Ingredients
For the Beef
- 1 kg beef chuck (cut into medium cubes)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
For the Creamy Sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped or grated)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons flour or cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ teaspoon thyme
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Start by choosing a good cut like beef chuck. This cut becomes very tender after slow cooking.
- Cut into even cubes (like in the image)
- Pat dry with paper towels
- Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder
Let it sit for 10–15 minutes to absorb the seasoning.
Step 2: Optional Searing (Highly Recommended)
Although you can skip this step, searing adds a deep, rich flavor.
- Heat a pan with a little oil
- Sear beef cubes on all sides until browned
- Do not cook fully—just create a crust
Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
In a bowl, combine:
- Beef broth
- Cream
- Minced garlic
- Onion
- Dijon mustard
- Worcestershire sauce
- Flour (or cornstarch)
- Thyme
- Black pepper
Whisk everything until smooth. This mixture should look thick and creamy, just like in the image.
Step 4: Assemble in Slow Cooker
Place the beef cubes into the slow cooker.
Pour the creamy sauce over the beef evenly.
Add small pieces of butter on top for extra richness.
Step 5: Slow Cooking
Cover and cook:
- Low heat: 6–8 hours (best for tenderness)
- High heat: 3–4 hours (faster option)
During cooking:
- The beef becomes very tender
- The sauce thickens naturally
- Flavors deepen and blend
Avoid opening the lid too often.
Step 6: Final Touch
Once cooked:
- Stir gently
- Taste and adjust salt and seasoning
If sauce is too thick:
- Add a bit of broth or milk
If too thin:
- Mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch with water and stir in, then cook 10 more minutes
Texture and Flavor
This dish delivers:
- Extremely tender beef (falls apart easily)
- Creamy, smooth sauce
- Rich garlic and savory flavor
- Slight tang from mustard and Worcestershire
Perfect comfort food.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot with:
- Mashed potatoes (best option)
- White rice
- Pasta
- Fresh bread
Add a side of vegetables like:
- Green beans
- Carrots
- Broccoli
Tips for Best Results
1. Use the Right Cut
Beef chuck is ideal because it becomes soft during slow cooking.
2. Don’t Skip Seasoning
Season both the meat and sauce for full flavor.
3. Low and Slow is Better
Cooking on low heat gives the best texture.
4. Balance the Sauce
Taste at the end and adjust salt, pepper, or cream.
Variations
1. Mushroom Version
Add sliced mushrooms for extra flavor.
2. Spicy Version
Add chili flakes or hot sauce.
3. Cheesy Version
Mix in grated cheese at the end.
4. Vegetable Version
Add potatoes, carrots, or peas into the slow cooker.
Storage
- Refrigerate up to 4 days
- Freeze up to 2 months
Reheating
- Reheat on stove over low heat
- Add a little milk or broth to loosen sauce
Common Mistakes
- ❌ Using lean beef → becomes tough
- ❌ Overcooking on high → dries meat
- ❌ Too much flour → overly thick sauce
- ❌ Not tasting before serving
Why This Recipe Works
- Slow cooking breaks down tough fibers
- Cream sauce adds richness and smooth texture
- Garlic and mustard enhance flavor depth
- Butter adds a luxurious finish
Final Thoughts
This slow cooker creamy beef stew is one of those recipes that feels fancy but is incredibly easy to prepare. Just mix, pour, and let time do the work.