There’s a special joy in seeing everyone gather around the table, eagerly anticipating a warm bowl of comfort food. When the weather turns chilly and the evening skies darken, I find myself reaching for my trusty slow cooker to whip up my favorite Drunken Slow Cooker Beef Stew. The alluring aroma of beef simmering with onions, garlic, and that rich dark beer fills the kitchen, evoking memories of cozy family dinners.
This dish is a delightful fusion of flavors that transforms simple ingredients into a hearty masterpiece. The tender beef, paired with perfectly cooked egg noodles and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, makes for a crowd-pleasing meal that satisfies both friends and family alike. Plus, it’s a game changer for those busy weeknights—set it and forget it while you tackle other tasks or simply relax with a good book. Get ready to experience a cozy evening filled with laughter and great flavors with this easy and inviting recipe!
Why is Drunken Slow Cooker Beef Stew a must-try?
Comforting, hearty goodness: This stew combines tender beef with rich flavors, perfect for chilly nights.
Effortless cooking: With just 10 minutes of prep, you can set the slow cooker and relax.
Rich, bold flavor: The addition of dark beer and herbs creates an unforgettable taste experience.
Family-sized portions: This recipe serves up to 12, making it ideal for gatherings or meal prep.
Versatile serving options: Pair it with egg noodles or serve it over mashed potatoes for a delightful twist.
Crowd-pleaser: Everyone will love this cozy dish, perfect for family meals or casual dinner parties.
Drunken Slow Cooker Beef Stew Ingredients
For the Stew
• Olive oil – 2 Tbsp to perfectly brown your beef for added flavor.
• Boneless beef chuck roast – 3-4 lbs, a great choice for tender, melt-in-your-mouth stew.
• Kosher salt – 1/2 tsp enhances the beef’s natural flavor.
• Black pepper – 1/2 tsp adds a subtle warmth to the mix.
• All-purpose flour – 2-3 Tbsp for dredging, helping to create a rich sauce.
• Beef broth – 1 3/4 cup introduces depth and heartiness to the stew.
• Yellow onions – 2 large, their sweetness balances the savory notes beautifully.
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced to infuse the stew with fragrant goodness.
• Beef base – 1 1/2 Tbsp intensifies the beef flavor for a robust stew.
• Dark beer – 12 oz introduces a unique richness that makes this Drunken Slow Cooker Beef Stew stand out.
• Whole grain dijon mustard – 1 Tbsp for a hint of tanginess.
• Fresh thyme – 4 sprigs, its earthy aroma complements the beef perfectly.
• Bay leaves – 2 add a layer of flavor to simmered dishes and should be removed before serving.
For the Noodles
• All-purpose flour – 2 Tbsp helps thicken the stew before serving.
• Beef broth – 3-4 Tbsp for mixing with flour, creating a smooth combination.
• Extra wide egg noodles – 12 oz, a perfect vessel for soaking up the flavorful broth.
For Garnish
• Minced fresh parsley – to sprinkle on top for a fresh, vibrant finish.
How to Make Drunken Slow Cooker Beef Stew
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Season and Dredge: Begin by seasoning the beef pieces with salt and pepper. Dredge them lightly in flour, which gives the stew a nice thickness and flavor.
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Brown the Beef: Heat a large skillet over MED HIGH heat and add olive oil. Brown the beef in batches until golden brown on all sides, then remove to a plate.
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Deglaze the Pan: Pour beef broth into the hot skillet and use a wooden spoon to scrape any browned bits off the bottom. This adds incredible depth to the stew!
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Combine Ingredients: In your 6-quart slow cooker, add the sliced onions, minced garlic, beef base, dark beer, and mustard. Mix well, then pour in the deglazed beef broth. Add the browned beef, thyme sprigs, and bay leaves.
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Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and let it work its magic on LOW for 8 hours. Enjoy the aromas filling your kitchen while it cooks!
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Thicken the Stew: About 20-30 minutes before serving, bring a large pot of water to a boil for the egg noodles. In a small bowl, mix 2 Tbsp flour and 3-4 Tbsp beef broth until smooth, and stir this mixture into the stew. Increase heat to HIGH and cook uncovered for 10-15 minutes.
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Prepare Noodles: Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions, then drain. Toss them with a drizzle of olive oil or butter and a pinch of minced parsley.
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Serve and Enjoy: To serve, place some egg noodles on bowls or plates, top with ladles of the beef stew, and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Alternatively, stir the egg noodles into the slow cooker before serving.
Optional: Add a dollop of sour cream on top for extra creaminess!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Drunken Slow Cooker Beef Stew
- Fridge: Store leftover stew in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Leave room for expansion, as the stew may thicken when frozen.
- Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of beef broth if it appears too thick.
- Serving Suggestions: Feel free to pair the reheated stew with fresh egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to enhance your meal experience!
Expert Tips for Drunken Slow Cooker Beef Stew
- Choose the Right Beef: Look for a well-marbled boneless chuck roast, as the fat content ensures a juicy and tender Drunken Slow Cooker Beef Stew.
- Don’t Skip Browning: Taking the time to brown the beef first creates depth of flavor through caramelization. It’s a crucial step that shouldn’t be missed!
- Adjust your Seasoning: Taste the stew before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed; flavors can concentrate during cooking.
- Thicken Wisely: Be sure to mix your flour and broth thoroughly to avoid lumps; a smooth addition keeps your stew velvety.
