Smoky Chipotle Beef Stew: A Flavorful Slow Cooker Meal

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting dish that practically cooks itself, this Smoky Chipotle Beef Stew is the answer. Packed with tender beef, smoky chipotle heat, and a medley of vegetables, this slow cooker recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a warm, satisfying meal waiting for you at home. Whether you’re a fan of crockpot recipes beef or simply looking for a new twist on classic beef stew, this dish will quickly become a family favorite.

The beauty of using a crockpot for this recipe lies in its simplicity and depth of flavor. As the beef simmers low and slow, it absorbs the rich, smoky essence of chipotle peppers, creating a bold and unforgettable taste. This is one of those beef crockpot meals that not only fills your belly but also warms your soul, especially on chilly evenings.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through every step to create this delicious stew, from selecting the best ingredients to expert tips for maximizing flavor. Let’s dive into the world of slow cooker beef stew and make dinner a breeze!

Recipe Overview

• Cuisine: American with Southwestern influences
• Category: Main Dish, Stew
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 hours on low or 4 hours on high
• Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes (on low)
• Servings: 6-8

What You’ll Need

To craft the perfect Smoky Chipotle Beef Stew, each ingredient plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture. The beef serves as the hearty base, becoming melt-in-your-mouth tender after hours in the crockpot. Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce bring that signature smoky heat, while vegetables like potatoes and carrots add substance and balance. A blend of spices and broth ties everything together, creating a rich, savory liquid that’s just as delicious as the solids. With these components, you’ll have a standout dish among crockpot dishes that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Gather these vibrant essentials for a flavorful Smoky Chipotle Beef Stew

INGREDIENTS

• – 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
• – 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing)
• – 1 large onion, diced
• – 3 cloves garlic, minced
• – 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• – 3 large carrots, sliced into rounds
• – 2 stalks celery, chopped
• – 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• – 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped (adjust for heat preference)
• – 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• – 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• – 4 cups beef broth
• – 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• – 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• – 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• – 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
• – Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

PREPARATION

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat in batches, searing each side for about 2-3 minutes until browned. This step locks in flavor for your crockpot beef tips. Transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
2. In the same skillet, add diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute. Scrape this mixture into the crockpot.
3. Add the potatoes, carrots, and celery to the slow cooker, distributing them evenly over the beef and onions.
4. Stir in the tomato paste, chopped chipotle peppers, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes, ensuring the ingredients are mostly submerged.
5. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is fork-tender and the vegetables are soft.
6. If you prefer a thicker stew, mix the cornstarch and water into a slurry and stir it into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking on high.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired, alongside crusty bread or rice for a complete meal.

NUTRITION INFORMATION

• Calories: 350 per serving (based on 6 servings)
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 12g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fiber: 5g

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Choosing the Right Cut of Beef for Stew

For the best results in beef recipes for dinner, opt for tougher cuts like chuck roast or round roast, which are ideal for slow cooking. These cuts have more connective tissue that breaks down over time, resulting in tender, flavorful meat perfect for crockpot steak recipes.

Adjusting the Heat Level

Chipotle peppers can pack a punch, so start with one if you’re unsure about spice tolerance. You can always add more heat with extra peppers or a dash of hot sauce near the end of cooking. This flexibility makes it a great option among dinner recipes crockpot lovers with varying tastes.

Vegetable Variations

Feel free to swap in other hearty vegetables like parsnips, turnips, or even green beans. If you’re inspired by crockpot stuffed peppers, consider adding bell peppers in the last hour of cooking for a pop of color and sweetness.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This slow cooker beef stew stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days or in the freezer for 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much, ensuring it remains a go-to among crockpot dishes.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this stew with crusty bread, cornbread, or over fluffy mashed potatoes to soak up the rich broth. It’s a versatile dish that fits right into your collection of beef crockpot meals for any occasion.

Why Slow Cooking Works Best

The slow cooker allows flavors to meld over hours, transforming simple ingredients into a complex, comforting meal. This method is why crockpot recipes beef are often the most tender and flavorful options for busy cooks.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I make this stew on the stovetop instead of a crockpot?

Absolutely! If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can simmer this Smoky Chipotle Beef Stew in a large pot or Dutch oven over low heat for about 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally. Ensure the beef becomes tender by checking it periodically and adding more broth if needed.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Yes, this stew freezes wonderfully. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers or freezer bags. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, making it a convenient option for future dinner recipes crockpot nights.

Can I use ground beef instead of stew meat?

While stew meat is ideal for the texture in this dish, ground beef can work in a pinch. Brown it first as you would with crockpot beef tips, then reduce the cooking time to 4-5 hours on low to avoid overcooking. The result will be more like a chili but still delicious.

How can I make this stew less spicy?

To tone down the heat, reduce the number of chipotle peppers or omit the adobo sauce entirely. You can also add a spoonful of sour cream or a splash of cream when serving to balance the flavors, ensuring it remains a crowd-pleaser among beef recipes for dinner.

Savor the rich, smoky flavors of this hearty beef stew