12 Delicious Slow Cooker Stew Recipes for Hearty Meals

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If you’re looking for hearty meals, you’ve got to try these 12 delicious slow cooker stew recipes! Picture tender beef stews, savory chicken and rice, and vibrant vegetarian lentil stew. Each dish is packed with flavor and requires minimal prep time. From spicy chili to creamy mushroom and barley, there’s something for everyone. Plus, with options like sweet and sour pork, you can’t go wrong. Keep exploring to uncover even more cozy recipes that’ll warm your home.

Classic Beef Stew

Classic Beef Stew is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or a cozy family meal. This hearty dish combines tender chunks of beef with an array of vegetables, creating a flavorful and filling stew that warms the soul. Utilizing a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully while guaranteeing that the meat becomes incredibly tender, practically falling apart with each bite.

Making a classic beef stew from scratch may seem intimidating, but it’s surprisingly simple with minimal hands-on time. After prepping your ingredients, just let the slow cooker work its magic. With the right blend of herbs and spices, you’ll have a dish that not only satisfies but also fills your home with an irresistible aroma that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

• 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 4 medium carrots, sliced
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for browning the meat)

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil, and brown the beef cubes in batches to guarantee they sear evenly; transfer them to the slow cooker.

In the same skillet, sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant, then transfer them to the slow cooker as well. Add the carrots, potatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, cover, and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the beef is tender and the flavors are fully developed.

For an even richer flavor, consider browning the meat until it’s deeply seared before adding it to the slow cooker. You can also add other vegetables, such as peas or green beans, in the final 30 minutes of cooking for extra color and nutrition.

If you prefer a thicker stew, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the stew for the final 30 minutes. Finally, let the stew cool completely before storing leftovers in the refrigerator, which will allow the flavors to develop even further.

Chicken and Rice Stew

Chicken and Rice Stew is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for any day of the week. The slow cooker makes the process incredibly easy, allowing all the flavors to meld together while you go about your day. This stew isn’t only delicious but also packed with wholesome ingredients, making it a family favorite that warms both the body and the soul.

The tender pieces of chicken cooked in a savory broth, combined with fluffy rice and a mix of vegetables create a balanced meal in one pot. Whether you’re serving it for dinner on a chilly evening or as a cozy weekend dish, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, the slow cooker allows for the moisture and flavors to intensify, resulting in a dish that’s rich in taste and comfort.

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 cup onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup frozen peas (added in the last 30 minutes of cooking)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Place the chicken at the bottom of the slow cooker, followed by the diced vegetables (carrots, celery, onion), garlic, herbs, and spices. Pour the uncooked rice over the vegetables, and then add the chicken broth. Give it a gentle stir to combine everything, making sure the rice is submerged in the liquid.

Set the slow cooker to low and let it cook for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the frozen peas for an extra pop of color and flavor.

For best results, consider browning the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker. This small step can enhance the flavor even more. Also, feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences—zucchini, bell peppers, or even potatoes can be great additions.

If you find the stew is too thick after cooking, simply stir in a bit more broth or water until you reach the desired consistency. Enjoy your nourishing bowl of chicken and rice stew!

Vegetarian Lentil Stew

Vegetarian lentil stew is a hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re serving it as a main course or as a side dish. Packed with protein and fiber from the lentils and an array of vegetables, this stew isn’t only delicious but also healthy. The use of spices and herbs adds a wonderful depth of flavor, making it a comforting and filling dish that everyone will love.

Plus, cooking it in a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day.

One of the best things about vegetarian lentil stew is its versatility; you can easily customize it with whatever vegetables you have on hand. Carrots, potatoes, celery, and bell peppers work particularly well, but feel free to get creative with seasonal veggies. Additionally, lentils are naturally low in fat and can absorb a variety of flavors, making this stew a great choice for those looking for a nutritious meal that doesn’t skimp on taste.

• 1 cup of brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
• 1 medium potato, cubed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)

Combine all the ingredients, except for the spinach, in the slow cooker. Stir well to make sure everything is evenly distributed. Set your slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the lentils and vegetables are tender.

