Slow Cooker Caramelized Onion Beef Stew

Slow Cooker Caramelized Onion Beef Stew

from http://www.bettycrocker.com/recipes/slow-cooker-caramelized-onion-beef-stew/6f4ed63b-95d0-4ada-8bfc-aa44258fc9d7?p=1

Cook sweet onions to caramelized perfection in your slow cooker, then simmer with beef and vegetables for a satisfying stew.
Prep Time 35 Minutes
Total Time 8-9 Hrs: 30 Mins
Makes 6 servings

2 tablespoons butter or margarine
4 cups halved and thinly sliced sweet onions (about 1 1/2 onions)
2 teaspoons sugar
2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme leaves
1 1/2 lb beef stew meat
1 cup Progresso® beef flavored broth (from 32-oz carton)
1 package (.87 oz) onion gravy mix
2 cups 1-inch pieces diagonally cut carrots
1 cup 1-inch pieces diagonally cut parsnips
1/2 cup frozen sweet peas

Spray 4- to 5-quart slow cooker with cooking spray. In 10-inch skillet, melt butter over medium-low heat. Cook onions and sugar in butter 30 to 35 minutes, stirring frequently, until onions are deep golden brown and caramelized. Stir in thyme and stew meat; place in slow cooker.

In medium bowl, mix broth and gravy mix; pour over meat mixture in slow cooker. Top with carrots and parsnips. Cover; cook on Low heat setting 8 to 9 hours or until beef and vegetables are tender.

Stir in peas. Cover; cook 10 to 15 minutes longer or until hot.
Makes 6 servings