Hey y’all! If you’re craving cozy comfort food that practically cooks itself, this Slow Cooker Beef Stew and Dumplings is your new best friend. With meltingly tender Beef, hearty vegetables, and fluffy homemade dumplings, this recipe is a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for chilly nights, busy weekdays, or impressing the whole family on a Sunday dinner. Ready to fill your kitchen with delicious aromas and create unforgettable memories? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Beef Stew and Dumplings

Minimal hands-on time thanks to the slow cooker—set it and forget it!
Deliciously rich and savory broth with melt-in-your-mouth beef.
Pillow-soft dumplings that soak up all the flavorful juices.
Perfect for meal prepping or feeding a crowd—leftovers taste even better!
Full of nutritious veggies, making it a complete and satisfying meal.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Beef Stew and Dumplings

For the Stew:

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tbsp olive oil
1 large yellow onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
3 celery stalks, sliced
4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, cubed
1/2 cup frozen peas
3 cups beef broth (preferably low sodium)
2 tbsp tomato paste
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
2 bay leaves
Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp all-purpose flour

For the Dumplings:

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
2 tbsp unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1/2 cup whole milk
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Directions: How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Stew and Dumplings

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season beef cubes with salt and pepper. Brown the beef on all sides in batches, about 2-3 minutes per side, then transfer to your slow cooker.

Step 2: Build the Stew Base

Add onions and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, then add to the slow cooker.
Sprinkle 2 tbsp flour over the beef and vegetables, tossing gently to coat.
Add carrots, celery, potatoes, bay leaves, thyme, and rosemary to the slow cooker. Stir in the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce until evenly mixed.

Step 3: Slow Cook Your Stew

Cover and cook on LOW for 7-8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours, until the beef is fork-tender and the vegetables are soft.
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas.

Step 4: Prepare and Add Dumplings

In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Stir in the milk and parsley (if using) until just combined. Do not overmix.
Drop large spoonfuls of dough (about 2 tablespoons each) onto the hot stew, spacing apart for expansion.
Cover with the slow cooker lid and cook on HIGH (leaving the lid on!) for 30-40 minutes, until dumplings are puffed up and cooked through.

Notes for the Best Slow Cooker Beef Stew and Dumplings

For a gluten-free version, substitute with gluten-free flour blends and check your soy/Worcestershire sauces.
If you prefer a thicker stew, mash a few cooked potatoes into the broth at the end (learn more about thickening tips here).
Try adding a splash of red wine for extra richness before slow cooking (see wine selection options here).

Variations: Customizing Slow Cooker Beef Stew and Dumplings

Herbed Dumplings: Mix in 1 tsp each of fresh thyme or rosemary to your dumpling dough for an herby kick.
Chicken Stew Version: Swap the beef for 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, reduce beef broth to 2 cups, and adjust cook time to 4-5 hours on LOW.
Vegetarian Stew: Use hearty mushrooms and root vegetables instead of beef, substitute with vegetable broth, and omit Worcestershire sauce or use a vegan alternative.

Required Equipment for Slow Cooker Beef Stew and Dumplings

6- to 7-quart slow cooker (best slow cooker options)
Large skillet for browning beef
Mixing bowls
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups & spoons
Pastry blender (for dumplings, optional)

Storage Instructions for Beef Stew and Dumplings

Let stew cool to room temperature, then transfer to airtight containers.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freeze (without dumplings) for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently before serving with fresh dumplings.

Pairings & Serving Recommendations for Slow Cooker Beef Stew and Dumplings

Serve with crusty bread or a simple green salad for balance.
A glass of red wine or dark ale pairs beautifully with the savory, rich flavors.
Garnish with fresh parsley or chives to add a burst of color and freshness.

Pro Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Beef Stew and Dumplings

Leave the slow cooker lid on while dumplings cook for fluffiest results (here’s why).
Browning the beef before slow cooking really enhances flavor—don’t skip this step!
If you prefer extra-crispy dumplings, finish them under a broiler for 2-3 minutes once cooked through (oven-proof crock required).

FAQ: Slow Cooker Beef Stew and Dumplings

Can I make Slow Cooker Beef Stew and Dumplings ahead of time?: Absolutely! Make the stew in advance, refrigerate, and prepare fresh dumplings just before serving for the best texture.
How do I know when the dumplings are done?: Dumplings should be puffed and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean—avoid lifting the lid early to ensure best rise.
Can I use store-bought biscuit dough for the dumplings?: Yes! Drop pieces of biscuit dough directly onto the hot stew and cook as directed for an easy shortcut.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours
Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes