If there’s one recipe that has completely won over my family, it’s this Drunken Slow Cooker Beef Stew, also known as Beef Carbonnade. The first time I made it, the rich flavors of tender beef, caramelized onions, and Belgian beer completely blew me away.
I could hardly believe how easy it was to prepare such a comforting meal! Now it’s my go-to dish for cozy evenings or when I’m hosting friends. Trust me, you’ll be making this one on repeat.
Credit: thechunkychef
Ingredients for the Ultimate Comfort Food
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this rich and hearty stew. Each ingredient brings something special to the dish, so don’t skip the details.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – Perfect for browning the beef without sticking to the pan.
- 3-4 pounds boneless beef chuck roast, cut into 1-2” pieces – Opt for chuck roast for its marbling, which melts into tenderness.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances flavor during cooking.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Adds just the right amount of warmth and spice.
- 2-3 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Helps create a luscious, thickened sauce.
- 1 3/4 cups beef broth – Use a quality broth or homemade for maximum flavor.
- 2 large yellow onions, sliced into thin strips – Essential for the natural sweetness that complements the beer.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced – Adds depth and a savory aroma.
- 1 1/2 tablespoons beef base – This boosts the beefy flavor to restaurant-quality levels.
- 12 ounces dark beer (brown ale works best) – A nod to the Belgian origins of the dish. It brings subtle sweetness and complexity.
- 1 tablespoon whole grain Dijon mustard – Adds a tangy, slightly sharp note to balance the richness.
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme) – The herbaceous freshness ties everything together.
- 2 bay leaves – Infuses the stew with a subtle earthy warmth.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour + 3-4 tablespoons beef broth (for thickening) – Creates a silky, irresistible sauce.
- 12 ounces extra-wide egg noodles – Best for serving alongside or mixing into the stew.
- Fresh parsley, minced, for garnish – Gives a pop of freshness and color.
Note: This recipe makes about 12 servings, making it perfect for family dinners or leftovers.
Variations to Customize Your Stew
Looking to tweak the recipe? Here are a few ways to make it fit your preferences or dietary needs:
- Dairy-free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free, so no changes are needed!
- Gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative like rice flour or a gluten-free blend.
- Alcohol-free: Replace the dark beer with extra beef broth for a similar depth of flavor.
- Low-Carb Option: Skip the egg noodles and serve the stew over cauliflower rice or mashed cauliflower for a lighter twist.
Cooking Time
Here’s a quick overview of the time you need:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours and 15 minutes
Equipment You’ll Need
Gather these tools before starting:
- Large skillet or slow cooker with aluminum insert – For browning the beef.
- Wooden spoon – To scrape up all the flavorful bits while deglazing.
- 6-quart slow cooker – The hero of this recipe for hands-off cooking.
- Pot for cooking noodles – To boil the egg noodles perfectly.
- Knife and cutting board – For prepping all the ingredients.
How to Make Drunken Slow Cooker Beef Stew (Beef Carbonnade)?
Making this scrumptious beef stew is easier than you’d think! The slow cooker does most of the work for you, creating a dish that’s full of flavor.
Step 1: Prep and Brown the Beef
Start by seasoning the beef cubes with salt and pepper before dredging them in flour. Heat the olive oil in your skillet or slow cooker insert, then brown the beef in batches. Don’t rush this step! Browning creates a delightful crust and locks in flavor. Once golden, set the beef aside.
Step 2: Deglaze and Build the Base
Add the beef broth to the pan you browned the beef in and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits. This is where some serious flavor magic happens! Pour this broth into the slow cooker, then add your onions, garlic, beef base, beer, and mustard. Mix it all together before layering in your browned beef, thyme, and bay leaves.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for about 8 hours. The low and slow method gives the beef time to become melt-in-your-mouth tender, while the onions infuse their sweetness into the broth.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
About 30 minutes before the stew is done, mix a couple of tablespoons of flour with some beef broth until smooth, then stir this mixture into the slow cooker. Turn the heat to high and let it cook uncovered for another 15 minutes.
Step 5: Prepare the Noodles
Cook the egg noodles in a pot of boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and toss them with olive oil or butter to prevent them from sticking.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Add the egg noodles to a plate or bowl, top with a generous ladle of the beef carbonnade, and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a finishing touch. Alternatively, mix the noodles into the stew before serving.
Credit: thechunkychef
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
After making this recipe a few times, here are my best tips to take it to the next level:
- Brown the beef well. It adds incredible depth to the dish, and it’s worth the extra step.
- Don’t skip the beer or beef base. Both add layers of flavor that really make this dish stand out.
- Use fresh herbs for a brighter, more aromatic finish.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, add an extra tablespoon of the flour mixture during the thickening step.
You can also enjoy similar hearty dishes like this Ground Beef Curry Recipe.
How to Serve Drunken Slow Cooker Beef Stew (Beef Carbonnade)?
Presentation is key when serving this dish! Here are some ideas:
- Serve over a generous scoop of buttered egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or even crispy fries for a Belgian-style treat.
- Garnish with freshly minced parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
- Pair with a crusty loaf of bread to soak up every delicious drop of the sauce. You might also enjoy pairing it with these Garlic Brown Sugar Lamb Ribs for a complete feast.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a general idea of the nutrition per serving:
- Calories: 370
- Protein: High thanks to the beef base and chuck roast.
- Carbohydrates: Moderate, mostly from the noodles.
- Fat: Moderate, contributed by the beef and olive oil.
Make Ahead and Storage
Got leftovers? This stew keeps beautifully! Here’s how to store it:
- Storing: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a pot over low heat or microwave until hot.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
There are so many reasons to fall in love with this comforting dish:
- Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker does most of the hard work for you.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve with noodles, mashed potatoes, or bread for variety.
- Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and wholesome ingredients.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep or hosting guests.
- Rich, Complex Flavors: The combination of beer, mustard, and onions is unforgettable!
Now that you know the secret to this delicious Drunken Slow Cooker Beef Stew, it’s time to try it yourself. Once you do, it might just become your go-to comfort food recipe too. For more beef-based inspiration, check out this Beef Recipe Collection.