Buffet Beef
Buffet Beef is a tender, flavorful dish with savory gravy and a hint of sweetness from ginger ale, perfect for family dinners or potlucks. It pairs well with noodles.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Shake beef cubes with flour in a paper bag until coated.
- Combine dry onion soup mix, brown gravy mix, and ginger ale in a crock-pot, and mix well.
- Add the coated beef cubes and remaining flour to the crock-pot, and mix well.
- Cook on low for 8 to 10 hours.
- Serve over hot, cooked noodles.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider marinating the beef cubes in ginger ale overnight. If you don't have ginger ale, you can substitute with a mix of club soda and a splash of ginger syrup. To thicken the gravy, add a cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking. This dish is versatile; you can also use it in other beef recipes like Beef Dressing Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the buffet beef over hot, cooked noodles for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside mashed potatoes or rice, which can soak up the delicious gravy. This dish also works well for casual gatherings or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover buffet beef can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Buffet Beef contains roughly 23 calories, with 1g protein, 3g 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 a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute beef with other meats like pork or chicken, but be mindful of the cooking times as they may vary. Chicken will typically require less time, around 6 to 8 hours on low, while pork can cook similarly to beef.
What can I do if the gravy is too thin?
If you find the gravy too thin after cooking, you can thicken it by mixing 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the crock-pot and cook on high for an additional 15-30 minutes until thickened.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef and flour mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator, then simply combine it with the other ingredients in the crock-pot the next day. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.
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).