Name: Comforting Beef and Lager Stew in the Slow Cooker
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 30 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup lager beer; 1 large onion, chopped; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional); 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 2 bay leaves; 2 cups low-sodium beef broth; 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes; 2 sprigs fresh thyme; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced; 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed

This hearty beef and lager stew is a cozy, slow-cooked masterpiece, blending tender beef, robust lager, and earthy vegetables. Perfect for chilly evenings, it fills your home with rich aromas, delivering soul-warming comfort in every bite. Ideal for busy days, this set-it-and-forget-it dish is a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This beef and lager stew is the ultimate comfort food, offering a rich, savory depth that only a slow cooker can achieve. The lager adds a unique, malty flavor that complements the tender beef, while the vegetables soak up the delicious broth, creating a balanced, satisfying meal. It’s incredibly easy to prepare—just toss the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it work its magic. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this stew is forgiving, versatile, and guaranteed to impress with minimal effort. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen as it simmers is pure comfort!

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Brown the Beef: Searing the beef before adding it to the slow cooker enhances flavor through caramelization.
Deglaze the Pan: After browning, use a splash of lager to scrape up the flavorful bits from the pan.
Layer Strategically: Place root vegetables at the bottom of the slow cooker for even cooking.
Don’t Skip the Flour: Coating the beef in flour helps thicken the stew naturally.
Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the stew and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
Use Low Heat: Cooking on low for 8 hours yields the most tender beef and melded flavors.
Skim Excess Fat: If the stew is too greasy, skim the surface with a spoon before serving.

Yield: Serves 6

Comforting Beef and Lager Stew in the Slow Cooker

Tender beef, hearty vegetables, and rich lager simmer in a slow cooker for a cozy, flavorful stew.

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 8 hours

Additional Time 10 minutes

Total Time 8 hours 30 minutes

Ingredients

1 cup lager beer
1 large onion, chopped
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 bay leaves
2 cups low-sodium beef broth
2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 sprigs fresh thyme
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons tomato paste
3 garlic cloves, minced
3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed

Instructions

Prepare the Beef: Pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper. Toss them in flour to coat lightly.
Sear for Flavor: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches, about 3-4 minutes per side, then transfer to the slow cooker.
Deglaze the Pan: Pour a splash of lager into the skillet, scraping up the browned bits. Add this to the slow cooker for extra flavor.
Layer the Veggies: Place potatoes, carrots, and onions in the slow cooker, spreading them evenly under and around the beef.
Add Aromatics: Sprinkle minced garlic over the vegetables, then add thyme sprigs and bay leaves for that cozy, herby scent.
Mix the Liquids: In a bowl, whisk together the remaining lager, beef broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce (if using). Pour over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
Set and Forget: Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is fork-tender.
Check the Consistency: Once cooked, stir gently. If too thin, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water and stir in, cooking for 10 more minutes.
Taste and Adjust: Remove bay leaves and thyme stems. Taste the stew and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or a dash of Worcestershire.
Serve with Love: Ladle into bowls and serve with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort meal.

Notes

For the best flavor, use a lager you enjoy drinking, as its taste will shine through.
Avoid opening the slow cooker lid during cooking to maintain consistent heat.
If the stew is too thick, thin it with a bit more broth or water before serving.
This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 535Total Fat 28gSaturated Fat 10gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 16gCholesterol 125mgSodium 687mgCarbohydrates 28gFiber 3gSugar 4gProtein 42g

The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes

The star of this stew is the beef chuck roast, a budget-friendly cut that becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender when slow-cooked. Lager, a light, crisp beer, adds a subtle bitterness and depth without overpowering the dish—opt for a quality brand for the best flavor. Root vegetables like carrots and potatoes provide hearty texture, while onions and garlic build a savory base. Fresh thyme and bay leaves infuse an earthy aroma, and tomato paste adds a touch of umami richness. Flour helps thicken the broth, and beef broth ensures a robust, meaty flavor. If possible, choose low-sodium broth to control the saltiness.

Variations and Substitutions

Beef Alternatives: Swap chuck roast for brisket or stew meat, or use lamb for a different flavor profile.
Beer Options: Substitute lager with stout or ale for a richer, darker stew, or use non-alcoholic beer for a similar taste.
Vegetable Swaps: Try parsnips, turnips, or sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a twist.
Gluten-Free: Use cornstarch instead of flour and ensure the lager is gluten-free.
Herb Variations: Rosemary or oregano can replace thyme for a different herbal note.
Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium broth and omit added salt for a heart-healthier version.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for heat.

Storage Options

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Freezer: Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Meal Prep: Portion into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches.
Tip: The stew thickens as it sits, so add a splash of broth when reheating if needed.