It feels like a dream when the first cool autumn day comes in and you are able to use your crockpot again. In my opinion, this Fall Harvest Stew made with Crockpot is the best representation of autumn in a bowl—hot, filling, and nicely blended between the two opposite tastes—the savory and the sweet. Besides, each time I prepare it, my kitchen gets the scent of baked vegetables, spices, and a warm retreat in the middle of the forest. It is a recipe that very much encourages snuggling up under a blanket with a big spoon.

What is Crockpot Fall Harvest Stew?

Tender beef or chicken, alongside butternut squash, carrots, potatoes, apples, and a tiny bit of maple syrup to tickle the taste buds with sweetness—this is the combination of fall flavors in the stew. Everything is cooked slowly and carefully in the slow cooker, so your meal will be ready in the evening with the taste of being cooked for a day (well, actually, it was). It is the right food to soothe and fill your stomach, and to make your dinner time almost a no-kitchen-work situation.

Why This Recipe is Special

This is not yet another slow-cooker stew recipe. Rather, it is embracing with open arms the bountiful harvest of the season. The autumnal sweetness of the apples and squash is one of the most beautiful things at the recipe, which is meaty and a savory depth. The best part may be that it is very generous of you—if you want to change the ingredients, spices, or go vegetarian—it is always delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: All one needs to do is chop them up, place them in the crockpot, and let the magic happen.
Full of Fall Flavor: Apples, roots, and herbs make every bite cozy and satisfying.
Meal Prep Friendly: It yields leftovers that taste even better the following day.
Healthy and Balanced: Full of fiber, vitamins, and lean protein.
Kid-Friendly: This one is a hit with everyone from toddlers to grandparents.

Tools You’ll Need

You don’t need fancy gear here—just the basics:

Crockpot (Slow Cooker) – The star of the show. A 6-quart model works best.
Cutting Board and Sharp Knife – You’ll be chopping a good mix of veggies, so make sure your knife is sharp.
Vegetable Peeler – For peeling carrots and squash (unless you like rustic skins!).
Wooden Spoon or Ladle – To stir gently without scratching your slow cooker.
Measuring Cups and Spoons – Helps get the flavor balance just right.

Related: Creamy Rigatoni Alfredo Cajun

Ingredients

(Serves 6–8 people)

Main Ingredients

1 ½ lb (680 g) stew beef (or boneless chicken thighs), cut into 1-inch cubes
2 cups (300 g) butternut squash, peeled and cubed
2 medium potatoes (about 400 g), diced
2 carrots, sliced into thick rounds
1 apple, peeled and chopped (Honeycrisp or Fuji work great)
1 small onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup (240 ml) beef or chicken broth
1 cup (240 ml) apple cider (not vinegar!)
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon rosemary
1 bay leaf
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Add-Ins

1 cup (150 g) mushrooms, sliced
½ cup (75 g) frozen peas, added in the last 30 minutes
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar, for depth of flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the meat (optional but worth it)

If you have a little bit of time, about 5 to 10 minutes, sear the meat in a skillet that has been slightly greased with oil. The stew will still be delicious even if you leave out this step.

2. Load up the crockpot

Place all of the vegetables, meat, apple, and spices that you have chopped directly into the slow cooker. I usually put the meat at the bottom-it gets cooked better that way.

3. Mix the liquids

In a small bowl, mix the broth, apple cider, tomato paste, and maple syrup using a whisk. Then pour it over the ingredients in the slow cooker. Gently stir everything to coat it in liquid evenly.

4. Set it and forget it

Cook on LOW for seven to eight hours or HIGH for four to five hours, covered, until the meat and veggies are tender. It tastes even better the longer you leave it.

5. Adjust seasoning

When done, taste it and adjust salt or pepper as needed. Sometimes, I add a bit of balsamic vinegar at the end to enhance the flavors.

6. Serve warm

Pour into bowls, if you wish, top with fresh parsley or thyme, and wait for that first cozy spoonful.

Serving Ideas

Serve with crusty bread or buttery dinner rolls to soak up the broth.
A side of mashed potatoes makes it extra hearty.
Sprinkle a little Parmesan on top for a savory finish.
For a cozy twist, serve it in bread bowls.

Variations and Customizations

Vegetarian version: Just skip the meat, and use white beans, or lentils for protein instead.
Swap broth for vegetable stock. Chicken version: Instead of beef, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts.
Sweet potato twist: For an extra autumn vibe, replace regular potatoes with sweet potatoes.
Spicy version: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika.

Related: Creamy Chicken Spaghetti

Storage and Make-Ahead

To store: Let the stew cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers. It keeps in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To freeze: Store in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the crockpot.
To reheat: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until hot. Add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

Pro Tips (and Mistakes to Avoid)

Don’t overfill the crockpot: Leave about an inch of space at the top—liquids expand as they heat.
Use the right cut of meat: Chuck roast or stew beef works best; lean cuts can get tough.
Add delicate veggies later: Peas, spinach, or zucchini should go in during the last 30 minutes.
Brown your meat first (if you can): It’s an extra step, but it adds a ton of depth.
Taste before serving: Sometimes a pinch of salt or squeeze of lemon at the end makes all the difference.

Recipe Info

Yield: 6–8 servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 7–8 hours (low) or 4–5 hours (high)
Total Time: About 8 hours
Calories: ~320 per serving
Protein: 24 g
Carbs: 35 g
Fat: 10 g

Final Thoughts

There’s just something about this Crockpot Fall Harvest Stew that feels like a warm hug after a long day. It’s cozy, comforting, and unbelievably easy to make. Every spoonful reminds me of everything I love about fall—crisp air, golden leaves, and the simple joy of home-cooked food.