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.

Ingredients

Scale

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)

Instructions

Prepare Ingredients: Add the stew beef, diced onion, chopped carrots, potato pieces, sliced celery, and minced garlic to a 6-quart slow cooker.
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.
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).
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.
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