1-2-3 Crock-Pot Dinner
A hearty, easy-to-make slow cooker beef stew with savory mushroom soup and tender onions, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Set the crock-pot on low at 9 to 10 a.m. to prepare for dinner at 6 to 7 p.m.
- Drop the bite-sized beef chunks into the crock-pot.
- Chop the white onion and add it to the beef in the crock-pot.
- Mix the mushroom soup and water, then pour and stir the mixture into the crock-pot with the beef and onion.
- Let cook on low for 6 to 9 hours.
- Serve the stew with rice or mashed potatoes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the beef chunks in a skillet before adding them to the crock-pot. You can substitute the lean beef with chicken or turkey for a lighter version. If you don't have mushroom soup, cream of chicken or vegetable soup can work as a substitute. Adding garlic or herbs like thyme can enhance the overall taste.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty stew pairs beautifully with rice or mashed potatoes, providing a comforting and filling meal. For added texture, consider serving it with crusty bread or a side salad. You can also browse more American recipes for complementary dishes to create a full dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the stew cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out and warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 1-2-3 Crock-Pot Dinner contains roughly 40 calories, with 3g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen beef chunks for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen beef chunks, but it's recommended to thaw them first for even cooking. If you add them frozen, you may need to extend the cooking time by an hour or so to ensure they are cooked through.
What can I add to the stew for extra vegetables?
You can add a variety of vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, or green beans. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them to the crock-pot along with the beef and onion for a more balanced meal.
How do I know when the stew is done cooking?
The stew is done when the beef is tender and easily shreds with a fork. This typically takes 6 to 9 hours on low heat. If you're unsure, check the internal temperature of the beef; it should reach at least 145°F.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).