If you’re using spinach, stir in during the last 15 minutes of cooking to let it wilt before serving.

When it comes to cooking lentil stew, it’s crucial to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you prefer a spicier flavor, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. You can also enhance the stew with additional herbs like basil or parsley for extra freshness.

Don’t hesitate to serve the stew with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of lemon juice before serving to brighten the flavors. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for another day, making it a great option for meal prep.

Spicy Chili Stew

Spicy chili stew is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for warming up on cold days or for any casual gathering. This delightful stew is packed with vibrant spices, tender meat, and a variety of beans that contribute to its rich texture.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the ability to let the slow cooker do all the work, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day. With a blend of fresh ingredients and a spicy kick, this stew is sure to impress family and friends alike.

You can easily customize the level of heat by adjusting the number of chili peppers or adding your favorite hot sauce. Served over rice or with a side of crusty bread, this dish is comforting and satisfying.

• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

In a skillet, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until fully cooked, then drain the excess fat. Transfer the meat to the slow cooker and add the kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, onion, bell pepper, garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, and broth.

Stir everything together and season with salt and pepper. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the vegetables are tender. For best flavor, consider making the stew a day in advance and letting it sit in the refrigerator overnight.

This allows the spices to develop further and taste even better the next day. Adjust the spices and salt after cooking to your personal preference, and don’t hesitate to try different beans or vegetables based on what you have on hand.

Top with fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream for a delicious finishing touch!

Creamy Mushroom and Barley Stew

Creamy Mushroom and Barley Stew is a hearty and comforting option for cooler weather. Loaded with earthy mushrooms, tender barley, and a luscious creamy base, this stew isn’t only satisfying but also packed with nutrients.

Cooking it in a slow cooker allows for deep flavors to meld together while requiring minimal hands-on time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

This stew beautifully combines the natural umami of mushrooms with the wholesome texture of barley, creating a dish that feels both indulgent and nourishing.

Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy. Allow yourself to savor the rich aroma that fills your kitchen as it cooks slowly to perfection.

• 1 cup pearl barley
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (button, cremini, or a mix)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic, sautéing until the vegetables soften, about 5-7 minutes.

Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker and add the mushrooms, pearl barley, vegetable broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cover.

Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the barley is tender. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk and let it warm through.

For an even richer flavor, consider roasting the mushrooms before adding them to the slow cooker. This enhances their natural flavors and adds depth to the stew.

You can also customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, like spinach or kale, right before serving for a pop of color and nutrients. If you prefer a lighter stew, feel free to reduce the amount of cream or substitute it with a plant-based alternative.

Enjoy!

Hearty Turkey and Sweet Potato Stew

When the weather turns chilly, nothing warms you up quite like a hearty stew. This Hearty Turkey and Sweet Potato Stew features tender turkey meat, sweet potatoes, and an array of colorful vegetables that create a satisfying meal perfect for any day of the week.

The slow cooker does most of the work for you, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day. Not only is this stew nutritious, but it also brings a comforting flavor to your dinner table. Sweet potatoes provide a natural sweetness that balances the savory elements of turkey and spices.

Plus, this dish is versatile: you can add in other vegetables or spices according to your preference, making it a perfect base for experimentation.

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 bay leaf
• Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish

In your slow cooker, start by browning the ground turkey in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks.

Once browned, transfer it to the slow cooker, and add in the sweet potatoes, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, chicken broth, thyme, paprika, salt, pepper, and the bay leaf. Stir everything together, cover, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the turkey is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving. This dish can also be made ahead of time and frozen; just make sure it cools completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

When reheating, add a little extra broth if needed to maintain the desired consistency. Enjoy your cozy stew!

Beef and Guinness Stew

Beef and Guinness stew is the epitome of comfort food, especially during chilly weather. This hearty dish combines tender beef with the rich flavors of Guinness stout, along with a medley of vegetables that infuse the stew with vibrant tastes. As it simmers in the slow cooker, the ingredients meld beautifully, resulting in a satisfying meal that fills the home with an irresistible aroma.

