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Spicy Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe

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3.8 from 27 reviews

Bold and hearty slow cooker spicy beef stew made with tender chunks of beef, potatoes, carrots, and peppers simmered in a rich, chili-spiced broth. This comforting crockpot stew delivers deep flavor with just the right kick of heat—perfect for cold nights or when you’re craving something warming.

  • Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Beef and Seasonings

  • 2½–3 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1½-inch cubes
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced (optional)
  • 4 medium potatoes, diced
  • 3 carrots, sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped

Broth and Seasoning Mix

  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 3 cups beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½–1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (to taste)

Thickener (Optional)

  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons water

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley or cilantro

Instructions

  1. Season the Beef: Season the beef chuck cubes with salt and black pepper evenly to enhance the meat’s flavor.
  2. Brown the Beef (Optional but Recommended): Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes on all sides until nicely seared to develop deeper flavor and lock in juices.
  3. Add Aromatics and Liquids to Slow Cooker: Place the chopped onion into the slow cooker, then add minced garlic, tomato paste, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce.
  4. Stir in Spices: Add chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, and diced jalapeño (if using) into the slow cooker. Mix well to combine all spices into the broth.
  5. Add Vegetables: Add the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, and chopped red bell pepper into the slow cooker.
  6. Add Beef to Slow Cooker: Place the browned (or seasoned) beef chunks on top of the vegetables and gently stir everything together for even distribution.
  7. Cook the Stew: Cover the slow cooker and cook on Low for 8–9 hours or on High for 4–5 hours until the beef is tender and vegetables are cooked through.
  8. Thicken the Stew (Optional): For a thicker consistency, mix cornstarch with water to make a slurry. Stir this into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking on High.
  9. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the stew before serving and add extra salt, pepper, or spices if needed.
  10. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a fresh herbal note. Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice if desired.

Notes

  • Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the spiciness from mild to extra hot.
  • Beef chuck roast is ideal for slow cooking as it becomes tender without drying out.
  • For a chili-style twist, consider adding black beans or corn.
  • This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or steamed rice to soak up the flavorful broth.
  • Leftovers taste even better the next day as flavors continue to meld.
  • Author: Jessica
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 hours
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Find it online: https://dishestocook.com/spicy-slow-cooker-beef-stew-recipe/