There’s something incredibly satisfying about a hearty, slow-cooked stew—especially when it’s prepared in a Crock Pot. This Beef Stew for two is brimming with savory vegetables, tender beef, and a rich, flavorful broth. With a subtle touch of spices and a splash of red wine, this meal promises to warm you up on a cold evening. Whether you’re cooking for a special someone or looking for a cozy dinner for yourself, this easy recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients for Crock Pot Beef Stew for Two
- 3/4 lb (340 g) beef stew meat
- 1/4 cup (30 g) flour
- 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) pepper
- 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) salt
- 1/4 tsp (1.25 ml) garlic powder
- 3 tbsp (45 ml) vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, cut into chunks
- 2 potatoes, cut into chunks
- 1 stalk celery, chopped
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) dry red wine
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup (240 ml) low-sodium beef broth
- 1 tsp (5 ml) Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp (1.25 ml) ground cumin
- 1 bay leaf
How to Prepare Crock Pot Beef Stew for Two
- In a large Ziploc bag, combine flour, pepper, salt, and garlic powder. Add the stew meat and shake to coat. Heat 1 tablespoon (15 ml) vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the coated stew meat and cook, turning to brown on all sides. Remove from heat and transfer the meat to the Crock Pot.
- Add 1-2 more tablespoons (15-30 ml) of vegetable oil to the same skillet over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and cook until lightly browned around the edges, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly. Transfer this mixture to the Crock Pot, placing it on top of the beef.
- Using the same skillet, pour in the red wine over medium-low heat. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan, allowing the wine to reduce by half while stirring. Add Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, Cajun seasoning, cumin, and bay leaf. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes.
- Pour the wine and broth mixture over the beef and onions in the Crock Pot.
- Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. Halfway through the cooking process, add the carrots, potatoes, and celery. Continue cooking until the meat is tender and the vegetables are cooked through. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
This Crock Pot Beef Stew is a wonderfully satisfying meal that combines simplicity and deliciousness. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, it allows the flavors to meld perfectly while you go about your day. The result is a rich, flavorful stew that’s sure to become a favorite. Whether you’re making it for two or preparing extra servings for leftovers, this stew is a fantastic choice for a cozy and comforting dinner.
