Easy Crockpot Summer Beef Stew Delight

Name: Easy Crockpot Summer Beef Stew Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-488895H43M45S
Total time: PT-6H40M
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup beef broth; 1 cup water; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 1 cup green beans, trimmed; 1 cup corn kernels; 1 pound small red potatoes, quartered

by Jannet Lisa

27 de August de 2025

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Crockpot Summer Beef Stew has been my go-to for those surprisingly warm evenings when I still crave something hearty but don’t want to heat up the kitchen. I remember one particular summer night, the air was thick and humid, and the thought of standing over a hot stove was unbearable. That’s when I remembered my mom’s simple Crockpot beef stew for summer recipe. The aroma of tender beef and fresh vegetables slowly simmering filled my home, a comforting scent that made the warm weather feel cozy. This light summer beef stew slow cooker version is packed with seasonal produce, making it incredibly satisfying and healthy. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Summer Beef Stew

Incredibly tender beef that melts in your mouth.
Minimal prep time, perfect for busy summer days.
Packed with fresh, healthy summer vegetables.
A budget-friendly meal that feeds the whole family.
This slow cooker summer beef stew recipe is incredibly easy to follow.
It’s a comforting yet light meal, ideal for warm weather.
You’ll find this slow cooker summer beef stew recipe is versatile for any seasonal produce.
A guaranteed family-pleaser that’s both nutritious and delicious.

Ingredients for Crockpot Summer Beef Stew

Gather these simple ingredients for a delightful Crockpot beef stew with summer vegetables. The beauty of this dish is how the slow cooker tenderizes the beef and melds the flavors of fresh produce.

2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces – This cut becomes incredibly tender when slow-cooked.
1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps sear the beef for extra flavor, though optional for the slow cooker.
1 cup beef broth – Provides a savory liquid base that keeps everything moist.
1 cup water – Dilutes the broth slightly and ensures enough liquid for the slow cooker.
1 teaspoon dried thyme – Adds a classic, earthy herb flavor that complements beef.
1 teaspoon dried rosemary – Offers a fragrant, slightly piney note that’s perfect for stews.
1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the other flavors in the stew.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a gentle warmth and spice.
2 carrots, chopped – For sweetness and a familiar stew texture.
2 celery stalks, chopped – Adds a subtle savory note and a bit of crunch.
1 cup green beans, trimmed – Brings a fresh, bright green element and crispness.
1 cup corn kernels – Adds a pop of sweetness and a summery feel.
1 pound small red potatoes, quartered – These cook up tender and soak up all the delicious broth.

How to Make Crockpot Summer Beef Stew

Step 1: Get your slow cooker ready by placing the 2 pounds of beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces directly into the pot. This is the first step in creating an incredibly tender and flavorful easy Crockpot summer beef stew.
Step 2: Pour in the liquid ingredients and seasonings. Add the 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 cup beef broth, and 1 cup water. Sprinkle in the 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Give everything a gentle stir to ensure the beef is coated and the flavors are beginning to meld.
Step 3: Now it’s time for the star summer vegetables! Layer the 2 carrots, chopped, 2 celery stalks, chopped, 1 cup green beans, trimmed, 1 cup corn kernels, and the 1 pound small red potatoes, quartered evenly over the top of the beef mixture. This arrangement helps distribute the vegetables beautifully throughout your stew.

Step 4: Cover your slow cooker tightly. Cook on the LOW setting for 8-10 hours, or if you’re in a rush, you can use the HIGH setting for 4-5 hours. This long, slow cooking process is what transforms simple ingredients into a rich, comforting stew, making this an easy Crockpot summer beef stew. You’ll know it’s ready when the beef is fork-tender and the vegetables are perfectly cooked.
Step 5: Once the cooking time is complete, carefully open the lid. The aroma of this summer beef stew crock pot creation will be amazing! Ladle the hot stew into bowls and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious and hearty meal!

Pro Tips for the Best Crockpot Summer Beef Stew

To ensure your summer beef stew crock pot is absolutely perfect, try these little tricks I’ve picked up over the years. They really elevate the dish and make it taste like it came from a gourmet kitchen, even though it’s so easy!

For an even richer flavor, lightly sear the beef chuck in a hot skillet with a bit of oil before adding it to the slow cooker. This caramelizes the outside and adds incredible depth.
Don’t be afraid to add a splash of red wine along with the beef broth in Step 2. It adds a wonderful complexity to the stew.
If your vegetables tend to get too soft in the slow cooker, add the softer ones like green beans and corn during the last hour of cooking.
Taste and adjust seasonings before serving. Sometimes, a little extra salt and pepper can make all the difference in bringing out the flavors of the crockpot beef stew with summer vegetables.

