Effortless Date Night: Small Crock Pot Beef Stew for Two

Last updated on June 24, 2024

A cozy, no-fuss beef stew made in a small crock pot that’s perfect for a romantic dinner for two, giving you all the comfort and flavor without the extraneous leftovers.

Ready to jazz up your cozy night in with a beef stew that’ll knock your socks off and warm your toes? Welcome to the ultimate small crock pot beef stew recipe for two—simple ingredients, all the right details, and a flavor explosion that’ll have you licking the bowl. Stick around; it’s going to be a deliciously wild ride!

Small Crock Pot Beef Stew for Two

small crock pot beef stew for two

This beef stew is a cozy hug in a bowl. Perfect for a comfortable dinner for two, it’s loaded with tender beef, hearty veggies, and rich flavors. Simmered slowly in a crock pot, the stew develops an irresistible depth of flavor. If you’re up for a romantic dinner or just a night in, pair this stew with your favorite rustic bread for ultimate satisfaction. Trust me, this dish is a game-changer!

  • Cuisine Type: Comfort Food
  • Cooking Method: Crock Pot
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 hours

Ingredients

  • 1/2 pound beef stew meat, cubed
  • 1 cup baby carrots, halved
  • 1 cup diced potatoes
  • 1/2 cup chopped onions
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 1/2 cup red wine (or additional beef broth)
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Cooking Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes on all sides, about 5 minutes. (Cue: aroma heaven!)
  2. In your small crock pot, layer the diced potatoes, baby carrots, and chopped onions.
  3. Add the browned beef cubes over the vegetables.
  4. In a bowl, mix together beef broth, red wine (or extra beef broth), tomato paste, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
  5. Pour this liquid mixture over the beef and veggies in the crock pot.
  6. Toss in the bay leaf, ensuring it’s submerged in the mixture.
  7. Set the crock pot to low, put on the lid, and cook for 6 hours. No peeking – seriously, hands off!
  8. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Suggestions

  • Alternative Ingredients: Swap potatoes with sweet potatoes for a sweeter twist. Substitute red wine with balsamic vinegar for a different zing.
  • Garnishing Options: Freshly chopped parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, or a dollop of sour cream on top.
  • Cooking Tips: For a thicker stew, mash some of the potatoes once cooked. Want an extra kick? Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce.