Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Irish-Style Beef Stew
My dad calls this the best comfort food he’s ever had and after one bite of this rich, thick gravy, you’ll understand why. This Slow Cooker Irish-Style Beef Stew is a true set-it-and-forget-it dinner made with just five simple ingredients. It delivers fall-apart tender beef, buttery potatoes, and sweet carrots wrapped in a deep, savory gravy no beer required.
If you’re looking for an easy slow cooker beef stew recipe, a cozy winter crockpot dinner, or a hearty Irish-inspired comfort meal without alcohol, this one checks every box.
Why You’ll Love This Irish-Style Beef Stew
Only 5 ingredients simple pantry staples
Minimal prep time just 10 minutes hands-on
Thick, rich gravy naturally thickened by potatoes
Family-friendly and alcohol-free
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8–9 hours (LOW) or 4–5 hours (HIGH)
Ingredients:
2 ½ pounds beef stew meat, cut into large chunks
1 ½ pounds yellow potatoes, cut into large chunks
4 large carrots, peeled and cut into thick rounds
1 (1-ounce) packet dry onion soup mix
1 ½ cups beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Directions:
Place the potatoes evenly in the bottom of a 5–6 quart slow cooker. This creates a base that absorbs flavor and helps thicken the gravy naturally.
Scatter carrots over the potatoes. Keeping vegetables under the meat helps them cook tender in the rich broth.
Place beef stew meat on top in a single layer. Avoid packing too tightly so heat circulates properly.
Sprinkle the dry onion soup mix evenly over everything.
Slowly pour the beef broth mixed with Worcestershire sauce around the edges and over the top. Do not stir. Layering helps develop that signature thick, glossy gravy.
Cook on LOW for 8–9 hours
Or HIGH for 4–5 hours
The beef should be fork-tender and vegetables soft.
Gently stir from the bottom. The potatoes release starch, naturally thickening the stew into a rich brown gravy.
If you want it thicker, let it sit uncovered on WARM for 10–15 minutes.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this hearty slow cooker beef stew with:
Crusty artisan bread
Warm dinner rolls
Fresh green salad with vinaigrette
Buttered peas or green beans
Or spooned over mashed potatoes for extra comfort
Recipe Benefits:
Beef stew meat is affordable and becomes incredibly tender with slow cooking.
Packed with protein, fiber-rich vegetables, and iron.
Alcohol-free and family-friendly.
Leftovers taste even better the next day.
No flour or cornstarch needed potatoes naturally thicken the gravy.
Variations & Expert Tips:
For deeper flavor: Brown the beef before adding to the slow cooker.
Thicker gravy: Mash a few potatoes directly in the slow cooker.
Add mushrooms: Stir in 1 cup sliced mushrooms for an earthier taste.
Extra richness: Add 1 teaspoon tomato paste to the broth.
Sweeter note: Use baby carrots instead of large carrots.
Storage & Reheating:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat. If the stew thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water.
