Crock Pot Dr Pepper Beef Stew Recipe

Introduction

This Crock Pot Dr Pepper Beef Stew is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for busy days. Tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a unique twist from Dr Pepper make it a family favorite. Let your slow cooker do the work while the rich flavors develop over hours.

Ingredients

• 2-3 pounds stew beef
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 3 carrots, cut into chunks
• 3 russet potatoes, cut into 1-inch pieces (peeled or unpeeled)
• 2 stalks celery, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 14.5 ounces low sodium or no sodium beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup Dr. Pepper (diet can be used)
• 2 (0.87 ounce) packets low sodium brown gravy mix
• 1 ounce packet beefy onion soup mix
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Place stew beef, diced onion, carrot chunks, potato pieces, sliced celery, and minced garlic into a 6-quart slow cooker.
2. Step 2: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the beef broth, tomato paste, Dr Pepper, brown gravy mix packets, and beefy onion soup mix. Stir gently to avoid excessive fizzing.
3. Step 3: Pour the liquid mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker and stir gently to combine. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 4 hours, until vegetables are tender and meat is cooked through. Low heat gives the best texture for the beef.
4. Step 4: Avoid opening the lid or stirring during cooking to retain steam and ensure even cooking. Disturbing stew may lengthen cooking time and toughen the meat.
5. Step 5: If using peas, add them during the last hour of cooking. Stir in just before serving and enjoy your hearty stew.

Tips & Variations

• For a thicker stew, remove the lid in the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow some liquid to evaporate.
• Replace Dr Pepper with a similar cola or root beer for a different flavor profile.
• Add mushrooms or green beans for extra vegetables and texture.
• Use beef broth with no added salt to better control the seasoning.

Storage

Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. This stew also freezes well—freeze in portions for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of beef for this stew?

Yes, chuck roast or beef brisket cut into chunks works well as they become tender during slow cooking. Avoid lean cuts as they can dry out.

Is it necessary to use Dr Pepper?

Dr Pepper adds a subtle sweetness and unique flavor, but you can substitute with cola or root beer if you prefer or don’t have it on hand.

Crock Pot Dr Pepper Beef Stew Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 50 reviews

• Author: Harry
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

This hearty Crock Pot Dr Pepper Beef Stew combines tender stew beef, aromatic vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth enhanced with the unique sweetness of Dr Pepper soda. Slow-cooked to perfection, this comforting dish delivers melt-in-your-mouth meat and soft vegetables, making for an easy and satisfying meal perfect for any day of the week.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat and Vegetables

• 2–3 pounds stew beef
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 3 carrots, cut into chunks
• 3 russet potatoes, cut into 1-inch pieces (peeled or unpeeled)
• 2 stalks celery, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Liquid and Seasonings

• 14.5 ounces low sodium or no sodium beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup Dr Pepper (regular or diet)
• 2 packets (0.87 ounce each) low sodium brown gravy mix
• 1 ounce packet beefy onion soup mix
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients: Add the stew beef, diced onion, chopped carrots, potato pieces, sliced celery, and minced garlic to a 6-quart slow cooker.
2. Mix Liquid Base: In a separate bowl, whisk together beef broth, tomato paste, Dr Pepper, brown gravy mix packets, and beefy onion soup mix. Stir gently to avoid excessive fizz from the soda.
3. Combine and Cook: Pour the liquid mixture over the meat and vegetables in the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 4 hours until vegetables are tender and meat is very tender (low setting is preferred for best texture).
4. Avoid Lifting Lid: During cooking, do not open the lid or stir the stew, as this releases steam and increases cooking time or may result in tougher meat.
5. Add Peas: If using frozen peas, add them during the last hour of cooking. After cooking, serve hot and enjoy your hearty beef stew.

Notes

• Using the low cooking setting yields more tender meat compared to high.
• Do not frequently open the slow cooker lid while cooking to maintain heat and moisture.
• Peas are optional but add color and sweetness if included.
• You can use diet Dr Pepper for a lower sugar option without significantly affecting flavor.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours
• Category: Stew
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: beef stew, slow cooker recipe, Dr Pepper beef stew, comfort food, slow cooked beef