Saucy Beef

Prep: 10 min Cook: 20 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

Savory and hearty, Saucy Beef features tender stew meat simmered in a flavorful jelly and gravy sauce with vegetables. Perfect for a comforting family dinner, this dish pairs well with rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal with a hint of tangy sweetness.

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Ingredients

  • 1 c. water
  • 3 Tbsp. currant jelly
  • 2 Tbsp. lemon juice
  • 1 pkg. frozen vegetables
  • 1 pkg. instant gravy mix
  • 1 lb. stew meat

Instructions

  1. Brown stew beef cubes with chopped onions in a pot.
  2. Add water, currant jelly, lemon juice, frozen vegetables, and instant gravy mix.
  3. Heat the mixture to boiling.
  4. Reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes.
  5. Serve hot with rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic and herbs such as thyme or rosemary to the stew as it simmers. If currant jelly is unavailable, cranberry sauce makes a suitable substitute. You can also use fresh vegetables instead of frozen to enhance the dish's freshness. If you prefer a thicker sauce, add a cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking.

Serving Suggestions

This Saucy Beef dish is perfect served over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes. For a complete meal, pair it with a fresh side salad dressed with Thousand Isle Dressing or steamed green beans. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside homemade bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until heated through, stirring halfway for even warming.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Saucy Beef contains roughly 31 calories, with 2g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (39% of the Daily Value).

31 kcal 2% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.6g 3% DV
Total Fat 0.2g
Carbs 6g 2% DV
Fiber 1.8g 6% DV
Sugar 1.6g 3% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 132.8mg 6% DV
Potassium 183mg 4% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 349.8mcg 39% DV
Vitamin C 3mg 3% DV
Calcium 28.1mg 2% DV
Iron 0.6mg 4% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal Low-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 the stew meat with chicken thighs or pork, adjusting the cooking time as necessary. For a vegetarian option, try using hearty vegetables or tofu, though the cooking time will vary.

Is it possible to make this dish in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Simply brown the beef first, then transfer it to a slow cooker with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours for tender meat and flavorful sauce.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this Saucy Beef gluten-free, ensure the instant gravy mix is certified gluten-free. You can also thicken the sauce with cornstarch instead of flour, keeping the dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

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).

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