Easy Crockpot Beef and Potatoes
This comforting crockpot beef and potatoes dish is the ultimate set-and-forget meal that fills your home with wonderful aromas while you go about your day. Tender beef chunks and soft potatoes simmer together in a savory broth, creating a hearty one-pot dinner that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 2-inch chunks
- 1 pound potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Add beef chunks, potatoes, and onion to your crockpot.
- Pour beef broth over the ingredients.
- Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme. Stir well.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until beef is tender.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to make a slurry.
- Stir the slurry into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking to thicken the sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot.
Practical Tips
Brown the beef first: For extra flavor and depth, brown the beef chunks in a skillet over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes per side before adding to the crockpot. This step develops a rich crust that enhances the overall taste.
Cut ingredients evenly: Cutting the beef and potatoes into similar-sized pieces ensures they cook at the same rate, so everything finishes tender at the same time.
Don’t skip the thickening step: The cornstarch slurry added in the final 30 minutes transforms the broth into a rich, velvety sauce that clings beautifully to the meat and vegetables.
How to Store
Let the beef and potatoes cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the entire dish for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Common Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef? Yes, chuck roast works best because it becomes tender with long cooking, but you can also use beef stew meat or brisket. Avoid lean cuts like sirloin, which may become tough.
What if I don’t have dried thyme? You can substitute with dried rosemary, oregano, or Italian seasoning. Use the same amount and adjust to your taste preference.
Can I add vegetables like carrots or celery? Absolutely. Add diced carrots and celery in step 1 along with the potatoes and onion for extra nutrition and flavor.