Slow Cooker Beef in Onion Gravy

Embrace the comforting aromas and flavors of home-cooked goodness with our Slow Cooker Beef in Onion Gravy recipe. This hearty and satisfying dish is the epitome of comfort food, featuring tender beef simmered in a rich and savory onion gravy. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays, this recipe requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Let your slow cooker do the work as you enjoy the mouthwatering anticipation of a delicious meal waiting for you at the end of the day. Get ready to elevate your dinner game with this classic and comforting recipe that will warm your soul with every bite.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds beef stew meat, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 packet dry onion soup mix (about 1 ounce)
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) of condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for thickening)
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef: Place the beef stew meat in the slow cooker.
2. Add Soup Mix: Sprinkle the dry onion soup mix over the beef in the slow cooker.
3. Add Condensed Soup: Pour the condensed cream of mushroom soup over the beef and soup mix in the slow cooker.
4. Thicken the Gravy: In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and water until smooth. Pour the flour mixture into the slow cooker, stirring to combine with the beef and soup mixture.
5. Add Worcestershire Sauce: Drizzle Worcestershire sauce over the beef mixture in the slow cooker.
6. Season with Pepper: Season with freshly ground black pepper, to taste.
7. Cook Low and Slow: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the beef is tender and the gravy is thick and flavorful.
8. Serve: Once cooked, serve the beef in onion gravy hot, spooned over mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dish. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, for a pop of color and flavor.

Cook Notes and Variations

• Vegetable Additions: For added flavor and nutrition, consider adding diced carrots, celery, or potatoes to the slow cooker along with the beef. These vegetables will cook alongside the beef, soaking up the delicious flavors of the onion gravy.
• Fresh Herbs: Enhance the flavor of the dish by adding fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary to the slow cooker before cooking. These aromatic herbs will infuse the beef and gravy with additional depth and complexity.
• Creamy Texture: For a creamier gravy, stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream just before serving. This will add richness and velvety texture to the dish.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

• Keto-Friendly Option: To make this recipe keto-friendly, omit the all-purpose flour and condensed cream of mushroom soup, which contain carbs. Instead, use a keto-friendly thickener such as xanthan gum or almond flour. You can also replace the condensed cream of mushroom soup with a homemade keto-friendly cream sauce made from heavy cream, butter, and seasonings.
• Low-Carb Variation: For a lower-carb version, reduce the amount of all-purpose flour used for thickening or omit it entirely. You can also opt for a low-carb condensed cream of mushroom soup or make your own low-carb cream sauce using alternative ingredients such as coconut milk or almond milk.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe? While beef stew meat is ideal for its tenderness and flavor, you can also use other cuts of beef such as chuck roast or bottom round roast. Just be sure to trim any excess fat before cooking.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, this dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before cooking. Simply combine the ingredients in the slow cooker as instructed, cover, and refrigerate until ready to cook.
3. Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, leftover beef in onion gravy can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then gently warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
4. What side dishes pair well with Slow Cooker Beef in Onion Gravy? This dish pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles to soak up the rich and flavorful gravy. Steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad also make excellent accompaniments for a balanced meal.
5. Can I add wine to the gravy for extra flavor? Yes, you can enhance the flavor of the gravy by deglazing the slow cooker with a splash of red wine or beef broth before serving. This will add depth and complexity to the dish, elevating it to new heights of deliciousness.

In conclusion, our Slow Cooker Beef in Onion Gravy recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple and comforting home cooking. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a flavorful and satisfying meal that will warm your heart and soul. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening with loved ones or as a convenient weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. So, dust off your slow cooker and get ready to savor the rich and savory flavors of tender beef in a luscious onion gravy. Your taste buds will thank you!