4-Ingredient Irish Pub Classic: Slow Cooker Guinness-Style Beef Stew (Simple Version)
A traditional Irish pub meal is often all about rich flavor, tender meat, and simple ingredients. This easy version uses just four main ingredients and lets slow cooking do the work.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (for a rich, creamy gravy-style version)
- 1 packet onion soup mix
Optional additions (not included in the 4 ingredients):
- Potatoes
- Carrots
- Peas
- Fresh parsley
- Black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the beef
- Cut the beef into bite-sized pieces.
- Pat dry and season lightly with pepper if desired.
- Add ingredients to slow cooker
- Place beef in the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle the onion soup mix over the meat.
- Add the cream of mushroom soup and beef broth.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Slow cook
- Cover and cook on LOW for 7–8 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours.
- The beef is ready when it is fork-tender and the sauce is thick and flavorful.
- Serve
- Spoon the beef and gravy over mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or egg noodles.
Why it works
- Slow cooking breaks down tough beef fibers, making the meat tender.
- Onion soup mix adds herbs, seasoning, and deep savory flavor.
- Cream soup creates a thick, comforting pub-style gravy.
- Beef broth adds richness and keeps the dish moist.
For a more traditional Irish pub-style version, add potatoes, carrots, onions, and a splash of stout beer—but the 4-ingredient version keeps it quick and easy.
