Beef and gravy is a classic comfort food dish that never goes out of style. The rich, meaty flavor of the beef paired with the savory, slightly thickened gravy is a match made in heaven. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make in a slow cooker. In this article, we’ll show you how to make delicious slow cooker beef and gravy that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or even a holiday meal.
Choosing the Right Cut of Beef
When it comes to making slow cooker beef and gravy, the type of beef you use is crucial. You want a cut that’s tough enough to hold up to long, slow cooking, but tender enough to be easily shredded or sliced. Here are a few options to consider:
Chuck Roast
A chuck roast is a classic choice for slow cooker beef and gravy. It’s a tougher cut of beef that’s packed with connective tissue, which breaks down beautifully during the cooking process. Look for a roast that’s at least 2 pounds, and preferably 3-4 pounds.
Round Roast
A round roast is another great option for slow cooker beef and gravy. It’s a leaner cut of beef than a chuck roast, but still has plenty of flavor and texture. Look for a roast that’s at least 2 pounds, and preferably 3-4 pounds.
Brisket
A brisket is a great choice for slow cooker beef and gravy, especially if you’re looking for a more tender final product. It’s a tougher cut of beef that’s packed with connective tissue, which breaks down beautifully during the cooking process. Look for a brisket that’s at least 2 pounds, and preferably 3-4 pounds.
Preparing the Beef and Gravy
Once you’ve chosen your cut of beef, it’s time to start preparing it for the slow cooker. Here’s what you’ll need to do:
Seasoning the Beef
Before you add the beef to the slow cooker, you’ll want to season it with a blend of spices and herbs. Here’s a simple seasoning blend you can use:
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Rub the seasoning blend all over the beef, making sure to coat it evenly.
Searing the Beef
Searing the beef before adding it to the slow cooker is a crucial step. It helps to create a rich, caramelized crust on the beef that adds depth and flavor to the final dish. Here’s how to sear the beef:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add 2 tablespoons of oil to the skillet, and swirl it around to coat the bottom.
- Add the beef to the skillet, and sear it for 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Remove the beef from the skillet, and set it aside.
Preparing the Gravy
While the beef is searing, you can start preparing the gravy. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups of beef broth
- 1 cup of red wine (optional)
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons of butter
Whisk the flour and butter together in a small bowl until they form a smooth paste. This is called a roux, and it’s used to thicken the gravy.
Cooking the Beef and Gravy
Now that the beef and gravy are prepared, it’s time to add them to the slow cooker. Here’s what you’ll need to do:
Adding the Beef and Gravy to the Slow Cooker
Add the seared beef to the slow cooker, and pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using). Whisk the roux into the liquid, and make sure it’s fully incorporated.
Cooking the Beef and Gravy
Cook the beef and gravy on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-6 hours. You can cook it for a shorter amount of time if you prefer your beef more rare, but keep in mind that it may not be as tender.
Shredding the Beef
Once the beef is cooked, use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker, and stir it into the gravy.
Serving the Beef and Gravy
The beef and gravy are now ready to serve. Here are a few ways you can serve it:
Over Mashed Potatoes
Serve the beef and gravy over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes. This is a classic comfort food combination that’s sure to please.
Over Egg Noodles
Serve the beef and gravy over a bed of egg noodles. This is a hearty, satisfying combination that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
On a Sandwich
Serve the beef and gravy on a sandwich, topped with your favorite toppings. This is a great way to enjoy the beef and gravy on the go.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to keep in mind when making slow cooker beef and gravy:
Using a Different Cut of Beef
Feel free to experiment with different cuts of beef, such as a sirloin roast or a ribeye roast. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the cut of beef you use.
Adding Vegetables
Add some diced vegetables, such as carrots, potatoes, and onions, to the slow cooker with the beef and gravy. This will add extra flavor and nutrition to the dish.
Using a Different Type of Gravy
Experiment with different types of gravy, such as a mushroom gravy or a red wine gravy. This will add extra depth and flavor to the dish.
Conclusion
Slow cooker beef and gravy is a delicious, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. By following the tips and techniques outlined in this article, you can create a rich, flavorful beef and gravy that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. So why not give it a try? Your taste buds will thank you.
