Can I make this BBQ beef stew without a slow cooker?

Absolutely! You can use a Dutch oven or heavy pot on the stovetop. Sauté the aromatics, brown the beef, add other ingredients, bring to a simmer, then cover and cook on low heat for about 2-3 hours until the beef is tender.

What’s the best cut of beef for this stew?

Beef chuck is ideal because it becomes tender with long cooking. Stew meat from the supermarket also works. Look for cuts with some marbling for best flavor and texture.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Definitely! Just peel and chop about two large fresh tomatoes, and add them in place of the canned. If they’re not super juicy, you may need to add a splash more beef stock.

How can I make this stew gluten-free?

Most barbecue sauces are gluten-free, but it’s important to check the label to be sure. Use cornstarch to thicken instead of flour, and you’re all set!

BBQ Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe

Description

This savory BBQ Slow Cooker Beef Stew is a hearty and flavorful one-pot meal, featuring tender beef stew meat, aromatic vegetables, and a rich barbecue-infused tomato broth. With minimal prep and all-day slow cooking, it’s the perfect comfort food for busy days or family gatherings.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Meat

2 pounds beef stew meat

Produce

1 cup onion, sliced
1/2 cup green pepper, chopped
2 garlic cloves, pressed or chopped
8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
14 ounce can tomatoes

Liquids & Sauces

2 cups beef stock
1/3 cup barbecue sauce

Pantry & Seasonings

2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper

Optional Thickener

1/4 cup water (optional)
2–3 tablespoons corn starch (optional)

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Instructions

Saute Vegetables: In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onion, chopped green pepper, and pressed or chopped garlic. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
Combine Ingredients: Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker. Add the beef stew meat, sliced mushrooms, canned tomatoes (with their juice), beef stock, barbecue sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine everything evenly.
Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low heat for about 8 hours. The beef will become tender and the flavors will meld beautifully.
Thicken Stew (Optional): If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 1/4 cup of water with 2-3 tablespoons of cornstarch to make a slurry. Stir this mixture into the stew about 15-20 minutes before serving, and let it cook until thickened.

Notes

This recipe is 7 Weight Watchers Freestyle Smartpoints per serving.
For extra flavor, you can brown the beef before adding to the slow cooker.
You can substitute your favorite barbecue sauce for a personalized taste.
Feel free to add extra vegetables like carrots or potatoes if desired.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
Calories: 350
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 34g
Cholesterol: 90mg