Crock Pot Beef Stew (French Onion Pot Roast–Style)
Ingredients
2 lbs stew beef or chuck roast, cut into chunks
1 packet onion soup mix
3 cups beef broth
2 large onions, thinly sliced
3–4 cloves garlic, minced
4 carrots, sliced
3–4 potatoes, cubed (Yukon gold or russet)
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp soy sauce (adds depth, optional but recommended)
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
½ tsp black pepper
1 bay leaf
2 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp cold water (optional, for thickening)
2 tbsp butter (optional, for richness)
Instructions
Layer the base
Place sliced onions and garlic in the bottom of the crock pot.
Add the beef
Place beef chunks on top of the onions.
Season & pour
Sprinkle onion soup mix over the beef.
Add thyme, rosemary, pepper, and bay leaf.
Pour in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce.
Add vegetables
Add carrots and potatoes evenly on top.
Dot with butter if using.
Slow cook
LOW: 8–9 hours
HIGH: 4–5 hours
Cook until beef is fork-tender.
Thicken (optional)
Mix cornstarch and water. Stir into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Finish
Remove bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serving Ideas
Serve with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or buttered noodles
Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme
Tips
For extra flavor, sear the beef in a hot pan before adding to the crock pot.
Like it more “French onion”? Add ½ cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese on top when serving.