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Beef (chuck roast or round roast) | 2-4 pounds |
| Beef broth | 2 cups |
| Red wine (optional) | 1 cup |
| All-purpose flour | 2 tablespoons |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Chili powder | 2 tablespoons |
| Ground cumin | 1 tablespoon |
| Paprika | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Onion powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
- Season the beef with a blend of spices and herbs.
- Sear the beef in a hot skillet to create a rich, caramelized crust.
Note: The ingredients and instructions listed above are for a basic slow cooker beef and gravy recipe. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and variations to create your own unique recipe.
What is the best cut of beef to use for slow cooker beef and gravy?
The best cut of beef to use for slow cooker beef and gravy is a tougher cut that becomes tender with slow cooking, such as chuck roast, round roast, or rump roast. These cuts have a lot of connective tissue that breaks down during the cooking process, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish.
When selecting a cut of beef, look for one that is at least 2-3 pounds in size. This will ensure that you have enough meat for a hearty meal, and that the meat will be tender and fall-apart after several hours of cooking. You can also use a combination of different cuts, such as chuck and round, for added flavor and texture.
How do I prepare the beef for slow cooking?
To prepare the beef for slow cooking, start by seasoning the meat with your desired spices and herbs. You can use a store-bought seasoning blend or create your own using salt, pepper, and other spices. Next, heat a couple of tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the beef on all sides until it is browned. This step is called browning, and it adds a rich, caramelized flavor to the dish.
After browning the beef, transfer it to the slow cooker and add your desired aromatics, such as onions, carrots, and celery. You can also add some liquid, such as beef broth or red wine, to the slow cooker to help keep the meat moist and add flavor. Finally, cover the slow cooker and cook the beef on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours.
What is the role of gravy in slow cooker beef and gravy?
The gravy plays a crucial role in slow cooker beef and gravy, as it adds moisture, flavor, and richness to the dish. The gravy is typically made by deglazing the slow cooker with a little bit of liquid, such as beef broth or red wine, and then whisking in some flour or cornstarch to thicken the mixture.
The gravy helps to keep the meat moist and tender, and it also adds a rich, savory flavor to the dish. You can serve the gravy over the beef, or use it as a dipping sauce. Some people also like to serve the gravy over mashed potatoes or egg noodles, which helps to soak up all the flavorful sauce.
Can I make slow cooker beef and gravy in advance?
Yes, you can make slow cooker beef and gravy in advance. In fact, this dish is perfect for meal prep or for special occasions when you need to feed a crowd. You can cook the beef and gravy a day or two in advance and then refrigerate or freeze it until you’re ready to serve.
To reheat the dish, simply transfer it to the slow cooker and cook it on low for a few hours until the meat is hot and the gravy is bubbly. You can also reheat the dish in the oven or on the stovetop, but be careful not to overcook the meat.
How do I serve slow cooker beef and gravy?
Slow cooker beef and gravy is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. You can serve it over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice, or use it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. Some people also like to serve the beef and gravy with some roasted vegetables, such as carrots or Brussels sprouts.
When serving the dish, be sure to spoon some of the rich, savory gravy over the top of the meat. You can also garnish with some fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, for added flavor and color.
Can I make slow cooker beef and gravy in a different type of cooker?
While slow cooker beef and gravy is typically made in a slow cooker, you can also make it in other types of cookers, such as a Dutch oven or a Instant Pot. To make the dish in a Dutch oven, simply brown the beef and cook the vegetables in the pot, and then cover it and transfer it to the oven to cook.
To make the dish in an Instant Pot, brown the beef and cook the vegetables in the pot, and then add some liquid and cook the dish on high pressure for 30-60 minutes. The Instant Pot is a great option if you’re short on time, as it can cook the dish much faster than a slow cooker.
Is slow cooker beef and gravy a healthy meal option?
Slow cooker beef and gravy can be a healthy meal option, depending on the ingredients you use. The beef is a good source of protein, and the vegetables add fiber and nutrients. However, the dish can be high in fat and calories, especially if you use a lot of oil or add a lot of gravy.
To make the dish healthier, try using leaner cuts of beef and reducing the amount of oil you use. You can also add more vegetables, such as carrots and celery, to increase the nutrient content of the dish. Finally, be mindful of the amount of gravy you serve, as it can be high in calories and fat.