Slow Cooker Cubed Beef with Onions

Equipment

• Slow cooker (6-quart recommended)
• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs

Ingredients

For the Beef

• 2½ pounds (1.1 kg) cubed beef stew meat or chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 large yellow onions, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)

Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf

Optional Vegetables

• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced

Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Fresh thyme
• Cracked black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Season the Beef

1. Pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels.
2. Season with:
3. Salt
4. Pepper
5. Paprika
6. Garlic powder
7. Onion powder
8. Lightly coat the beef with the flour.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the beef in batches for 2–3 minutes per side.
3. Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker.

Step 3: Cook the Onions

1. In the same skillet, add the sliced onions.
2. Cook for about 8–10 minutes until softened and lightly caramelized.
3. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Transfer everything to the slow cooker.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

1. Whisk together:
2. Beef broth
3. Tomato paste
4. Worcestershire sauce
5. Soy sauce
6. Dijon mustard
7. Pour over the beef.
8. Add thyme, rosemary, and the bay leaf.

Step 5: Slow Cook

1. Cover and cook:
2. Low: 7–8 hours
3. High: 4–5 hours
4. The beef should be fork-tender.

Step 6: Finish the Dish

1. Remove the bay leaf.
2. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
3. If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water, stir it into the slow cooker, and cook on High for another 15–20 minutes.

Nutrition

Calories: 360 · Protein: 34 g · Carbohydrates: 9 g · Fat: 20 g · Saturated Fat: 7 g · Fiber: 2 g · Sugar: 4 g · Cholesterol: 95 mg · Sodium: 620 mg · Iron: 22% DV · Potassium: 720 mg