25+ Irresistible Crockpot Beef Barley Stew Recipes to Warm You Up

If you’re looking for a hearty, nutritious, and comforting meal to enjoy on a cold day, look no further than a crockpot beef barley stew.

This classic dish is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to make, thanks to the magic of your slow cooker.

The tender beef, chewy barley, and flavorful vegetables meld together beautifully over hours of slow cooking, creating a dish that’s full of flavor and perfect for family dinners, meal prepping, or cozy nights in.

In this post, we’ve gathered over 25 mouthwatering beef barley stew recipes that you can throw into your crockpot and let it work its magic.

From the traditional hearty versions to creative twists with sweet potatoes, roasted vegetables, and even a spicy kick, there’s a stew for every preference.

Whether you like it mild and comforting or packed with bold flavors, you’re sure to find the perfect recipe to satisfy your cravings.

So, let’s dive into these 25+ crockpot beef barley stew recipes that will keep you warm and full all season long!

25+ Irresistible Crockpot Beef Barley Stew Recipes to Warm You Up

Crockpot beef barley stew is a versatile and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

With the ease of slow cooking, you can set it and forget it, knowing that a flavorful and hearty dish awaits you when you come back.

These 25+ recipes give you endless options for customization, whether you prefer a traditional recipe or want to add a twist with seasonal vegetables, spices, or a little heat.

The beauty of these recipes is that they can easily be made in large batches, making them perfect for family meals, gatherings, or preparing ahead for the week.

Each recipe is a complete meal on its own, full of protein, fiber, and nutrients, making it both satisfying and nutritious.

Next time you’re craving comfort food, give one of these crockpot beef barley stews a try, and you’ll have a warming, flavorful dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Hearty Beef Barley Stew with Root Vegetables

This rich and filling beef barley stew is packed with tender beef, hearty barley, and a medley of root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and parsnips. Slow-cooked to perfection, this dish provides a comforting meal, perfect for chilly evenings. The long simmer in the crockpot allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it an excellent choice for family gatherings or meal prep.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 2 potatoes, diced
• 1 parsnip, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place the beef stew meat, pearl barley, carrots, potatoes, parsnip, onion, and garlic in the crockpot.
2. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and beef broth.
3. Sprinkle thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper over the top.
4. Stir to combine all ingredients.
5. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.

This beef barley stew is not only easy to prepare but also offers a well-balanced meal that combines protein, fiber, and hearty vegetables. The slow cooking process ensures that each ingredient is tender and flavorful, creating a comforting stew that’s perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to adjust the veggies and seasonings to suit your preferences, making it a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

Savory Beef Barley Stew with Mushrooms and Onions

This savory beef barley stew is rich in flavor, with the earthy taste of mushrooms complementing the savory beef and wholesome barley. It’s a robust, full-bodied dish with a balance of textures, from the tender beef to the chewy barley and soft mushrooms. Ideal for dinner parties or meal prepping, this stew is sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into cubes
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the beef cubes in batches, then transfer them to the crockpot.
2. In the same skillet, sauté the onions and garlic until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the mushrooms and cook for another 3 minutes. Transfer the mixture to the crockpot with the beef.
3. Add the barley, beef broth, red wine (if using), thyme, black pepper, and bay leaf to the crockpot.
4. Stir to combine, then cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked.
5. Remove the bay leaf before serving and taste to adjust salt and pepper.

This beef barley stew combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms and beef with the chewiness of barley for a hearty and satisfying meal. The inclusion of red wine adds a subtle depth, while the slow-cooked ingredients meld together beautifully. Whether served as a standalone dish or with crusty bread, it’s a fantastic stew that makes a perfect meal for any time of year.

Spicy Beef Barley Stew with Peppers and Cilantro

For those who like a little heat, this spicy beef barley stew is infused with bold flavors from bell peppers, jalapeños, and fresh cilantro. The combination of tender beef, chewy barley, and spicy peppers makes for a unique twist on the traditional beef barley stew. A bit of heat and the aromatic flavor of cilantro add an exciting kick to this slow-cooked dish.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 2 bell peppers, chopped
• 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions:

1. Place the beef stew meat, pearl barley, bell peppers, jalapeño, onion, and garlic in the crockpot.
2. Add the diced tomatoes (with juice) and beef broth.
3. Sprinkle cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the top.
4. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
5. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or until the beef is tender and the barley is soft.
6. Before serving, stir in the fresh cilantro for added brightness.