- Fresh vs. Dried Herbs: If using dried thyme instead of fresh, use about 1 teaspoon as dried herbs are more potent.
- Leftovers Magic: This stew actually tastes even better the next day, so don’t hesitate to make it in advance—store in the fridge and reheat gently!
What to Serve with Drunken Slow Cooker Beef Stew?
Cozy up your dining experience with perfect pairings that elevate this hearty dish into a full-fledged feast.
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Crusty Bread: A warm, rustic loaf is ideal for soaking up the rich, flavorful broth, making each bite a delight. The crust adds a satisfying crunch to balance the stew’s tender texture.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes create a comforting base, absorbing all the delicious gravy from the stew. It’s a classic pairing that brings out the best flavors of both dishes.
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Roasted Vegetables: Colorful seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or root vegetables add a beautiful contrast. Their natural sweetness beautifully complements the savory notes of the beef stew while providing a bit of crunch.
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Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette adds brightness to your meal. This refreshing contrast helps cleanse the palate between rich bites.
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Apple Crisp: End your meal on a sweet note with a warm apple crisp. The warm spice from the dessert echoes the deliciousness of the stew, while its sweet-tart flavor provides a lovely finish.
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Beer or Red Wine: Pair with the same dark beer used in the stew or a fruity red wine. These beverages enhance the flavors of the dish and ensure a delightful dining experience.
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Homemade Cornbread: Sweet and buttery cornbread offers a comforting side, perfect for mopping up that luscious stew. The slightly sweet flavor makes for an inviting contrast to the savory dish.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Drunken Slow Cooker Beef Stew ahead of time is a game changer for busy weeknights! You can season and dredge the beef, then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking. Additionally, the onions, garlic, and herbs can be chopped in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply combine the prepped ingredients in the slow cooker as directed. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully overnight. On serving day, just thicken the stew and boil the noodles for a comforting meal that’s just as delicious as if made fresh!
Drunken Slow Cooker Beef Stew Variations
Customize your dish and make it your own with these delightful twists that will amplify flavors and cater to your family’s preferences!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend for dredging and thickening the stew, ensuring everyone can enjoy it.
- Vegetable Boost: Add root vegetables like carrots or parsnips for extra sweetness and texture. Chopped potatoes can add heartiness too!
- Heat Up: Toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick that warms you from the inside out.
- Herb Infusion: Swap thyme for fresh rosemary or oregano for a fragrant twist that complements the beef perfectly.
- Beer Alternatives: Use a non-alcoholic dark beer or beef broth in place of dark beer for a flavorful, family-friendly version that’s just as comforting.
- Creamy Texture: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese at the end of cooking for a rich, creamy finish that enhances the stew’s flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace beef with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, lentils, or chickpeas and swap beef broth for vegetable broth to create a comforting vegetarian stew.
- Noodles Switch: Experiment with other pastas like penne or fusilli for a twist on serving; they soak up the flavors just as well.
Each variation brings something unique to the table, encouraging creativity and delight around your family’s mealtime!
Drunken Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe FAQs
What type of beef is best for this stew?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using a well-marbled boneless beef chuck roast. The fat content in chuck roast helps to keep the meat tender and juicy during the slow cooking process, which is crucial for a delicious Drunken Slow Cooker Beef Stew.
How should I store leftover stew?
Very! After enjoying this hearty meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should remain fresh for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the stew cool completely before sealing it to maintain its aroma and integrity.
Can I freeze the stew?
Of course! To freeze your stew, place it in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion, as stews can thicken when frozen. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating and add a splash of beef broth if it seems too thick.
What if my stew isn’t thick enough?
No problem! If you find your stew isn’t thickening as you’d like, you can create a slurry by mixing equal parts flour and cold beef broth in a separate bowl. Stir this mixture into the stew during the last 20-30 minutes of cooking, and let it simmer uncovered on HIGH heat for 10-15 minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! This stew is not suitable for pets due to its onion and garlic content, which can be harmful to them. Additionally, if you have dietary restrictions or allergies, you can substitute dark beer with a non-alcoholic beer or beef broth to maintain that rich flavor without alcohol. For gluten-free options, you can also use gluten-free flour to dredge the beef and make the stew base.
What are the best ways to serve this stew?
The more the merrier! I often serve this Drunken Slow Cooker Beef Stew over perfectly cooked extra-wide egg noodles, which absorb the broth beautifully. Alternatively, you can pair it with mashed potatoes or serve it with a side of crusty bread for a complete comfort meal that everyone will love!
Savory Drunken Slow Cooker Beef Stew for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season the beef pieces with salt and pepper. Dredge them lightly in flour.
- Heat a large skillet over MED HIGH heat and add olive oil. Brown the beef in batches until golden brown on all sides, then remove to a plate.
- Pour beef broth into the hot skillet and use a wooden spoon to scrape any browned bits off the bottom.
- In your slow cooker, add onions, garlic, beef base, dark beer, and mustard. Mix well, then pour in the deglazed beef broth. Add the browned beef, thyme sprigs, and bay leaves.
- Cover the slow cooker and let it cook on LOW for 8 hours.
- About 20-30 minutes before serving, boil water for egg noodles. Mix 2 Tbsp flour and 3-4 Tbsp beef broth until smooth, and stir into the stew. Increase heat to HIGH and cook uncovered for 10-15 minutes.
- Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions, then drain. Toss them with olive oil or butter and minced parsley.
- Serve by placing egg noodles in bowls, topping with beef stew, and sprinkling with fresh parsley.