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How To Cook Beef In Slow Cooker With Gravy

Learn how to cook tender and flavourful beef in a slow cooker with delicious gravy, perfect for a comforting and easy meal.

Slow cookers are an amazing kitchen appliance that can make cooking easier and more convenient. If you’re a fan of tender and juicy beef, then using a slow cooker is a great way to achieve that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture. In this article, we will show you how to cook beef in a slow cooker with a rich and flavorful gravy.

Using a slow cooker is perfect for those busy days when you want a delicious home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The low and slow cooking method allows the beef to slowly tenderize and develop deep flavors. Plus, the added bonus of having a flavorful gravy to accompany your beef makes this recipe even more irresistible.

When it comes to choosing the right cut of beef for slow cooking, you want to opt for tougher cuts that have more connective tissue. These cuts, such as chuck roast or brisket, are perfect for slow cooking as the long cooking time breaks down the collagen, resulting in tender and succulent beef. The slow cooker does all the work for you, so you can enjoy a delicious and hassle-free meal.

How to Cook Beef in Slow Cooker with Gravy

Cooking beef in a slow cooker with gravy can result in tender and flavorful meat that is perfect for a hearty meal. Here are the steps to achieve this delicious dish:

  1. Start by selecting a cut of beef that is suitable for slow cooking, such as chuck or brisket. These cuts are more affordable and have enough fat content to keep the meat moist during the long cooking process.
  2. Season the beef with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. This will add flavor to the meat as it cooks.
  3. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil. Sear the beef on all sides until browned. This step helps to lock in the flavors and create a caramelized crust on the meat.
  4. Transfer the beef to a slow cooker and add onions, garlic, and any other vegetables or herbs of your choice. These ingredients will enhance the flavor of the dish and add depth to the gravy.
  5. In a separate bowl, mix together beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and flour to create the gravy. Pour this mixture over the beef and vegetables in the slow cooker.
  6. Set your slow cooker to low heat and let the beef cook for 8-10 hours. This slow and low cooking method will result in tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat.
  7. Once the cooking time is complete, remove the beef from the slow cooker and tent it with aluminum foil. This allows the meat to rest and retain its juices.
  8. Strain the liquid from the slow cooker to separate the gravy from the vegetables and aromatics. You can thicken the gravy further by simmering it on the stovetop and adding cornstarch slurry if desired.
  9. Slice the beef against the grain and serve with the thickened gravy and your choice of side dishes, such as mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.

With these steps, you can easily cook beef in a slow cooker with gravy that is tender, flavorful, and perfect for a comforting meal. Enjoy!

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Hamilton Beach 8 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Three Temperature Settings, Dishwasher Safe Crock and Lid, Silver (33480)
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Choosing the Right Cut of Beef

When it comes to cooking beef in a slow cooker with gravy, choosing the right cut of meat is crucial. The right cut will ensure that your beef is tender, juicy, and full of flavor.

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Here are some of the best cuts of beef to use:

  • Chuck Roast: This is a popular choice for slow cooking as it has a good amount of marbling, which adds flavor and tenderness to the meat.
  • Brisket: Known for its rich flavor, brisket is perfect for slow cooking. It can be a bit tough, but with the low and slow cooking method, it becomes incredibly tender.
  • Round Roast: This cut comes from the hindquarters of the cow and is leaner than chuck roast or brisket. It’s a great choice if you prefer a leaner cut of meat.
  • Short Ribs: If you’re looking for a cut that is fall-off-the-bone tender, short ribs are a fantastic option. They have a good amount of fat, which helps keep the meat moist during the slow cooking process.

When selecting your beef, look for cuts that are well-marbled with fat. This fat will melt during the long cooking process, resulting in a tender and flavorful end product. Additionally, choose beef that is well-trimmed and free from excessive connective tissue, as these can make the meat tough.

Remember, the quality of the beef will directly impact the final dish, so don’t be afraid to splurge a bit on a higher-quality cut. Your taste buds will thank you!

Preparing the Beef for Slow Cooking

Before you start cooking the beef in your slow cooker, it’s important to properly prepare it. This will help enhance the flavor and ensure that the meat is tender and succulent.

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Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker, Extra Large 10 Quart, Stay or Go Portable With Lid Lock, Dishwasher Safe Crock, Black (33195)
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Amazon price updated: December 18, 2024 11:43 pm

First, choose a cut of beef that is suitable for slow cooking. Popular options include chuck roast, brisket, and round roast. These cuts of meat have a good amount of marbling, which will keep the beef moist during the long cooking process.

Next, trim any excess fat from the beef. While a little fat adds flavor, too much can make the final dish greasy. Use a sharp knife to carefully remove any thick pieces of fat from the meat.

After trimming the fat, season the beef with salt and pepper. This will add a layer of flavor to the meat as it cooks. You can also add additional spices and herbs, such as garlic powder, thyme, or rosemary, depending on your preference.

For an extra boost of flavor, consider searing the beef before placing it in the slow cooker. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef on all sides until it develops a golden brown crust. This will help lock in the juices and enhance the overall taste of the meat.

Once the beef is prepared, place it in the slow cooker and pour your desired amount of gravy or sauce over it. If you don’t have a pre-made sauce, you can make a simple and delicious gravy using beef broth, flour, and seasonings.

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Finally, cover the slow cooker with its lid and set the desired cooking time and temperature. Slow cookers typically take several hours to cook beef, depending on the size and cut of the meat. Cook the beef on low heat for tender, melt-in-your-mouth results.

Overall, preparing the beef properly before slow cooking is essential for achieving a delicious and satisfying meal. Take the time to select a good cut of beef, trim any excess fat, season it well, and consider searing it for extra flavor. These steps will ensure that your beef turns out tender, juicy, and full of flavor.

