Cracker Barrel Beef Stew Recipe
Cracker Barrel Beef Stew recipe is loved for several reasons. It’s easy to prepare, comforting, and full of hearty ingredients. The stew is loaded with tender beef, carrots, potatoes, and peas, all simmered in a flavorful broth. What makes it even better is that it can be customized to suit your taste preferences.
Prep Time 30 minutes mins
Cook Time 1 hour hr
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 280 kcal
Large pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon for stirring
Knife for chopping vegetables
Cutting board
Measuring spoons and cups
- 1 lb beef stew meat cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cups beef broth
- 3 large potatoes peeled and diced
- 3 carrots peeled and sliced
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 bay leaf
Step 01: Prep the Ingredients
Step 02: Brown the Beef (Optional)
Step 03: Add Vegetables and Seasonings
Step 04: Pour in the Broth
Step 06: Thicken the Broth (Optional)
- Choice of Beef: Use a good cut of beef stew meat, such as chuck, for the best results. Chuck becomes tender when simmered for long periods, giving your stew that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Simmering Time: For a rich and flavorful stew, don’t rush the simmering process. The longer the stew simmers, the more the beef will tenderize and the flavors will meld. Aim for at least 1.5 hours of simmering.
- Thickening the Stew: If you prefer a thicker stew, you can add flour or cornstarch mixed with cold water towards the end of cooking. This will help thicken the broth, making it heartier.
- Vegetable Variations: While the classic recipe uses potatoes, carrots, and peas, you can get creative by adding other vegetables like parsnips, turnips, or celery to enhance the flavor.
- Slow Cooker Option: If you're short on time or prefer a more hands-off approach, you can make this stew in a slow cooker. Brown the beef first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.