Indulge in the rich and smoky flavors of Slow Cooker Tennessee BBQ Beef Casserole, a hearty dish that combines tender chuck steak with savory BBQ seasoning, vegetables, and a touch of sweetness. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, instructions, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions of this comforting casserole.
Ingredients:
Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with the following ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs chuck steak
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 tsp minced garlic
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp beef stock
- 1 packet Tennessee Smokehouse BBQ rub
- Carrots, sliced
- Frozen peas
- Cornstarch (optional)
Instructions:
Follow these simple steps to create Slow Cooker Tennessee BBQ Beef Casserole:
- Prepare Ingredients: Cut the chuck steak into bite-sized pieces and chop the onion.
- Layer Ingredients: Place the chopped onion, diced tomatoes, minced garlic, tomato paste, bay leaves, brown sugar, beef stock, and Tennessee Smokehouse BBQ rub in the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
- Add Chuck Steak: Add the chopped chuck steak to the slow cooker and toss to coat it with the sauce mixture.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender and cooked through.
- Add Vegetables: In the last hour of cooking, add the sliced carrots and frozen peas to the slow cooker. Stir to combine and continue cooking until the vegetables are tender.
- Thicken Sauce (Optional): If desired, mix cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry and stir it into the casserole to thicken the sauce.
- Serve: Once the beef is cooked and the vegetables are tender, remove the bay leaves and serve the casserole hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
Here are some tips and variations to enhance your Slow Cooker Tennessee BBQ Beef Casserole:
- Beef Cut Variation: If chuck steak is not available, you can use stewing beef or beef brisket for equally delicious results.
- Vegetable Options: Feel free to customize the vegetable mix to your liking. You can add bell peppers, celery, or green beans for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Tennessee Smokehouse BBQ rub according to your spice preference. For a milder flavor, reduce the amount, or add more for a bolder taste.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, here’s how you can modify the recipe:
Keto Version:
- Carb-Conscious BBQ Rub: Look for a BBQ rub with low sugar content or make your own keto-friendly seasoning blend using spices like paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder.
- Low-Carb Thickener: Instead of cornstarch, use xanthan gum or glucomannan powder as a low-carb thickener to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
Low-Carb Version:
- Carb-Friendly Vegetables: Choose low-carb vegetables like zucchini, cauliflower, or broccoli instead of carrots and peas to reduce the overall carb content of the casserole.
- Sugar-Free BBQ Sauce: Opt for a sugar-free or reduced-sugar BBQ sauce to keep the carb count low while still enjoying the smoky flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Let’s address some common questions about making Slow Cooker Tennessee BBQ Beef Casserole:
Q: Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use other cuts such as stewing beef or beef brisket. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the cut you choose.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers of this casserole? A: Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: Is there a substitute for Tennessee Smokehouse BBQ rub? A: You can use your favorite BBQ seasoning blend or make a homemade rub using a combination of spices like smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
Slow Cooker Tennessee BBQ Beef Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings with friends. With its tender beef, smoky BBQ flavor, and hearty vegetables, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Plus, with keto and low-carb options available, it’s a versatile dish that can accommodate various dietary preferences. So fire up your slow cooker and prepare to enjoy a delicious meal that’s sure to satisfy your cravings!
