Pioneer Woman’s Crockpot Beef Stew

### Instructions:

#### Step 1: Prepare the Beef and Vegetables
Start by cutting your stew meat into bite-sized cubes if it’s not already pre-cut. Season the beef generously with salt and pepper to taste. In a large skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium-high heat and brown the beef in batches. Don’t overcrowd the pan—searing the meat in batches helps it develop a rich, caramelized flavor. Once browned, transfer the beef to the crockpot.

#### Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed, and sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened. Scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan to incorporate into the stew’s flavor. Once the onions are translucent, transfer them to the crockpot along with the beef.

#### Step 3: Add the Broth and Seasonings
To the crockpot, add the cubed potatoes, sliced carrots, beef broth, red wine (if using), diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and bay leaves. Stir everything together to combine and make sure the ingredients are evenly distributed. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

#### Step 4: Slow Cook the Stew
Cover the crockpot and cook on **low heat for 7-8 hours** or **high heat for 4-5 hours**, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are soft. The slow cooking process allows the beef to become melt-in-your-mouth tender while the flavors meld together beautifully.

#### Step 5: Thicken the Stew (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker stew, you can make a slurry by mixing **1 tablespoon of flour** with **2 tablespoons of water** to form a paste. Add this paste to the stew about 30 minutes before serving and stir to combine. Let the stew cook on high for the remaining time, which will thicken it to the perfect consistency.

#### Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once the stew is ready, remove the bay leaves, and give the stew one final stir. Serve hot in bowls, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

### Tips and Variations:
– **Add More Vegetables:** You can easily customize this stew with additional vegetables such as parsnips, celery, or peas for extra flavor and texture.
– **Potato Variations:** If you prefer, you can swap the russet potatoes for Yukon gold potatoes or red potatoes. Yukon golds will add a creamier texture, while red potatoes hold their shape well.
– **Make it Spicy:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to bring some heat to the dish.
– **For a richer broth:** Consider adding a tablespoon of butter at the beginning of cooking for a silky finish to the stew.

### Why You’ll Love Pioneer Woman’s Crockpot Beef Stew:
This beef stew is a true crowd-pleaser, full of layers of rich, comforting flavors that only get better as they simmer all day. The beauty of a crockpot recipe is that it’s almost effortless—the slow cooking process allows all the ingredients to come together in a deliciously aromatic way without requiring constant attention. The beef turns out incredibly tender, and the vegetables soak up all the savory goodness of the broth. It’s perfect for feeding a family, serving a crowd, or having leftovers for days.

### Final Thoughts:
Pioneer Woman’s Crockpot Beef Stew is a true definition of comfort food. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or preparing it for a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. The slow-cooked beef, flavorful broth, and hearty vegetables come together to create a meal that’s both satisfying and soul-warming. So, grab your crockpot, gather your ingredients, and let the stew cook while you relax or focus on other tasks. The result will be a delicious, filling meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table!