Crockpot Dinners

Crockpot dinners are perfect for busy families who need quick, easy, and nutritious meals. These meals are especially significant because they allow you to prepare food ahead of time and let the slow cooker do all the work. You can throw all the ingredients in the morning, set the timer, and come home to a fully cooked meal. 

 Crockpot Beef Stew

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds of beef stew meat, cubed
• 3 large carrots, sliced
• 2 medium potatoes, diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 3 cups beef broth (low sodium)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons flour (optional, for thickening)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear the beef cubes until browned. Transfer to the crockpot.
2. Prepare Vegetables: Add carrots, potatoes, onion, and celery to the crockpot.
3. Add Broth and Seasonings: Stir in beef broth, tomato paste, garlic, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.
5. Thicken (Optional): If you want a thicker stew, mix 2 tablespoons of flour with a bit of water to create a slurry. Add this to the crockpot 30 minutes before serving and stir.