Slow Cooker Beef and Gravy

There is something special about entering the house to the smell of Slow Cooker Beef and Gravy. When I’m looking for something hearty that requires no fuss, this is my one-trick pony. The beef melts in your mouth, and this rich gravy is just the thing to spoon onto mashed potatoes, rice, or even buttered noodles. Cozy, comforting, and ridiculously easy to put together.

What is Slow Cooker Beef and Gravy All About?

Slow Cooker Beef and Gravy is a rich, savory dish that starts with cooking beef low and slow in a rich gravy until fork-tender. Throughout the commitment of time, flavors marry while the meat stays moist. The gravy thickens, becomes creamy, and beautifully absorbs meaty aromas, the perfect partner to be spooned over every imaginable side. It’s the ultimate comfort food, the true hero on busy days.

Ingredients

For the beef and gravy:

• 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into large chunks
• 1 packet brown gravy mix (about 1 oz)
• 1 packet onion soup mix (about 1 oz)
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp black pepper

Optional for thickening:

• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 3 tbsp water

Instructions

1. Place diced beef into the slow cooker.
2. Sprinkle the gravy mix, onion soup mix, garlic powder, and pepper over the beef.
3. Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce.
4. Gently stir to combine, ensuring it coats the beef well.
5. Cover and cook on LOW for 7 to 8 hours or HIGH for 4 to 5 hours, until the beef becomes fork-tender.
6. To prepare a thicker gravy, mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl and pour the mixture into the slow cooker. Cook for another 15 to 20 minutes.
7. Serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.

Storage Tips

• Fridge: Keep the leftovers stored in an airtight container for up to four days.
• Freezer: Let them cool totally, and then pack them in portions and freeze for three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

• On creamy, smooth, pureed potatoes, for the ultimate comforting meal.
• Over egg noodles, for a very hearty dinner with pasta.
• With crusty bread to soak up the gravy.

Pro Tips

• This adds extra flavor to your beef if you sear it before putting it in the slow cooker.
• Add sliced mushrooms or carrots for a veggie boost.
• Substitute a chuck roast with stew meat to save money.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this recipe spicy?

A: Yeah! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for very mild heat.

Q: Can I substitute chicken for beef?

A: Yes, use boneless skinless chicken thighs and opt for 5-6 hours of low cooking time instead of the regular hours.

Q: Is it possible to make it gluten-free?

A: Yes, this can be achieved just with the use of gluten-free gravy mix, and keep checking the ingredients of your soup mix.

Q: Can I neglect the gravy mix?

A: Yes, just seasoning thoroughly with salt, pepper, and herbs will do, but the food will have a milder flavor.

Try It!

Then slow-cooker beef and gravy will save you from hours standing by a stove: fill you up with warm, hearty goodness and just delicious enough for everyone to ask for a second helping; try it once, and it may well become your favorite weeknight meal!