Slow Cooker Mediterranean Beef Stew is a deeply comforting and richly flavored dish inspired by the sun-soaked ingredients of Mediterranean cuisine. Tender chunks of beef are slowly simmered with tomatoes, olives, herbs, garlic, and vegetables, creating a stew that is hearty yet fresh and aromatic.

The slow cooker allows the flavors to develop gradually, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth beef and a sauce infused with herbs and spices.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it is effortless yet incredibly flavorful. The slow cooker transforms simple ingredients into a rich, complex stew, and the Mediterranean flavors make it feel lighter and fresher than classic beef stews. It’s a comforting meal that feels wholesome, rustic, and elegant at the same time.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This is a must-try dish because it combines the ease of slow cooking with the bold, healthy flavors of the Mediterranean. It’s ideal for meal prep, family dinners, or entertaining, and it tastes even better the next day. If you enjoy tender beef, aromatic herbs, and tomato-based sauces, this stew deserves a place in your recipe collection.

Preparation Time, Cooking Time, Servings, and Nutrition

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 7–8 hours on low or 4–5 hours on high
Total Time: Approximately 8 hours

Servings: 6 servings
Calories: Approximately 420–460 calories per serving

Course: Main Course / Stew
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients

• 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1½-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup baby potatoes, halved
• 1 cup carrots, sliced
• 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
• ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Cooking Directions

Brown the beef in olive oil until seared on all sides. Transfer beef to the slow cooker. Add onions, garlic, tomatoes, tomato paste, broth, vegetables, olives, herbs, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Cover and cook until beef is tender. Remove bay leaf before serving and garnish with fresh herbs.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add beef cubes and brown on all sides for 4–5 minutes. Transfer beef to the slow cooker.

Step 2: In the same skillet, add chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

Step 3: Transfer onion and garlic mixture to the slow cooker. Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, potatoes, carrots, bell peppers, and olives.

Step 4: Sprinkle in oregano, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and add the bay leaf. Stir gently to combine.

Step 5: Cover and cook on low for 7–8 hours or on high for 4–5 hours, until beef is fork-tender and vegetables are cooked through.

Step 6: Taste and adjust seasoning. Remove bay leaf before serving.

Step 7: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil and serve warm.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve Slow Cooker Mediterranean Beef Stew hot in deep bowls. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread, warm pita, couscous, or creamy mashed potatoes. A simple green salad or roasted vegetables make excellent side dishes.

Recipe Tips

Searing the beef adds extra depth of flavor. Use good-quality olives for best results. Do not overfill the slow cooker to ensure even cooking. Taste and adjust seasoning at the end, as flavors concentrate during slow cooking.

Variations in Detail

Add chickpeas or white beans for extra protein and texture. Substitute potatoes with sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor. Include zucchini or eggplant for a more vegetable-forward stew. Use red wine instead of part of the broth for a deeper, richer sauce.

Freezing and Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This stew freezes very well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Special Equipment Needed

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet for browning beef
• Knife and cutting board
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I skip browning the beef?
Yes, but browning adds extra flavor and is highly recommended.

Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, beef brisket or stew meat works well, but chuck is ideal for tenderness.

Can this be made on the stovetop?
Yes, simmer gently on low heat for 2½–3 hours until beef is tender.

Is this stew spicy?
No, it is mild and aromatic, but you can add chili flakes for heat.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Mediterranean Beef Stew is a hearty, flavorful, and nourishing dish that combines tender beef with the vibrant ingredients of Mediterranean cuisine. Easy to prepare and deeply satisfying, it’s perfect for cozy family meals or make-ahead dinners. With its rich sauce, aromatic herbs, and melt-in-your-mouth texture, this stew is a comforting classic you’ll return to again and again.