10-15 minutes on the stovetop with the tomato paste and Worcestershire before adding to the slow cooker, if you prefer to cook out some of the alcohol. This adds incredible depth and richness.
- Soy Sauce or Tamari: A splash of soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option) can add a wonderful umami depth to the stew, complementing the savory beef. Start with 1-2 tablespoons and adjust to your taste.
- Balsamic Vinegar: A tablespoon or two of good quality balsamic vinegar, added towards the end of the cooking process, introduces a bright, deeply flavored acidity that balances the richness of the stew beautifully.
- Fresh Herbs: Beyond parsley, consider adding sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme along with the dried herbs at the beginning of cooking, then removing them before serving. Their fresh notes are truly delightful.
Frequently Asked Questions About Beef Stew and Dumplings
Here are answers to some common questions you might have when making this comforting beef stew with dumplings:
Q: Can I prepare this stew in advance?
A: Absolutely! Beef stew is one of those dishes that often tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld and deepen. You can prepare the stew (without the dumplings) a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the slow cooker, then prepare and add fresh dumplings during the last hour of cooking before serving. This makes it an excellent option for meal prepping or entertaining.
Q: Can I use a store-bought dumpling mix or canned biscuits instead of making my own?
A: Yes, certainly! If you’re short on time or prefer a quicker option, a good quality store-bought dumpling mix can be used. Simply follow the package instructions for preparation and add them to the stew as you would with homemade dumplings. Refrigerated biscuit dough, cut into quarters, is also a popular and convenient alternative that works wonderfully.
Q: What are the signs that the dumplings are fully cooked?
A: Cooked dumplings will be visibly puffed up, light, and fluffy in texture. When cut open, they should not appear dense or doughy in the center. They will also have a slightly golden color on the outside, particularly where they are exposed to the steam and broth. This typically takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour in a slow cooker, depending on their size.
Q: Can I cook this stew on high in the slow cooker?
A: While you can cook the stew on high for a shorter duration (typically 4-5 hours), the “low and slow” method for 8 hours is highly recommended. Cooking on low heat allows the tough connective tissues in the beef to break down gradually, resulting in an exceptionally tender and succulent texture that is often harder to achieve on a high setting. The flavors also have more time to develop depth on the low setting.
Q: What are some good side dishes to serve with beef stew and dumplings?
A: This stew is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for soaking up the delicious broth, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness, or mashed potatoes (if you haven’t added them to the stew) for extra heartiness. A glass of dry red wine also complements the rich flavors beautifully.
Q: Can I add potatoes directly to the slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can add potatoes directly to the slow cooker! For best results and to prevent them from becoming too mushy, add larger chunks of sturdy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes during the last 2-3 hours of the cooking cycle. If you add them at the very beginning, they might break down too much over the long cooking time.
More Comfort Food Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed this hearty Slow Cooker Beef Stew and Dumplings, you’re sure to love these other comforting recipes:
- Instant Pot Beef Stew
- Crock Pot Pepper Steak
- Easy Funeral Potatoes Recipe
- Swiss Chicken Casserole
If you tried this recipe for Slow Cooker Beef Stew and Dumplings, please consider leaving a 5-star review in the comments below! Your feedback is greatly appreciated and helps other home cooks. You can also tag me on Instagram @dashfordinner to share your delicious creations.
Slow Cooker Beef Stew and Dumplings
This cozy recipe for Slow Cooker Beef Stew and Dumplings features tender beef, hearty vegetables, and fluffy homemade dumplings, making it the perfect comforting meal for any occasion.
Rating: 5 from 3 votes
Course: Dinner, Main Course, Main Dishes
Cuisine: American, British, Canadian
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours
Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 455 kcal
Author: Dorothy Bigelow
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
Ingredients
For the Stew:
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1 ½-inch cubes
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 2 stalks celery, sliced into ½-inch pieces
- 4 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
For the Dumplings:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ¾ cup milk (whole milk recommended)
For Garnish (Optional):
- Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
In a large bowl, toss the beef cubes with ¼ cup of flour until evenly coated. (Optional: For extra flavor, brown the beef cubes in a skillet with 1 tablespoon of oil or butter before adding to the slow cooker.)
Place the floured beef, chopped onion, sliced carrots, and sliced celery in the slow cooker insert.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the beef and vegetables in the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on the “low” heat setting for 8 hours. If desired, add a cornstarch slurry to thicken the stew (see notes for instructions) just before adding the dumplings.
Around the 7-hour mark, begin preparing the dumplings: In a medium bowl, mix together 1 ½ cups flour, baking powder, Italian seasoning, and ½ teaspoon salt. Stir in the melted butter and milk until a soft, shaggy dough forms. Do not overmix.
Open the slow cooker and drop large spoonfuls of the dumpling dough on top of the hot stew. Try to space them out.
Cover the slow cooker again and cook for an additional 50 minutes to 1 hour, or until the dumplings are puffed up and cooked through (not doughy in the center).
Ladle the beef stew and dumplings into bowls, garnish with chopped fresh parsley (if desired), and serve hot. Enjoy!
Notes
*For extra thickening: To achieve a thicker stew consistency, prepare a cornstarch slurry by whisking together 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Stir this slurry into the beef stew about 30-40 minutes before adding the dumplings. The stew will thicken as it continues to cook.
Storage: Leftover beef stew and dumplings should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the stew is cooled to room temperature before refrigerating.
To Reheat: Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through. Alternatively, warm leftovers in a pot or saucepan over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add a little water or beef broth if needed to adjust the consistency.
To Freeze: For best results, freeze the stew without the dumplings. Dumplings can become soggy when thawed. Store the stew (without dumplings) in a freezer-safe container or a plastic freezer bag for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Prepare a fresh batch of dumplings to add during the reheating process for that perfect fluffy texture.
Nutrition
Calories: 455kcal | Carbohydrates: 37g | Protein: 41g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 112mg | Sodium: 1154mg | Potassium: 931mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 3818IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 195mg | Iron: 6mg
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