What’s the secret to perfect Crockpot Summer Beef Stew?

The secret is in the slow and low cooking, which tenderizes the beef beautifully. Using a good cut like chuck roast and letting it simmer for hours allows the flavors to meld perfectly, creating a truly satisfying and light summer beef stew slow cooker meal.

Can I make Crockpot Summer Beef Stew ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can! You can prep all the ingredients the night before and store them in the slow cooker insert in the refrigerator. Just pop it in the cooker and start it in the morning. It’s a fantastic way to streamline your cooking process.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Crockpot Summer Beef Stew?

A common pitfall is overcooking the vegetables, making them mushy. To avoid this, add more tender vegetables like peas or corn during the last hour. Also, don’t overfill your slow cooker; it should be about two-thirds full for even cooking. Lastly, avoid stirring too often, as this releases heat and can prolong cooking time.

Best Ways to Serve Crockpot Summer Beef Stew

This hearty yet light Crockpot Summer Beef Stew is incredibly versatile! It’s wonderful on its own, but I love serving it with a crusty baguette or some warm, fluffy biscuits to soak up every last drop of that delicious broth. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a simple side salad or some steamed green beans. Thinking about Summer beef stew crock pot ideas, I often serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Nutrition Facts for Crockpot Summer Beef Stew

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information for one serving of this delicious Crockpot Summer Beef Stew. It’s a great way to enjoy a hearty meal that’s also relatively healthy for a stew. For more information on healthy eating, you can consult resources like the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

Calories: 450
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 500mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Crockpot Summer Beef Stew

Leftovers of this wonderful healthy Crockpot summer beef stew are a gift that keeps on giving! Once your delicious summer beef stew crock pot has finished cooking and you’ve enjoyed your meal, let it cool down slightly on the counter for about an hour. Then, transfer the stew into airtight containers. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, this stew freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Just make sure the containers are freezer-safe.

Reheating is super simple! You can gently warm individual portions in the microwave, stirring halfway through, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat larger batches on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired temperature. This makes enjoying your easy Crockpot summer beef stew leftovers a breeze!

Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot Summer Beef Stew

What’s the best cut of beef for Crockpot Summer Beef Stew?

For the best results in your Crockpot Summer Beef Stew, I always recommend using beef chuck. It has a good amount of marbling, which breaks down beautifully during the long, slow cooking process, resulting in incredibly tender and flavorful meat. This is key to making a truly satisfying summer beef stew crock pot dish.

Can I add other vegetables to my Crockpot Summer Beef Stew?

Absolutely! That’s one of the joys of this recipe – it’s so adaptable. Feel free to toss in other seasonal favorites like zucchini, bell peppers, peas, or even some chopped tomatoes. When considering how to make summer beef stew in crockpot, think about what’s fresh and appealing to you and your family. Just be mindful of cooking times for different vegetables.

How do I make my Crockpot Summer Beef Stew thicker?

If you prefer a thicker stew, a great trick is to make a cornstarch slurry. In a small bowl, whisk together about 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1/4 cup of cold water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking. It thickens the broth beautifully, creating that perfect consistency for your light Crockpot beef stew summer.

Can I make Crockpot Summer Beef Stew ahead of time and freeze it?

Yes, this easy Crockpot summer beef stew is perfect for meal prep and freezing. Once cooled, portion the stew into freezer-safe containers. It will keep well in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. It’s a lifesaver for those busy weeknights!

Variations of Crockpot Summer Beef Stew You Can Try

This Crockpot Summer Beef Stew is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences and what’s in season. Here are a few ideas to get you started!

Heartier Version: For an even more robust meal, consider adding diced sweet potatoes or parsnips along with the regular potatoes. This variation makes for a truly satisfying summer vegetable beef stew slow cooker experience.
Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño pepper along with the vegetables in Step 3. It’s a simple way to add a flavorful punch to your summer beef stew crock pot.
Gluten-Free: This recipe is easily made gluten-free by ensuring your beef broth is certified gluten-free and by skipping the optional cornstarch slurry if you choose to thicken it; instead, simmer uncovered for the last 30 minutes.
Mediterranean Twist: Incorporate chopped zucchini, bell peppers, and a sprinkle of oregano for a Mediterranean flair. This makes for a vibrant and flavorful summer vegetable beef stew slow cooker.

Easy Crockpot Summer Beef Stew Delight - Crockpot Summer Beef Stew - main visual representation