Discover a wholesome twist on classic comfort food with our easy slow cooker beef stew. Tender beef, zucchini, cauliflower, and onions simmer in a rich broth, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Enjoy a nourishing meal that the whole family will love!
Are you looking for a wholesome, high-protein, low-carb meal that requires minimal effort? This beef and vegetable slow cooker stew is the answer. It’s healthy and incredibly delicious, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
Imagine coming home after a long day to the tantalizing aroma of tender beef and fresh vegetables filling your home. With this recipe, you can enjoy a hearty, nutritious meal that is as easy to prepare as it is delightful.
Comforting Appeal of Hearty Stew
A warm bowl of beef and vegetable stew embodies the essence of comfort food. The tender chunks of beef simmered perfectly and melded beautifully with vibrant zucchini and cauliflower, creating a nourishing and satisfying dish.
The rich beef broth envelops these ingredients, infusing every bite with deep flavors. Each spoonful warms you from the inside out, making it an ideal choice for chilly evenings or cozy family gatherings.
The Nutritional Benefits
This stew is not only delicious but also loaded with nutrients. Packed with protein from the beef and an array of vitamins from the vegetables, it supports a healthy lifestyle without compromising taste.
The inclusion of zucchini and cauliflower adds fiber, which aids in digestion and keeps you feeling full longer. Just 10 grams of carbohydrates per serving aligns perfectly with low-carb dietary preferences.
Simple Preparation for Busy Lives
One of the standout features of this stew is its simplicity. Preparing this meal requires minimal effort, making it a perfect solution for busy weeknights.
With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have everything in the slow cooker, allowing it to do all the work. Once you set it to cook, you can relax and look forward to a delicious dinner without hovering in the kitchen.
The Heart of the Recipe
The combination of ingredients plays a crucial role in the overall flavor profile of the stew. Starting with succulent beef, chuck adds a rich, meaty taste that pairs perfectly with the fresh vegetables.
Incorporating aromatics like onion and garlic elevates the dish, creating a fragrant base that enhances the cooking process. The Worcestershire sauce and spices like thyme and paprika contribute depth, rounding out the flavors beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
To serve, ladle the stew into bowls, and don’t forget the finishing touch—a sprinkle of fresh parsley. This simple garnish brightens the dish and adds a pop of color, making the meal even more inviting.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium zucchini, diced
- 2 cups cauliflower florets
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 4 cups beef broth (low sodium)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Cut the beef into cubes and chop the vegetables.
- Combine in Crockpot: Add the meat, onion, garlic, zucchini, cauliflower, and bell pepper into the crockpot.
- Season: Add the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, then sprinkle with thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until the beef is tender.
- Serve: Once cooked, ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Estimated Nutritional Information (Per 8 oz Serving)
Calories: 360 kcal
Protein: 30g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Dietary Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 4g (naturally occurring from vegetables)
Net Carbs: 8g
Sodium: 700mg (varies based on broth, Worcestershire sauce, and added salt)
Number of Servings: 8
Final Thoughts
This beef chuck stew with vegetables is a hearty and flavorful dish, perfect for a comforting meal anytime of year. The tender beef, paired with nutrient-rich zucchini, cauliflower, and bell pepper, creates a satisfying balance of protein and low-carb goodness, while the thyme and paprika add a warm, aromatic depth. With approximately 8 servings, it’s an ideal option for feeding a family or prepping meals ahead of time. The flexibility to adjust salt and spice levels makes it adaptable to any palate, ensuring it’s as delicious as nourishing.
