Slow Cooker Apple Cider Beef

This slow cooker Apple Cider Beef Stew combines traditional hearty beef stew flavors with a sweet twist from apple cider. The result is a creamy, thick brown gravy filled with tender beef and chunky vegetables that simmer all day in your crockpot, creating the ultimate comfort food with minimal effort.

I first made this on a crisp autumn Sunday when I wanted something simmering all day while we were out apple picking. The house smelled amazing when we returned, and now it's become our tradition to make this stew after every fall orchard visit.

Ingredients

• Beef stew meat: Cuts into chunks for the perfect hearty protein that becomes meltingly tender
• Carrots and celery: Providing classic stew vegetables that hold their shape during slow cooking
• Frozen green peas: Adding bright color and fresh flavor stirred in at the end
• Yukon gold potatoes: Offering buttery texture that holds up well to long cooking times
• Onion soup seasoning mix: Creating depth of flavor without chopping onions
• Brown gravy mix: Providing body and richness to the sauce
• Tomato sauce: Adding subtle acidity that balances the sweetness
• Beef broth: Forming the savory foundation of your stew liquid
• Apple cider: Bringing unique sweetness and fall flavor that makes this recipe special
• Cornstarch and water: Creating the perfect thickening slurry for a velvety finish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Combine Ingredients:

Add all your main ingredients to the slow cooker pot. Place the beef stew meat, carrots, celery, peas, potatoes, onion soup mix, brown gravy mix, tomato sauce, beef broth, and apple cider into your slow cooker. Stir everything together until well combined. The liquid should just about cover all your ingredients.

Slow Cook:

Cover your slow cooker with the lid and set to LOW heat. Let the stew cook undisturbed for 8 hours. This long, gentle cooking time allows the beef to become incredibly tender and the flavors to meld together beautifully. The house will fill with an amazing aroma as it cooks.

Thicken The Stew:

After 8 hours, mix the cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl until completely smooth with no lumps. Pour this slurry into the hot stew and stir well to incorporate it throughout. Turn the slow cooker to HIGH heat and cook uncovered for 15 more minutes, stirring occasionally, until the stew thickens to your desired consistency.

Season And Serve:

Taste your stew and add additional salt and pepper as needed. The seasoning packets contain salt, but you may want a bit more depending on your preference. Ladle the hot stew into bowls and serve with your favorite bread for dipping.

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The apple cider is truly the secret ingredient that makes this stew so special. I discovered it by accident one day when I was low on broth and decided to use some fresh cider we had brought home from the orchard. My family immediately noticed the difference and now they refuse to let me make it any other way!

Storage Tips

This stew keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Store it in airtight containers once completely cooled. The flavors actually continue to develop and many people find it tastes even better on day two. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Make It Your Own

Feel free to customize this stew to your family's preferences. Parsnips or turnips make excellent additions or substitutions for some of the carrots. If you prefer a chunkier texture, add diced onions instead of the onion soup mix. For an adult version, replace half a cup of the apple cider with hard cider or a splash of bourbon. You can also add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary in the last hour of cooking for brightness.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty stew stands on its own as a complete meal, but it pairs beautifully with crusty bread, cornbread, or buttermilk biscuits for sopping up the delicious gravy. For a special presentation, serve the stew in hollowed out bread bowls. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a nice contrast to the rich stew. During autumn months, this makes a perfect dinner after a day of outdoor activities when everyone comes in hungry and cold.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use different vegetables in this stew?

Yes, you can substitute or add vegetables like parsnips, turnips, or sweet potatoes for variety. Just chop them into large chunks to prevent overcooking.

→ Is there an alternative to apple cider?

If apple cider is unavailable, you can use apple juice or a mix of beef broth and a splash of vinegar for a similar sweet and tangy flavor.

→ Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can prepare it on the stovetop by simmering the ingredients in a large pot on low heat for several hours, or in an oven-safe dish in the oven at 325°F (160°C).

→ How can I make the gravy thicker?

To thicken the gravy, mix additional cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the stew. Cook on high until your desired thickness is achieved.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months.