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This Crock Pot Round Steak and Gravy recipe transforms a humble cut of beef into tender, flavorful slices bathed in a rich, comforting brown gravy. It is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty that seems like it took hours of effort but really just needs a little prep before the slow cooker works its magic. The slow simmering infuses the meat with garlic and onion aromas and creates a gravy that's perfect over mashed potatoes or noodles.
I first made this on a chilly fall evening, and it quickly became a go to for cozy dinners, especially when I needed something warm waiting for me after a long day.
Ingredients
- Two pounds boneless beef round steak: cut into eight thin pieces to cook evenly and stay tender
- Salt and black pepper: to season and enhance the beef’s natural flavor
- One medium sweet onion: thinly sliced for subtle sweetness and texture that melds into the gravy
- Four cloves of fresh garlic: minced for fragrant depth, but jarred garlic works if you’re short on time
- One packet of brown gravy mix: which thickens and flavors the sauce choose a quality brand for better savory notes
- Two cups unsalted beef stock: to control salt levels since the gravy mix adds salt already
- Three tablespoons cornstarch: to thicken the gravy without clumping. It works better than flour here
Instructions
- Season the Steaks:
- Season both sides of the beef round steak evenly with salt and black pepper. This basic seasoning is key to bringing out the beef’s rich flavor.
- Layer Onion and Garlic in Slow Cooker:
- Place half of the sliced onions and half of the minced garlic into the bottom of a 6 to 8quart slow cooker. This base layer helps infuse the meat with flavor.
- Add the Steaks:
- Carefully add the seasoned steaks on top of the onion and garlic layer. This ensures the meat cooks evenly and soaks up those aromatics.
- Sprinkle Brown Gravy Mix:
- Evenly sprinkle the entire packet of brown gravy mix over the steaks. This will create the thick flavorful sauce as the beef cooks.
- Top with Remaining Onion and Garlic:
- Spread the rest of the sliced onion and minced garlic over the brown gravy mix to keep that garlicky oniony goodness throughout the dish.
- Pour in Beef Stock:
- Slowly pour in the two cups of unsalted beef stock. The unsalted stock keeps the salt balance perfect so the gravy is tasty but not too salty.
- Slow Cook the Dish:
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours or on high for 5 to 6 hours. The low and slow method breaks down the meat fibers, making it tender and juicy.
- Thicken the Gravy:
- During the last 30 minutes, scoop out about half a cup of the cooking liquid into a bowl and whisk in the cornstarch until smooth. Return this mixture to the slow cooker, stir well, cover, and increase to high heat. Cook for the remaining 30 minutes until the gravy thickens beautifully.
- Serve:
- Ladle the tender steaks and thick gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles and enjoy a classic comforting meal.
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I love how this recipe takes a less expensive cut and turns it into something special. It reminds me of family dinners where the house smelled so good from the slow cooker all day. The simple ingredients coming together so effortlessly still impresses me every time.
Storage Tips
Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. You can freeze leftovers in sealed containers or freezer bags for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave stirring occasionally to keep the gravy smooth and avoid drying out the meat.
Ingredient Substitutions
If round steak isn’t available, cubed steak or chopped chuck roast can be used but expect a slightly different texture due to fat content. Jarred minced garlic is fine in a pinch but fresh garlic adds a brighter, more vibrant flavor. Beef broth can replace beef stock but choose a low sodium variety to avoid overly salty gravy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve over creamy mashed potatoes to soak up all the gravy and provide the classic comfort food experience. Rice or buttered egg noodles also make great hearty bases for the rich sauce. For a balanced plate, add green beans, roasted carrots, or a crisp broccoli salad.
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This Crock Pot Round Steak and Gravy is a simple budget friendly comfort meal that shines with slow cooking. Serve it over mashed potatoes for classic satisfaction.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → What cuts of beef can be used for this dish?
Boneless round steak works best, but bottom round, top round, or rump steak are all suitable options when cooked low and slow.
- → How can I ensure the steak is tender?
Slow cooking the steak on low heat for 7-8 hours breaks down the tough fibers, resulting in tender, juicy meat.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles soak up the rich gravy beautifully. Steamed veggies or salads make great accompaniments too.
- → Can this dish be cooked longer than 8 hours?
Yes, cooking longer on low heat is fine and will result in even more tender meat without drying out.
- → How do I thicken the gravy?
Mix cornstarch with some cooking liquid and stir into the crock pot near the end of cooking, then cook on high until the gravy thickens.