It was a chilly evening when the scent of slow-cooked beef wafted through my kitchen, filling the air with warmth and comfort. I had come home after a long day, and there was nothing more inviting than the promise of a hearty meal waiting for me. The slow-cooked beef with gravy simmered gently in my slow cooker, creating a symphony of flavors that danced around my senses. With every tender bite, I was reminded of family gatherings, cozy evenings, and the simple joys of home-cooked meals. This dish not only satisfies the stomach but also nourishes the soul, making it a staple in so many households.
What is Slow-Cooked Beef with Gravy
Slow-cooked beef with gravy is a classic comfort food that transforms tough cuts of beef into succulent, mouthwatering dishes through a long, slow cooking process. Utilizing a slow cooker or a Dutch oven, this method allows the beef to cook in its own juices, alongside a blend of aromatic vegetables like onions, carrots, and potatoes, resulting in a meal that is both hearty and satisfying. The slow cooking process, typically at low temperatures over several hours, gives the collagen in the beef time to break down, making the meat tender and juicy. The resulting gravy is rich and flavorful, perfect for spooning over mashed potatoes or crusty bread, enhancing the dish that is both nourishing and easy to prepare.
Why You’ll Love This Slow-Cooked Beef with Gravy
There are numerous reasons why this dish has become a favorite among families:
- Quick and simple to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Perfect for meal prep as it can feed a crowd or provide leftovers for the week.
- Combines wholesome ingredients, promoting a hearty, balanced meal.
- The flavor develops over hours, leaving you with a rich and satisfying dish.
- Ideal for warming up on cold nights or hosting family gatherings.
Overall, it’s more than just a recipe; it’s an experience that brings families together, offers comfort after a long day, and creates lasting memories around the dinner table.
Ingredients
• 2 lbs beef chuck roast
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cups carrots, sliced
• 2 cups potatoes, diced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Creamy mashed potatoes (as a side)
• Crusty bread (for soaking up gravy)
Step-by-Step Instructions Slow-Cooked Beef with Gravy
To start, prepare all the ingredients by peeling and chopping the vegetables. The onion needs to be chopped, while the carrots should be sliced into manageable pieces, and the potatoes diced into cubes.
Next, place the beef chuck roast into the slow cooker. Pour in the beef broth, then add the chopped onions, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and diced potatoes. Next, sprinkle in the Worcestershire sauce and dried thyme, along with a dash of salt and pepper. Stir everything together to combine the ingredients evenly.
Once combined, cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Allow the dish to cook for about 8 hours. This slow cooking time lets the beef become fork-tender, soaking in all the flavors from the surrounding vegetables and herbs.
When the cooking time is up, carefully remove the beef from the crock and shred it using two forks. Add the shredded beef back into the slow cooker, stirring it into the delicious gravy and vegetables.
Serve the slow-cooked beef warm, garnished with fresh parsley for a touch of color and flavor. Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes or hearty crusty bread to soak up all that delicious gravy.
Pro Tips and Variations:
Here are some tips to enhance your slow-cooked beef with gravy:
- Beef Selection: While chuck roast is ideal, you can also use brisket or round roast for different flavor profiles.
- Vegetable Variations: Try adding other vegetables, such as parsnips or celery, to boost the nutrition and flavor.
- Herb Additions: Fresh herbs can elevate the dish—consider adding rosemary or bay leaves during cooking for enhanced aroma.
- Spice it Up: For a kick, add a touch of red pepper flakes, or substitute Worcestershire with soy sauce for a different flavor.
- Cooking Liquid: If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
These variations not only provide flexibility but also cater to different dietary preferences and tastes.
How to Serve Slow-Cooked Beef with Gravy
Serving slow-cooked beef with gravy is simple and can be tailored to your taste:
- With Mashed Potatoes: Serve it over creamy mashed potatoes so the gravy can soak in, creating a flavorful base.
- With Crusty Bread: Offer crusty bread on the side, perfect for sopping up the savory gravy.
- Accompanied by Vegetables: Complement the main dish with a fresh garden salad or steamed green beans for added nutrition.
- With Rice or Noodles: If you prefer grains, serving the beef and gravy over rice or egg noodles makes for a satisfying meal.
Don’t forget to garnish with chopped parsley for an added touch of freshness and color.
How to Store Slow-Cooked Beef with Gravy
Storing leftover slow-cooked beef with gravy properly can help maintain its flavor and texture.
- In the Refrigerator: Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- In the Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze your beef and gravy in portions. Use freezer-safe bags or containers, and it will keep well for up to 3 months.
When ready to reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, or in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to reclaim the moisture, ensuring that the beef remains tender and juicy.
Nutrition Information
While specific nutritional information can vary based on ingredient choices and portion sizes, slow-cooked beef with gravy generally provides a hearty balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates.
A typical serving may contain:
- Calories: Approximately 350-450
- Protein: 35-45 grams
- Total Fat: 15-20 grams
- Carbohydrates: 20-30 grams
- Fiber: 3-5 grams
This dish offers a good source of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables, alongside protein-rich beef, making it a satisfying and nourishing meal choice.
FAQs Slow-Cooked Beef with Gravy
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, while chuck roast is the best choice for tenderness and flavor, brisket or even round steak can work well.
Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! You can use the sauté function for browning the beef, then switch to pressure cooking for a faster result.
How long does it take to cook on high heat?
If you set your slow cooker to high heat, the beef will typically be ready in about 4-5 hours, but this may vary by appliance.
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with various vegetables like sweet potatoes, peas, or mushrooms to enhance the dish’s flavor and nutrition.
Conclusion
Slow-cooked beef with gravy is a beloved classic that brings comfort and warmth to the dinner table. With its rich flavor and ease of preparation, it’s a dish worthy of sharing with loved ones. Whether you enjoy it as a family meal or present it at gatherings, this recipe promises satisfaction in every bite. Try this slow-cooked beef with gravy and share your experience—it’s a recipe that may become a cherished favorite in your home just as it has in mine.
Slow-Cooked Beef with Gravy
Ingredients
Method
- Prepare all the ingredients by peeling and chopping the vegetables. Chop the onion, slice the carrots, and dice the potatoes.
- Place the beef chuck roast into the slow cooker. Pour in the beef broth, then add the chopped onions, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and diced potatoes.
- Sprinkle in the Worcestershire sauce and dried thyme, along with a dash of salt and pepper. Stir everything together to combine the ingredients evenly.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Allow the dish to cook for about 8 hours.
- Carefully remove the beef from the crock and shred it using two forks. Add the shredded beef back into the slow cooker, stirring it into the delicious gravy and vegetables.
- Serve the slow-cooked beef warm, garnished with fresh parsley for color and flavor. Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes or hearty crusty bread.