This spicy beef barley stew is a wonderful balance of warmth, heat, and freshness. The heat from the peppers and the fragrant cilantro make each spoonful a burst of flavor, while the beef and barley offer a hearty, satisfying base. This dish is perfect for those who love bold flavors and is a great option for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. The versatility of this stew also allows for adjusting the spice level to your taste, making it an exciting addition to your slow-cooker recipe collection.

Beef Barley Stew with Sweet Potatoes and Kale

This hearty beef barley stew combines the richness of tender beef with the earthy flavor of sweet potatoes and the vibrant greens of kale. Slow-cooked to perfection, the stew offers a comforting yet nutrient-packed meal that’s ideal for any season. The sweet potatoes add a touch of natural sweetness, perfectly balancing the savory broth and beef, while the kale gives the stew a fresh, nutritious boost.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 cups kale, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Add the beef stew meat, pearl barley, sweet potatoes, kale, onion, and garlic to the crockpot.
2. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice) and beef broth.
3. Season with thyme, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
4. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
5. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours until the beef is tender and the sweet potatoes are cooked through.
6. Before serving, stir to ensure the kale is well distributed and adjust seasoning if necessary.

This stew offers a fantastic balance of flavors, with the sweetness of the potatoes complementing the savory beef and the robust earthiness of the kale. It’s not only filling but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for a wholesome family meal. The cinnamon adds a subtle depth that enhances the natural sweetness of the potatoes, creating a unique, comforting dish that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Mediterranean Beef Barley Stew with Olives and Feta

This Mediterranean-inspired beef barley stew is infused with bold flavors like Kalamata olives, tangy feta cheese, and aromatic herbs. The beef is slow-cooked until it’s melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the barley soaks up all the delicious flavors from the broth. The olives and feta add a briny, tangy contrast that elevates the dish, making it a perfect blend of hearty and refreshing.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Place the beef stew meat, pearl barley, onion, and garlic into the crockpot.
2. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice) and beef broth.
3. Add the chopped olives, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
4. Stir to combine the ingredients evenly.
5. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or until the beef is tender and the barley is fully cooked.
6. Serve with crumbled feta cheese sprinkled on top for extra flavor.

The Mediterranean flavors in this stew provide a unique twist on the traditional beef barley recipe. The salty olives and creamy feta complement the rich beef and hearty barley, while the slow-cooked ingredients result in a deeply flavorful dish. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this stew also works well for meal prep, as it stores beautifully and develops even more flavor overnight.

Beef Barley Stew with Tomatoes and Green Beans

This beef barley stew features tender beef and barley simmered in a tomato-based broth with fresh green beans and a medley of herbs. The green beans add a crisp texture and fresh taste, making this stew a balanced meal that feels light yet satisfying. With its combination of vegetables and beef, it’s perfect for anyone seeking a comforting yet nutritious dish.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine the beef stew meat, pearl barley, onion, garlic, and green beans in the crockpot.
2. Add the diced tomatoes (with juice) and beef broth.
3. Season with basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Stir the mixture to combine all ingredients.
5. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or until the beef is tender, the barley is cooked, and the green beans are crisp-tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

This beef barley stew is both hearty and fresh, with the tender beef and chewy barley complemented by the crunchy green beans. The tomato-based broth adds richness without being overwhelming, and the dish offers a great balance of protein and vegetables. Ideal for a healthy, satisfying meal, this stew is perfect for weeknight dinners or as a make-ahead option for lunches.

Spicy Beef Barley Stew with Chipotle and Lime

If you enjoy a bit of spice, this smoky, tangy beef barley stew is the perfect choice. The chipotle peppers bring a smoky heat, while the lime juice adds a burst of brightness. With tender beef, chewy barley, and a flavorful broth, this stew is a bold take on the classic recipe that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped (adjust for heat level)
• 1 lime, juiced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Add the beef stew meat, pearl barley, onion, garlic, and chipotle peppers to the crockpot.
2. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice) and beef broth.
3. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper, then stir to combine.
4. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked.
5. Before serving, stir in the lime juice for a burst of freshness and adjust seasoning to taste.

This spicy beef barley stew packs a punch with its smoky chipotle heat and refreshing lime finish. The beef is melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the barley absorbs all the rich, flavorful broth. Perfect for those who like their meals with a little extra zing, this stew is a great choice for a bold, flavorful dinner that’s sure to satisfy.

