If you’re looking for a meal that basically cooks itself but tastes like it belongs in a high-end restaurant, this slow-cooker beef recipe is a must. It’s hearty, comforting, and full of rich, savory flavor. With only three main ingredients and almost no prep, you can toss it in the slow cooker in the morning and come home to a kitchen filled with irresistible aromas.
This tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef stew pairs beautifully with crusty bread or creamy mashed potatoes that soak up every bit of the luscious gravy. For a lighter option, serve it with steamed green beans, buttered peas, or a crisp salad with lemon vinaigrette. For an indulgent touch, a glass of red wine—Cabernet or Merlot—complements it perfectly.
Ingredients
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2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
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1 packet (1 ounce) onion soup mix
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1 can (10.75 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
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1 cup beef broth
Optional Enhancements:
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1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce for depth
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1 cup sliced mushrooms for extra texture
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Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs for aroma
Directions
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Prepare the beef: Place the cubed beef in the slow cooker—no searing required, as slow cooking will make it tender and “fall-apart” soft.
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Add flavor: Sprinkle the onion soup mix evenly over the beef to infuse it with seasoning without extra salt.
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Combine liquids: Add the cream of mushroom soup and beef broth. Stir in Worcestershire sauce or mushrooms if using.
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Mix gently: Stir to coat the beef evenly.
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Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4–5 hours. The beef will absorb the flavors while the sauce thickens into a smooth gravy.
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Finish: Stir once more. Adjust seasoning with black pepper or parsley if desired. The beef should be fork-tender and the sauce rich.
Serving Ideas
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Classic: Serve over mashed potatoes to soak up the gravy.
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Simple & Rustic: Spoon over buttered egg noodles or rice.
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Low-Carb: Pair with roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or green beans.
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Bread Lover: Serve with a crusty baguette or thick sourdough slice to mop up the sauce.
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Complete Dinner: Add a fresh salad with vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
Pro Tips
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Choose the right beef: Chuck roast works best for tender, flavorful results.
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Take your time: Slow cooking on low for 8 hours ensures melt-in-your-mouth beef.
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Brighten flavors: Add a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar at the end to cut through richness.
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Make ahead: Flavors deepen overnight. Refrigerate leftovers for up to three days or freeze for up to three months. Reheat gently.
Variations
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Country-style: Add carrots, potatoes, and celery at the start.
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French-inspired: Use cream of onion soup, a splash of red wine, and fresh thyme.
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Spicy: Add tomato paste, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes.
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Creamy upgrade: Stir in sour cream or heavy cream before serving.
Why It Works
The onion soup mix delivers savory, umami flavor with no fuss. The cream of mushroom soup creates a silky, creamy base without extra thickening. Beef broth ties it all together, and slow cooking locks in moisture, keeping the meat tender.
This is comfort food at its simplest—minimal effort, maximum reward. Toss the ingredients in the slow cooker, and hours later, enjoy a rich, satisfying meal that smells incredible and tastes even better.