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Cracker Barrel Beef Stew Recipe

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.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 280 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon for stirring
  • Knife for chopping vegetables
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring spoons and cups

Ingredients
  

  • 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

Instructions
 

Step 01: Prep the Ingredients

  • Start by prepping your vegetables—peel and chop the potatoes and carrots, and dice the onion. Mince the garlic as well.

Step 02: Brown the Beef (Optional)

  • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat and brown it on all sides. This step is optional, but it helps enhance the flavor of the stew.

Step 03: Add Vegetables and Seasonings

  • Add the onions, garlic, and carrots to the pot. Stir and cook for a few minutes until the onions soften.

Step 04: Pour in the Broth

  • Add the beef broth to the pot and stir. Make sure the meat and vegetables are covered by the broth.

Step 05: Simmer the Stew

  • Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 1-1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender.

Step 06: Thicken the Broth (Optional)

  • If you prefer a thicker stew, mix a tablespoon of flour with a little water and add it to the pot. Stir well and allow it to simmer for another 5-10 minutes.

Step 07: Add Peas

  • Stir in the frozen peas and let them heat through, about 5 minutes.

Step 08: Serve

  • Once everything is cooked and the flavors have melded, remove the bay leaf, and your stew is ready to serve!

Notes

  • 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.