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Cooking the Beef in the Slow Cooker

Using a slow cooker to cook beef is a convenient and easy way to achieve tender and flavorful results. Whether you are cooking a pot roast, a beef stew, or any other beef dish, the slow cooker allows for low and slow cooking, ensuring that the meat becomes perfectly tender and juicy.

Here are the steps to cook beef in the slow cooker:

1. Choose the Right Cut of Beef: For slow cooking, it is best to choose tougher cuts of beef, such as chuck roast, brisket, or stewing beef. These cuts benefit from the long cooking time and become incredibly tender.

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2. Prepare the Beef: Before adding the beef to the slow cooker, season it with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices or herbs. This will enhance the flavor of the meat as it cooks.

3. Sear the Beef: While it is not necessary, searing the beef before adding it to the slow cooker can add another layer of depth and flavor to the dish. Heat some oil in a skillet and brown the beef on all sides. This process will develop a delicious crust and enhance the overall taste of the dish.

4. Add the Beef and Liquid: Place the beef in the slow cooker and pour in enough liquid to cover about half of the meat. This can be beef broth, red wine, tomato sauce, or a combination of liquids. The liquid helps to keep the beef moist and creates a flavorful sauce or gravy.

5. Cook on Low: Set the slow cooker on the low setting and let the beef cook for several hours. The exact cooking time will depend on the recipe and the size of the beef, but generally, it will take around 6-8 hours for the beef to become tender and fully cooked.

6. Add Vegetables: If your recipe calls for vegetables, add them to the slow cooker during the last hour or two of cooking. This will ensure that they become tender but not overcooked.

7. Thicken the Gravy: Once the beef is cooked, you can thicken the gravy or sauce if desired. Remove the beef from the slow cooker and strain the liquid into a saucepan. Mix some cornstarch or flour with cold water to create a slurry and slowly whisk it into the liquid. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring continuously, until it thickens to your desired consistency.

8. Serve and Enjoy: Slice the beef against the grain and serve it with the thickened gravy or sauce. The slow cooker beef will be incredibly tender and full of flavor, making it a delicious and satisfying meal.

Using a slow cooker to cook beef is a foolproof way to achieve succulent and flavorful results. The long cooking time allows for the flavors to develop and the meat to become incredibly tender. Follow these steps, and you will have a delicious beef dish that will impress your family and guests.

Serving the Beef with Gravy

Once the beef is cooked to perfection in the slow cooker, it’s time to serve it with a delicious gravy. Follow these steps to create a mouthwatering dish:

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1. Prepare the Gravy

First, remove the beef from the slow cooker and set it aside. Strain the remaining liquid in the slow cooker through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any excess fat or large pieces. This will leave you with a rich and flavorful gravy base.

In a saucepan, melt a knob of butter over medium heat. Add in a couple of tablespoons of plain flour, stirring constantly until the mixture turns golden brown. This creates a roux, which will thicken the gravy.

Gradually whisk in the strained liquid from the slow cooker, taking care to incorporate it well to avoid any lumps. Continue whisking until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. Season with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices.

2. Slice and Plate the Beef

While the gravy is cooking, use a sharp knife to thinly slice the cooked beef. Take care to slice against the grain to ensure tenderness. Arrange the slices neatly on a serving platter or individual plates.

If desired, you can spoon a small amount of the prepared gravy over the sliced beef to enhance the flavors even further.

3. Serve and Enjoy

Pour the remainder of the gravy into a gravy boat or small pitcher for guests to help themselves. Place it alongside the sliced beef on the table.

Serve the beef and gravy alongside your favorite side dishes such as creamy mashed potatoes, buttery roasted vegetables, or fluffy Yorkshire puddings. The tender beef, combined with the rich and flavorful gravy, will be an instant crowd-pleaser.

Enjoy your slow-cooked beef with gravy feast!

Questions and answers

What is the best cut of beef to use in a slow cooker?

The best cut of beef to use in a slow cooker is a tougher cut such as chuck roast or brisket. These cuts benefit from the low and slow cooking method, resulting in tender and flavorful meat.

Can I cook beef in a slow cooker without adding liquid?

No, it is not recommended to cook beef in a slow cooker without adding liquid. The liquid helps to keep the meat moist and tender during the long cooking process. You can use broth, stock, or even water as a cooking liquid.

How long does it take to cook beef in a slow cooker?

The cooking time for beef in a slow cooker depends on the size and cut of the meat, as well as the desired level of doneness. Generally, beef cooked in a slow cooker on low heat will take 6 to 8 hours, while cooking on high heat will take 3 to 4 hours.

Can I make gravy with the drippings from the slow cooker?

Yes, you can make gravy with the drippings from the slow cooker. To make the gravy, remove the cooked beef from the slow cooker and set it aside. Skim off the excess fat from the drippings, then pour the drippings into a saucepan. Heat the drippings over medium heat and whisk in a mixture of flour and water or broth until the desired thickness is reached. Season with salt, pepper, and any additional herbs or spices.

Olivia Carter
Olivia Carter

Olivia Carter is a passionate home cook and kitchen tech enthusiast with over 10 years of experience experimenting with innovative appliances and culinary techniques. She loves exploring how technology can simplify cooking while enhancing creativity in the kitchen. Olivia combines her love for food and gadgets to provide practical advice, honest reviews, and inspiring ideas for home cooks of all levels. When she’s not testing the latest kitchen tools, Olivia enjoys hosting dinner parties, developing recipes, and sharing her culinary adventures with the Tech for Cooking community. Her approachable style and expertise make her a trusted voice in the world of modern cooking.

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