Perfect for gathering family and friends, this stew is best served with crusty bread for dipping.

Making Beef and Guinness stew is simple and requires minimal preparation, making it an ideal recipe for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. The slow cooker does most of the work, allowing you to toss in the ingredients and let them simmer away while you attend to other tasks.

This stew’s complex flavors develop over time, with the stout providing a deep, malty undertone that elevates the dish beyond the ordinary.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 medium carrots, chopped
• 3 medium potatoes, cubed
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 can (14.9 oz) Guinness stout
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubes of beef to the skillet and brown them on all sides. Once browned, transfer the beef to the slow cooker.

In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onions become translucent. Add the sautéed onion and garlic to the slow cooker along with the carrots, potatoes, beef broth, Guinness stout, tomato paste, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.

Stir to combine all ingredients. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the beef is tender and the flavors are rich.

For the best flavor, consider browning the beef well before adding it to the slow cooker, as this adds a depth of flavor to the stew. Additionally, you can customize your stew by adding mushrooms or parsnips for extra vegetables.

If you prefer a thicker stew, thicken the sauce with a cornstarch slurry just before serving, or remove the lid in the last hour of cooking to allow the stew to reduce. Enjoy your warm, hearty dish!

Moroccan Chickpea Stew

Moroccan Chickpea Stew is a delightful and aromatic dish that beautifully showcases the vibrant flavors of North African cuisine. This stew is hearty, nutritious, and perfect for those cool evenings when you crave something comforting yet healthy.

With the rich spices and the wholesome goodness of chickpeas, veggies, and tomatoes, it’s a versatile recipe that can easily become a family favorite. By using a slow cooker, you can let the ingredients meld together for hours, developing a depth of flavor that’s truly exceptional.

This dish not only fills your kitchen with a wonderful aroma, but it also provides a satisfying meal that’s both filling and vegan-friendly. Serve it with crusty bread or over a bed of fluffy couscous for a complete meal that will transport you straight to the streets of Marrakech.

• 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
• Lemon wedges for serving

In your slow cooker, combine the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, chopped onion, sliced carrots, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Add the spices: cumin, paprika, coriander, cinnamon, cayenne, and season with salt and pepper.

Stir everything well to assure the spices evenly coat the vegetables and chickpeas. Set the slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together beautifully.

When making Moroccan Chickpea Stew, feel free to customize it by adding other vegetables like zucchini, sweet potatoes, or spinach. You can also adjust the spice levels based on your heat preference.

For a deeper flavor, try toasting the spices in a pan before adding them to the slow cooker. Finally, serving the stew with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley and a squeeze of lemon will brighten the dish up and enhance its flavors. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Mediterranean Vegetable Stew

Mediterranean Vegetable Stew is a vibrant and wholesome dish that beautifully showcases seasonal vegetables, fragrant herbs, and delightful flavors. This stew isn’t only a feast for the palate but also a feast for the eyes with its rich colors and diverse textures. It’s perfect for a chilly evening or as a heartwarming meal for family and friends, and it’s entirely vegan, making it a great option for various dietary preferences.

Utilizing a slow cooker makes the preparation incredibly easy. You can chop the vegetables in advance, toss them into the pot, and let the slow cooker work its magic while you go about your day. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and hearty stew that will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished.

Ingredients:

• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 zucchini, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Place all the chopped vegetables, chickpeas, vegetable broth, oregano, thyme, cumin, and seasoning into your slow cooker. Stir to combine, ensuring the vegetables are well coated with the broth and spices.

Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender and flavors have melded into a delightful stew.

For added depth of flavor, consider sautéing the onions and garlic in a little olive oil before adding them to the slow cooker—it enhances the overall taste.

Feel free to customize the stew by including your favorite vegetables or beans, depending on what you have on hand. To add a creamy texture, stir in a dollop of Greek yogurt or cashew cream just before serving.

Enjoy this stew with crusty bread or over a bed of rice or quinoa for a complete meal!

