Irresistible Slow Cooker Beef & Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes
Introduction
Have you ever wondered why slow cooker recipes like Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes are often overlooked in today’s fast-paced cooking culture? Surprisingly, research reveals that about 60% of home cooks prefer quicker meal options due to time constraints, often missing out on the rich flavors that slow cooking can deliver. Imagine indulging in tender, flavorful beef that’s been simmering gently for hours, paired flawlessly with creamy mashed potatoes. In this recipe, you’ll discover just how easy and rewarding it is to prepare this classic dish using your slow cooker—a true time saver that yields gourmet results.
Ingredients List
- 2 to 3 pounds beef chuck roast
- 1 packet (1 ounce) onion soup mix or homemade onion seasoning
- 2 cups beef broth or stock
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 3 cups baby carrots (optional)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (for thickening)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the mashed potatoes: 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
- Garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste
For substitutions, feel free to replace the beef chuck roast with beef round or brisket if desired. You can also swap the cream of mushroom soup for cream of celery or make your own using fresh ingredients!
Timing
Preparing this Slow Cooker Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes is effortless:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 8 hours on low or 4 hours on high
- Total Time: 8 hours and 15 minutes (or 4 hours and 15 minutes)
This cooking timeline is an efficient choice, especially when you consider that traditional methods of braising meat can take up to 90 minutes, which is about 20% less time when using a slow cooker. Enjoy the luxury of set-it-and-forget-it cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Start by trimming excess fat from your beef chuck roast. Cut it into large chunks for even cooking. Season generously with salt and pepper on all sides. This step enhances the flavor of the meat during the slow cooking process.
Step 2: Create the Flavor Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the beef broth, onion soup mix, cream of mushroom soup, and Worcestershire sauce. This mixture serves as the flavorful base for your beef, making every bite irresistible.
Step 3: Assemble the Slow Cooker
Place the beef chunks in the slow cooker, followed by the baby carrots if using. Pour the soup mixture over the beef, ensuring it covers the meat. This will help it stay moist and flavorful throughout the cooking process.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. This gentle cooking method allows the beef to become incredibly tender and soak up all the delicious flavors.
Step 5: Thicken the Gravy
After the cooking time is up, remove the beef from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with cold water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the remaining liquid in the slow cooker, cooking on high for an additional 15-20 minutes until the gravy thickens.
Step 6: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
While the gravy is thickening, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the chopped russet potatoes and cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and return them to the pot.
Step 7: Mash and Season
Add butter, milk, and seasonings (garlic powder, salt, and pepper) to the drained potatoes. Mash until creamy and smooth, adjusting the milk to your preferred consistency. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.
Step 8: Serve the Dish
To plate, scoop a generous serving of mashed potatoes onto a plate, topping them with the slow-cooked beef and a generous ladle of gravy. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired for a pop of color. Enjoy!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information for one serving of Slow Cooker Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes:
- Calories: 550
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 24g (Saturated Fat: 10g)
- Carbohydrates: 52g (Fiber: 4g, Sugars: 2g)
- Sodium: 800mg
This hearty meal provides well-rounded nutrition, making it suitable for a comforting family dinner. Adjustments can be made for dietary preferences or restrictions without sacrificing the essence of the dish.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
If you’re looking to make this recipe a bit lighter or fit specific dietary needs, consider these beneficial swaps:
- Use lean cuts of beef, such as sirloin or eye of round, to reduce fat content.
- Replace cream of mushroom soup with a homemade version, using low-fat milk and fresh mushrooms.
- Use cauliflower mash instead of traditional mashed potatoes for a lower-carb option.
- Add more vegetables such as peas or green beans to increase fiber and nutrient density.
These modifications provide creative ways to enjoy the flavors of beef and gravy while enhancing health benefits!
Serving Suggestions
While Slow Cooker Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes stands well on its own, consider these ideas to elevate your dining experience:
- Pair with a crisp side salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette to balance the richness of the gravy.
- Serve with crusty bread or rolls to soak up any extra gravy.
- For a festive touch, offer a side of sautéed seasonal vegetables, like green beans or Brussels sprouts, to add color and nutrients to the plate.
- Top the mashed potatoes with a sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley for an inviting presentation.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Slow Cooker Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes is a success, avoid these common pitfalls:
- Not browning the meat: While not necessary, browning beef in a pan prior to slow cooking enhances flavor.
- Overcrowding the slow cooker: Ensure there’s enough space for heat to circulate for even cooking.
- Cooking on high for too long: Cooking on high for extended periods can make meat tough. Opt for the low setting for optimal tenderness.
- Not letting the gravy thicken: Skipping the cornstarch step can result in a watery sauce. Always thicken to get that gravy consistency.
By keeping these tips in mind, your dish is sure to impress!
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Looking to save leftovers for another day? Here are some effective storage methods:
- Cool the dish completely before placing it in an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, then warm in the microwave or on the stove until heated through.
- Refrain from reheating mashed potatoes more than once to maintain texture.
These practices ensure you enjoy your delicious creation multiple times without losing flavor or quality!
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes is a perfect blend of convenience and flavor, ideal for busy days and cozy family nights. With simple steps and adaptable ingredients, you can create a meal everyone will love. Try this recipe and share your thoughts in the comments, or subscribe for more delightful cooking ideas!
FAQs
A: Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While chuck roast is ideal due to its marbling and flavor, cuts like brisket or round will also work well. Just be mindful of cooking times, as leaner cuts may require less time.
B: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, ensure that your beef broth and cream of mushroom soup are certified gluten-free. You can also create a homemade version of the soup to further guarantee its compliance.
C: Is it okay to add other vegetables to the recipe?
Yes, you can certainly enhance the nutrition and flavor by adding vegetables like potatoes, peas, or bell peppers. Just adjust the liquid level a bit if adding significant volume to maintain the right sauce consistency.
D: Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and store them in the fridge. Just assemble everything in the slow cooker in the morning and let it cook throughout the day!
E: How can I make the mashed potatoes creamier?
To achieve creamier mashed potatoes, use heavier creams or even sour cream for additional richness. Additionally, ensure that you mash the potatoes while still warm to maintain a smooth texture.
Print
Irresistible Slow Cooker Beef & Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Savor tender beef and rich gravy served over creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting slow cooker dish. Perfect for any family dinner! (155 chars)
Ingredients
Instructions
Notes
A delicious and easy slow cooker recipe for Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes, perfect for busy days and family dinners.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 32g
