Slow Cooker Beef Stew and Dumplings

A Hearty, Comforting Meal for Chilly Days

Nothing beats the cozy, rich flavors of a slow-cooked beef stew with fluffy dumplings. This dish is the perfect combination of tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a deeply flavorful broth, all topped with light and pillowy dumplings. The best part? The slow cooker does most of the work, making it an effortless yet impressive meal for any occasion.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try?

Growing up, beef stew with dumplings was a staple in my house, especially on cold winter nights. My grandmother would simmer it all day on the stove, filling the kitchen with the most incredible aroma. Now, with the slow cooker, you can achieve that same depth of flavor with minimal effort.

This version keeps things classic but with a few tricks to enhance the richness—like browning the beef first and adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra umami. The dumplings, made with simple pantry ingredients, cook up perfectly on top of the stew, soaking up all that delicious broth. It’s comfort food at its finest!

Want to switch things up? You can swap the beef for lamb, add extra vegetables like parsnips or mushrooms, or even make the dumplings with whole wheat flour for a healthier twist. Whatever you choose, this dish is bound to be a favorite.

Ingredient Notes

• Beef Stew Meat – Chuck roast or braising beef works best for tender, flavorful results.
• Vegetables – Carrots, potatoes, and celery add heartiness to the stew.
• Onion and Garlic – Provide depth and aroma.
• Beef Broth – A rich broth forms the base of the stew.
• Worcestershire Sauce – Enhances the umami flavor.
• Tomato Paste – Adds a touch of sweetness and richness.
• Flour and Butter – Helps thicken the stew.
• Dumpling Dough – Made with flour, baking powder, butter, and milk for light, fluffy dumplings.

Substitutions and Variations

• Use lamb instead of beef for a different take.
• Add mushrooms or parsnips for extra texture and flavor.
• Try a splash of red wine for an even deeper broth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Beef – Heat a pan with a little oil and sear the beef until browned on all sides. Transfer to the slow cooker.
2. Sauté the Aromatics – In the same pan, cook onions and garlic until softened. Stir in tomato paste, then transfer to the slow cooker.
3. Add Vegetables and Broth – Add carrots, potatoes, celery, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours (or high for 4-5 hours).
4. Make the Dumplings – Mix flour, baking powder, butter, and milk until a soft dough forms.
5. Add Dumplings to the Stew – Drop spoonfuls of dough on top of the stew during the last hour of cooking. Cover and let them steam until cooked through.
6. Serve – Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!

Expert Tips for the Best Results

• Brown the Meat First – It adds a deep, caramelized flavor to the stew.
• Don’t Overmix the Dumpling Dough – Stir until just combined to keep them light and fluffy.
• Let the Dumplings Steam – Keep the lid closed while they cook to ensure they puff up properly.

Serving Suggestions

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze the stew (without dumplings) for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of broth if needed. Reheat dumplings separately to avoid sogginess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! The stew can be made a day in advance and reheated, then add fresh dumplings before serving.

What’s the best beef for stew? Chuck roast is ideal because it becomes tender and flavorful after slow cooking.

Can I cook the dumplings in the oven instead? Yes! Bake them separately at 375°F for 15 minutes, then add them to the stew.

Try This Cozy Meal!

Slow Cooker Beef Stew and Dumplings is the ultimate comfort food. It’s rich, hearty, and incredibly easy to make. Whether it’s a family dinner or a meal prep favorite, this dish will keep you warm and satisfied. Let me know if you try it—I’d love to hear how it turns out!

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