Slow Cooker Caramelized Onion Beef Stew

SLOW COOKER CARAMELIZED ONION BEEF STEW

2 Tbsp. butter or margarine
4 cups halved and thinly sliced sweet onions (about 1 1/2 onions)
2 tsp. sugar
2 tsp. chopped fresh thyme leaves
1 1/2 lb. beef stew meat
1 cup beef broth
1 pkg. (.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.