Crock-Pot Beef
A hearty slow-cooked beef dish with tender meat, flavorful vegetables, and savory sauces, perfect for comforting family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the beef into pieces and brown them in a skillet.
- Slice the onion; dice the carrots and celery.
- Slice the green bell pepper into thin strips.
- Place the sliced onion, carrots, celery, and bell pepper into the bottom of the crock-pot.
- Sprinkle the beef pieces with pepper, minced garlic, and onion soup mix.
- In a small bowl, mix the steak sauce, Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 cup water, and 1/2 cup tomato juice.
- Pour this mixture over the meat and vegetables in the crock-pot.
- Cook on low heat for 7 to 9 hours.
- Remove the meat and vegetables when done and thicken the sauce with a cornstarch or flour mixture.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the beef overnight in Worcestershire sauce and garlic. If you prefer a thicker sauce, add a cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking. Feel free to substitute the vegetables based on what you have; parsnips or potatoes work well. For a different flavor profile, try using a dry spice rub on the beef before browning, similar to the technique used in Beef With Dry Spice Rub.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Crock-Pot Beef over a bed of rice or creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread to soak up the sauce. For a lighter option, serve with a fresh garden salad or steamed green beans. This dish is also a great centerpiece for gatherings, complementing dishes like the Block Party Bean Bake.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the beef and vegetables in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave, covered, for a few minutes until warmed through. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crock-Pot Beef contains roughly 374 calories, with 10g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (117% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (61% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 738mg per serving (32% of the Daily Value).
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 cut of beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other cuts such as chuck roast or brisket. Just ensure they are well-marbled for the best flavor and tenderness. Adjust cooking times accordingly, as leaner cuts may require less time in the crock-pot to avoid drying out.
What can I serve with Crock-Pot Beef?
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, including buttery mashed potatoes, rice, or even egg noodles. You might also consider serving it with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
How do I know when the beef is done cooking?
The beef is done when it is fork-tender and easily pulls apart. Cooking times can vary based on the size of the beef pieces and the specific crock-pot, but typically it should take about 7 to 9 hours on low.
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).