Classic Beef Barley Stew with Carrots and Celery

This classic beef barley stew is the epitome of comfort food, featuring tender beef, soft barley, and a hearty blend of carrots and celery. The slow-cooking process allows the flavors to deepen, creating a well-balanced stew that’s perfect for a cozy night in. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that will have your whole family coming back for seconds.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Add the beef stew meat, pearl barley, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic to the crockpot.
2. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice) and beef broth.
3. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Stir everything together to combine.
5. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or until the beef is tender and the barley is fully cooked.
6. Adjust seasoning before serving and enjoy.

This classic beef barley stew is the definition of simple comfort. The combination of carrots and celery adds a wonderful freshness, while the beef and barley offer depth and texture. This dish is perfect for any occasion, providing a hearty, wholesome meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this stew is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Beef Barley Stew with Roasted Butternut Squash

This rich and flavorful beef barley stew combines the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the savory depth of beef and barley. Slow-cooked until perfectly tender, this stew offers a comforting and slightly sweet twist on the classic beef barley stew, perfect for fall or winter meals.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 1 small butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1 tsp dried sage
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the butternut squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender.
2. While the squash is roasting, add the beef stew meat, pearl barley, onion, and garlic to the crockpot.
3. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice) and beef broth.
4. Add the roasted butternut squash, sage, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
5. Stir to combine, then cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or until the beef is tender and the barley is fully cooked.

This beef barley stew is an absolute treat, blending the savory flavors of beef with the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash. The subtle warmth of cinnamon and sage makes it the perfect cozy meal for colder months. Whether you’re looking for a hearty dinner or a make-ahead lunch, this stew brings a unique flavor profile that everyone will love.

Beef Barley Stew with Spinach and Mushrooms

This earthy beef barley stew brings together tender beef, chewy barley, and a hearty mix of spinach and mushrooms. The mushrooms add umami and depth, while the spinach contributes a fresh, vibrant green finish. Slow-cooked in a flavorful broth, this stew is both hearty and nutritious, making it the ideal dish for a balanced and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Add the beef stew meat, pearl barley, onion, garlic, spinach, and mushrooms to the crockpot.
2. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice) and beef broth.
3. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Stir to combine all ingredients.
5. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or until the beef is tender and the barley is fully cooked.
6. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve.

This beef barley stew is a wonderful way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet without sacrificing flavor. The mushrooms give the stew a rich, earthy taste, while the spinach adds a burst of color and freshness. It’s a nutrient-packed, hearty meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner, and the slow-cooked flavors make it an easy and satisfying option for any day of the week.

Sweet and Sour Beef Barley Stew with Pineapple

A unique twist on the classic beef barley stew, this version adds a hint of sweetness and tanginess from pineapple. The beef is slow-cooked to perfection, absorbing the flavors of the broth and pineapple, while the barley provides a hearty, satisfying base. The result is a flavorful, comforting dish that’s a little sweet, a little savory, and completely delicious.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 1 can pineapple chunks (8 oz), drained
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Add the beef stew meat, pearl barley, pineapple chunks, onion, and garlic to the crockpot.
2. In a small bowl, combine the beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, pepper, and salt. Pour this mixture over the ingredients in the crockpot.
3. Stir to combine, then cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked through.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

This sweet and sour beef barley stew is a delightful combination of savory beef, hearty barley, and tangy pineapple. The sweetness of the pineapple beautifully balances the richness of the beef, creating a unique stew that’s sure to surprise and delight your taste buds. Perfect for when you want something a little different from the typical stew, this dish is both comforting and exciting.

Beef Barley Stew with Zucchini and Summer Squash

A light yet hearty stew, this version of beef barley stew combines fresh zucchini and summer squash with the richness of beef and the chewiness of barley. It’s a great way to incorporate more summer vegetables into a cozy, slow-cooked dish that still feels hearty and satisfying. The gentle flavor of zucchini and squash perfectly complements the beef, making for a wonderfully balanced stew.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 2 zucchinis, chopped
• 2 summer squashes, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place the beef stew meat, pearl barley, zucchini, summer squash, onion, and garlic in the crockpot.
2. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice) and beef broth.
3. Season with oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
5. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or until the beef is tender and the barley is fully cooked.
6. Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.

