Name: Slow Cooker Beef Stew and Dumplings
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 25 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 1 kg beef stewing steak, cut into cubes; 2 tablespoons plain flour; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 2 large carrots, sliced; 2 celery sticks, chopped; 1 large onion, diced; 3 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped; 3 cups beef stock; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 2 teaspoons dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste; For the dumplings:; 200 g self-raising flour; 100 g cold butter, diced; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; About 100 ml cold water

Hey y’all! If you love soul-warming comfort food that’s ultra-satisfying and easy to prep, you have to try this Slow Cooker Beef Stew and Dumplings. This hearty classic brings together melt-in-your-mouth beef, tender veggies, and pillow-soft dumplings—all simmered to perfection in a rich, savory gravy. Perfect for family dinners, chilly weekends, or effortless entertaining, this recipe is always a hit. Let’s get cooking!

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

Set-it-and-forget-it: Prep in just minutes, then let your slow cooker do all the hard work.
Tender, flavorful beef: Each bite is packed with rich, savory goodness.
Pillowy dumplings: Fluffy, comforting, and absolutely irresistible atop the stew.
Ultimate one-pot meal: Veggies, protein, and carbs all in a single dish.
Perfect for leftovers: Tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Beef Stew and Dumplings

2 lbs (900g) beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tbsp flour
2 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
3 medium carrots, sliced
3 celery stalks, sliced
3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 cup frozen peas
3 cups beef broth
2 tbsp tomato paste
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
1 bay leaf
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Dumplings:
2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
4 tbsp (60g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
3/4 cup (180ml) milk
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Stew and Dumplings

Step 1: Prep and Sear the Beef

Toss the beef cubes with flour, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until evenly coated.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Sear the beef in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, until browned. Transfer to the slow cooker.

Step 2: Build the Stew

Add onion, garlic, carrots, celery, potatoes, and peas to the slow cooker along with the beef.
In a small bowl, whisk together beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Pour over the vegetables and beef.
Add the bay leaf. Stir gently to combine.

Step 3: Slow Cook

Cover and cook on Low for 7–8 hours or High for 4–5 hours, until the beef is fork-tender and veggies are soft. Remove the bay leaf.

Step 4: Make the Dumplings

In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. Stir in the milk and parsley until just combined (do not over-mix).

Step 5: Add Dumplings & Serve

Spoon heaping tablespoons of dumpling dough over the surface of the stew (about 8–10 mounds).
Cover and cook on High for an additional 30–40 minutes, or until dumplings are puffed and cooked through.
Ladle the stew and dumplings into deep bowls and enjoy hot!

Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 8 hours (on Low)
Total time: 8 hours 25 minutes

Notes & Cooking Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Beef Stew and Dumplings

For even richer flavor, add a splash of red wine when adding the broth (see these stew tips).
Don’t lift the lid during the final dumpling cooking time or they may not rise properly.
If you like a thicker stew, stir in a cornstarch slurry (2 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water) before adding dumplings (Learn more).

Slow Cooker Beef Stew and Dumplings Variations

Herby Cheese Dumplings: Stir 1/2 cup grated sharp cheddar into the dumpling dough.
Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free flour blend for both stew thickening and dumplings.
Mushroom Lover’s Stew: Add 2 cups sliced mushrooms with the vegetables for extra earthy flavor.

Required Equipment for Slow Cooker Beef Stew and Dumplings

6-quart slow cooker
Large skillet
Mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon or spatula
Sharp knife and cutting board

Storage Instructions for Slow Cooker Beef Stew and Dumplings

Cool leftovers to room temperature, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave; add a splash of broth if the stew thickens on standing.
Freeze the stew (without dumplings) for up to 3 months. For best texture, make fresh dumplings when reheating.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings for Slow Cooker Beef Stew and Dumplings

Serve piping hot in deep bowls with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Pair with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
For cozy evenings, enjoy with a glass of robust red wine or classic English ale (get pairing ideas).

Pro Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Beef Stew and Dumplings

Trim visible fat from beef for a cleaner, less greasy stew.
Don’t over-mix dumpling dough; stop as soon as the dough comes together.
For extra flavor, brown the veggies for a few minutes before adding to the slow cooker (see more tips here).

Frequently Asked Questions about Slow Cooker Beef Stew and Dumplings

Can I use chicken instead of beef?: Absolutely! Substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the beef; reduce cook time by 1-2 hours.
How can I tell when the dumplings are done?: The dumplings will be puffed, firm to the touch, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
What’s the best way to thicken my stew?: If your stew is too thin, mix 2 tablespoons cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water and add to the slow cooker before adding dumplings.