Mexican Black Bean and Corn Stew

This Mexican Black Bean and Corn Stew is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Packed with protein-rich black beans, sweet corn, and a blend of spices that bring a warm, comforting taste, this stew isn’t only delicious but also nutritious.

With the simplicity of a slow cooker, you can let the ingredients meld together while you go about your day, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead.

To make this stew, you only need a few ingredients that come together harmoniously to create an authentic Mexican-inspired flavor profile. The addition of bell peppers and onions adds a nice crunch, while the spices elevate the dish, making it perfect for serving alongside tortillas or over a bed of rice.

Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, this stew is sure to please everyone at the table.

• 2 cans of black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can of sweet corn, drained
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) of diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 2 teaspoons of chili powder
• 1 teaspoon of cumin
• 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup of vegetable broth
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
• Lime wedges for serving (optional)

In the slow cooker, combine black beans, corn, bell pepper, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and vegetable broth.

Stir well to mix all the ingredients together. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well combined.

For an additional flavor boost, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving, which brightens up the flavors beautifully.

If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash some of the beans against the side of the slow cooker. To enhance the dish and customize it to your taste, you may also add diced jalapeños for a little heat or toss in some fresh spinach or kale in the last 30 minutes of cooking for added greens.

Enjoy the versatility of this stew by pairing it with your favorite toppings such as avocado, sour cream, or queso fresco to create a satisfying meal!

Rustic Potato and Leek Stew

A Rustic Potato and Leek Stew is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for chilly days. The rich flavors of potatoes and leeks blend beautifully as they simmer together, creating a warm and inviting aroma that fills your kitchen. This dish isn’t only delicious but incredibly easy to prepare, especially using a slow cooker, allowing you to set it and forget it while the flavors develop over time.

You can customize this stew by adding your favorite herbs and spices, or even throwing in some additional vegetables such as carrots or green beans. It’s a versatile recipe that can accommodate whatever you have on hand. Serve it with crusty bread for a perfect meal that will nourish and satisfy.

• 4 medium potatoes, diced
• 3 leeks, chopped (white and light green parts only)
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried)
• 1 teaspoon rosemary (fresh or dried)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil (for sautéing, optional)
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

In a skillet over medium heat, you can optionally sauté the leeks and garlic in a little olive oil for 2-3 minutes until softened, then transfer them to the slow cooker. Add the diced potatoes, celery, broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.

For even more depth of flavor, you can add a splash of white wine or a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the broth before cooking. Additionally, if you prefer a creamier stew, consider stirring in some heavy cream or a splash of milk just before serving.

To elevate the dish, feel free to garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a dash of color and freshness.

Sweet and Sour Pork Stew

Sweet and sour pork stew is a delightful dish that marries the contrasting flavors of sweetness and tanginess to create a hearty and satisfying meal. The tender pieces of pork combine beautifully with vibrant vegetables, and together they soak up the rich sauce that makes this stew so irresistible. Ideal for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend, this dish can be prepared in a slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld together perfectly while you go about your day.

Cooking this stew isn’t only easy but also versatile. You can customize the vegetables and level of sweetness to your liking. Whether you serve it over rice or with a side of crusty bread, the sweet and sour pork stew is sure to become a family favorite. Gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a warm, comforting bowl of this flavorful dish.

• 1.5 pounds pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 cups bell peppers, sliced (red, green, and yellow)
• 1 cup onion, chopped
• 2 cups pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup vinegar (rice or apple cider)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Place the cubed pork shoulder in the slow cooker, followed by the chopped onions, sliced bell peppers, and pineapple chunks. In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, ground ginger, salt, and pepper until well combined. Pour this sauce mixture over the pork and vegetables in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shredded.

If you prefer a thicker stew, mix cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the stew in the last 30 minutes of cooking.

To enhance the flavors of your sweet and sour pork stew, consider marinating the pork in the sauce for a few hours before cooking. This will help the meat absorb the tangy sweetness even more. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different vegetables such as carrots or snap peas, which add color and texture.

Serve this dish with jasmine rice or on its own in a bowl for a comforting meal, garnished with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for an extra touch.