This beef barley stew is a great way to enjoy the flavors of summer vegetables like zucchini and squash, while still enjoying the heartiness of a traditional beef stew. The vegetables add lightness and freshness, balancing the rich beef and barley. This stew is a fantastic option for a nutritious and delicious meal that’s perfect for any season.

Beef Barley Stew with Corn and Green Chilies

For a southwestern-inspired twist, this beef barley stew includes sweet corn and green chilies. The green chilies add a touch of heat and flavor, while the corn provides a natural sweetness that complements the savory beef. It’s a bold and flavorful stew that’s perfect for those who enjoy a little spice in their meal.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels
• 1 can diced green chilies (4 oz)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Add the beef stew meat, pearl barley, corn, green chilies, onion, and garlic to the crockpot.
2. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice) and beef broth.
3. Season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Stir to combine all ingredients.
5. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or until the beef is tender and the barley is fully cooked.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

This beef barley stew is a delicious combination of spicy and sweet, with the green chilies adding just the right amount of heat and the corn providing a subtle sweetness. The beef and barley create a hearty base, while the tomatoes and broth bring everything together in a flavorful stew. Ideal for anyone who loves a bit of spice, this dish is a comforting yet exciting meal that’s sure to satisfy.

Beef Barley Stew with Cabbage and Caraway Seeds

This traditional-style beef barley stew features the rich flavor of beef combined with cabbage and the distinctive taste of caraway seeds. The cabbage softens as it cooks, adding a slightly tangy flavor that complements the hearty beef and barley. Caraway seeds give the stew an aromatic touch that elevates the entire dish, making it a comforting and flavorful meal.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 2 cups cabbage, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1 tsp caraway seeds
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place the beef stew meat, pearl barley, cabbage, onion, and garlic in the crockpot.
2. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice) and beef broth.
3. Sprinkle in the caraway seeds, salt, and pepper.
4. Stir to combine all ingredients.
5. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

This beef barley stew has a wonderful depth of flavor, with the cabbage providing a mild tanginess that complements the beef, while the caraway seeds add an earthy, aromatic note. It’s a hearty and comforting meal that brings together traditional flavors in a simple, slow-cooked dish. Perfect for cold days, this stew is sure to warm both your heart and your stomach.

Beef Barley Stew with Peas and Parsnips

This beef barley stew combines the rich, savory flavors of beef with the earthy sweetness of parsnips and the freshness of peas. The barley adds a hearty texture, while the peas offer a burst of color and sweetness. A warm, comforting dish, it’s perfect for family meals or meal prepping.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 2 medium parsnips, peeled and sliced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place the beef stew meat, pearl barley, parsnips, onion, and garlic into the crockpot.
2. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice) and beef broth.
3. Season with rosemary, salt, and pepper, and stir to combine.
4. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours, until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked.
5. In the final 30 minutes of cooking, add the frozen peas to the stew.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

This stew is a perfect balance of sweetness from the peas and parsnips with the rich, savory flavor of beef and barley. The parsnips provide a unique twist to the dish, offering an earthy depth, while the peas add freshness. This is a wonderful, warming meal to enjoy on a chilly day or as part of your weekly meal prep.

Beef Barley Stew with Roasted Garlic and Shallots

For an aromatic and flavorful beef barley stew, this recipe uses roasted garlic and shallots to enhance the savory richness of the dish. Roasting the garlic and shallots brings out their natural sweetness, which perfectly complements the tender beef and chewy barley in this comforting stew.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 2 heads garlic, roasted
• 2 shallots, peeled and halved
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the tops off the garlic heads, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap them in foil. Roast for 30 minutes or until soft.
2. While the garlic is roasting, add the beef stew meat, pearl barley, shallots, onion, and roasted garlic (squeeze out the cloves) into the crockpot.
3. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice) and beef broth.
4. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper, then stir to combine.
5. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours, until the beef is tender and the barley is fully cooked.

The roasted garlic and shallots add a depth of flavor that elevates this beef barley stew to something truly special. The slow cooking process infuses the stew with a rich, savory base, while the caramelized sweetness of the garlic and shallots balances out the richness of the beef and barley. It’s a flavorful, aromatic dish that will quickly become a favorite.

