4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Beef Stew: Comfort in a Bowl
It started as one of those “lazy night” experiments — a handful of cubed beef, a few pantry staples, and a slow cooker. I didn’t expect much, but when the aroma filled the kitchen hours later, neighbors were literally asking what was cooking. The secret? Just three simple ingredients that blend into a rich, comforting stew that tastes like it simmered all day under Grandma’s watchful eye.
There’s something magical about coming home to the smell of slow-cooked beef stew — especially when the air outside turns crisp. This 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Beef Stew is the definition of comfort food: simple, hearty, and deeply satisfying.
Perfect for busy days, this recipe proves that you don’t need a long list of ingredients or hours of prep to create something delicious.
Ingredients
2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized cubes
1 packet (1 oz) onion soup mix
1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
1 cup beef broth
Instructions
Place the cubed beef at the bottom of your slow cooker.
Sprinkle the onion soup mix evenly over the beef.
Add the cream of mushroom soup and pour in the beef broth.
Gently stir to combine.
Cover and cook on Low for 7–8 hours or High for 4 hours, until the beef is tender and the sauce is thick and savory.
Stir once more before serving.
Optional Add-Ins & Tips
For extra depth, add 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce or a couple of minced garlic cloves.
Love a chunkier stew? Toss in chopped carrots and potatoes before cooking — they’ll soak up all that rich gravy.
To thicken, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with a little water and stir it in during the last hour of cooking.
Serve piping hot with crusty bread, buttery mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad. A glass of red wine elevates it to a cozy, indulgent dinner.
Conclusion
What began as a simple mix of beef, soup, and broth transforms into something unforgettable — a tender, flavorful stew that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Minimal prep, maximum comfort, and all with just a few ingredients. Sometimes, simple truly is extraordinary.