Slow Cooker Guinness Beef Stew (Video Guide)

Slow cooker Guinness beef stew is a warm, hearty dish ideal for a cozy St. Patrick’s Day dinner. A pint of Guinness, seasoned beef, and everyday vegetables create a rich, comforting stew. Below are straightforward slow cooker directions plus Instant Pot instructions for a faster option.

Ingredients For Guinness Beef Stew

• Beef: 2 pounds of beef stew meat, or another hearty cut such as sirloin, chuck roast, or brisket—cut into bite-sized pieces.
• Guinness beer: A pint of Guinness (or a similar stout) adds depth and a subtle roasted flavor.
• Beef broth: Use low-sodium beef broth to balance the richness of the beer.
• Potatoes: Your choice—red, Yukon Gold, or russets, chopped into chunks.
• Carrots, celery, onion, garlic: Classic stew vegetables for texture and flavor.
• Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, and dried thyme keep the flavor profile simple and satisfying.
• Optional thickener: 2 tablespoons flour (or arrowroot) mixed with 2 tablespoons water to thicken after cooking.

How To Make Guinness Stew In The Crock-Pot

Slow cooker method

1. Add the beef, Guinness, beef broth, potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
2. Cook on HIGH for 3–4 hours or on LOW for 6–8 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
3. If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix 2 tablespoons flour or arrowroot with 2 tablespoons water and stir it into the stew near the end of cooking. Let it simmer a few minutes until slightly thickened.

Instant Pot method

1. Select the sauté function and heat 1 tablespoon oil. Brown the beef in batches, a few minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
2. Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and sauté 5–7 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook 1 more minute. Turn off sauté.
3. Pour in the Guinness and beef broth, scraping the bottom to deglaze and lift any browned bits.
4. Return the beef to the pot and add potatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Seal the lid and set to high pressure for 20 minutes. When the cook time ends, quick release the pressure. If desired, stir in the flour or arrowroot slurry to thicken the sauce, then simmer briefly on sauté until thickened.

FAQs & Tips

What type of beer should you use?

Guinness is recommended for its distinct roasted and malty notes, but any similar stout will work. If you prefer not to use beer, omit it and replace with an extra 2 cups of beef broth for a flavorful, alcohol-free stew.

What cut of beef should you use?

Stew meat, chuck roast, or other tougher cuts like brisket are great because they break down and become tender during slow cooking. Sirloin or a trimmed roast can also be used if you prefer leaner meat.

Can you turn this into a soup?

Yes. Add about 2 extra cups of beef broth to make a thinner, more soup-like version.

Can you make this Whole30 compatible?

Make it Whole30 by omitting the Guinness and using only beef broth. Ensure any optional thickeners are compliant (arrowroot is acceptable).

How do you store leftover stew?

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days. To freeze: cool completely, transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags, and store up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, or reheat directly from frozen in a slow cooker on the warm setting until heated through.

What size slow cooker should you use?

A 6-quart slow cooker comfortably accommodates this recipe and allows room for stirring and expansion while cooking.

St. Patrick’s Day

• Irish Dublin Coddle

• Corned Beef & Cabbage Soup

• Corned Beef & Cabbage with Potatoes

• Corned Beef & Hash Breakfast Casserole

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