Beef Barley Stew with Sweet Potatoes and Bell Peppers

Sweet potatoes and bell peppers add a burst of color and flavor to this hearty beef barley stew. The natural sweetness of the potatoes complements the savory beef, while the bell peppers contribute a fresh, slightly tangy note. A perfect balance of sweet and savory, this stew is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 bell peppers, chopped (red or yellow)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Add the beef stew meat, pearl barley, sweet potatoes, bell peppers, onion, and garlic to the crockpot.
2. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice) and beef broth.
3. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper, and stir to combine.
4. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours, until the beef is tender and the barley is fully cooked.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

This beef barley stew is a perfect balance of savory and sweet, thanks to the earthy sweet potatoes and bright bell peppers. The stew is rich and hearty, with the barley adding a satisfying texture. It’s an excellent dish for a filling meal that’s as colorful as it is flavorful, ideal for family dinners or meal prepping.

Beef Barley Stew with Roasted Root Vegetables

Roasting root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and rutabaga before adding them to this beef barley stew brings out their natural sweetness, creating a depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the tender beef and chewy barley. The earthy roasted vegetables add complexity and a comforting warmth to this hearty dish.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 parsnips, peeled and chopped
• 1 rutabaga, peeled and chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the carrots, parsnips, and rutabaga with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
2. Add the beef stew meat, pearl barley, roasted root vegetables, onion, and garlic to the crockpot.
3. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice) and beef broth.
4. Season with rosemary, salt, and pepper, then stir to combine.
5. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or until the beef is tender and the barley is fully cooked.

This beef barley stew is a wonderfully rustic dish, enhanced by the sweetness of the roasted root vegetables. The depth of flavor from the caramelized carrots, parsnips, and rutabaga brings a comforting richness to the dish, while the beef and barley provide hearty, filling components. It’s a perfect stew for cooler days, offering warmth and flavor with every bite.

Beef Barley Stew with Lemon and Dill

This light yet hearty beef barley stew uses the bright flavors of lemon and dill to infuse the dish with a refreshing twist. The lemon adds a zesty burst, while the dill complements the rich beef and earthy barley. It’s a unique version of the traditional stew, ideal for a comforting meal that feels a little lighter.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1 tbsp dried dill
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Add the beef stew meat, pearl barley, onion, garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the crockpot.
2. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice) and beef broth.
3. Season with dill, salt, and pepper, and stir to combine.
4. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours, until the beef is tender and the barley is fully cooked.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

This beef barley stew offers a refreshing take on the classic dish, with the bright lemon and aromatic dill providing a unique contrast to the savory beef. It’s light yet filling, offering a perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for something a little different or just want to add a zesty twist to your stew, this recipe will become a go-to for delicious meals.

Beef Barley Stew with Mushrooms and Red Wine

For a more sophisticated take on beef barley stew, this recipe incorporates the deep, rich flavors of mushrooms and red wine. The mushrooms provide an earthy depth, while the red wine adds a subtle complexity to the broth. This stew is a perfect option for a cozy, elegant meal.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup red wine
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1 tsp thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Add the beef stew meat, pearl barley, mushrooms, onion, and garlic to the crockpot.
2. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, and red wine.
3. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper, and stir to combine.
4. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours, until the beef is tender and the barley is fully cooked.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

This beef barley stew is rich and hearty, with the deep flavors of mushrooms and red wine infusing the broth. The wine gives the stew a slightly refined, complex taste that pairs perfectly with the beef and barley. Whether for a special dinner or a cozy weeknight meal, this stew is sure to impress.

Spicy Beef Barley Stew with Jalapeños and Chipotle

This bold and flavorful beef barley stew is packed with heat from fresh jalapeños and smoky chipotle peppers. The heat from the peppers is perfectly balanced by the richness of the beef and the hearty barley, making this stew a warming and satisfying dish with a spicy kick. Ideal for those who love a little heat in their meals.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 2 fresh jalapeños, sliced (seeds removed for less heat)
• 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Add the beef stew meat, pearl barley, jalapeños, chipotle pepper, onion, and garlic to the crockpot.
2. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice) and beef broth.
3. Season with smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper, and stir to combine.
4. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours, until the beef is tender and the barley is fully cooked.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving. For extra heat, feel free to add more jalapeños or chipotle peppers.

This spicy beef barley stew is perfect for anyone who enjoys a little heat with their meals. The smoky chipotle and fresh jalapeños provide a deep, flavorful kick, while the beef and barley create a comforting and hearty base. The combination of spicy and savory flavors makes this stew exciting and satisfying. It’s a perfect choice for a cozy dinner on a chilly night or when you want something bold and flavorful.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!