There’s a comforting rhythm to slow cooking that makes it feel like home. As I gathered the ingredients for this Slow-Cooked Beef in Tomato Gravy, the anticipation of rich, savory aromas filled the air. The moment you sear that beef chuck roast, the kitchen becomes a haven, transporting you to a cozy Sunday dinner, even if it’s just a Tuesday night.
What’s more, this recipe is a lifesaver for those evenings when you crave something hearty yet don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The way the tender beef melds with the tangy tomato gravy is nothing short of a culinary embrace. Serve it over fluffy mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta, and you’ve got a meal that both delights the senses and pleases any crowd.
So, if you’re ready to elevate your weeknight dinners and say goodbye to the fast-food rut, grab your slow cooker, and let’s make some magic happen with this beloved family recipe!
Why You'll Love This Slow-Cooked Beef in Tomato Gravy
- This recipe is incredibly easy to make, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying time with loved ones.
- The savory flavor of the tender beef combined with the rich tomato gravy creates a comforting dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Its versatility shines through as it pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta, making it a great option for any meal.
- With the slow cooker doing the work for you, this dish is a time-saver that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings.
Ingredients
Slow-Cooked Beef in Tomato Gravy Ingredients
For the Beef
• Beef chuck roast – 2 pounds, the ideal cut for slow cooking that becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender.
For the Cooking Base
• Olive oil – 1 tablespoon, used for searing the beef to lock in flavor.
• Medium onion – 1, adds a sweet aromatic depth to the dish.
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced; garlic elevates the flavor profile with its fragrant notes.
For the Gravy
• Crushed tomatoes – 1 can (28 ounces), the main component for creating a rich tomato gravy.
• Beef broth – 1 cup, enhances the overall savoriness of the dish.
• Tomato paste – 2 tablespoons, for intensifying the tomato flavor.
• Worcestershire sauce – 1 tablespoon, adds a touch of umami to the gravy.
• Dried oregano – 1 teaspoon, a classic herb that complements tomato-based dishes.
• Dried basil – 1 teaspoon, brings a warm, aromatic note that balances the acidity.
• Salt and pepper – to taste, essential for enhancing all the flavors in this slow-cooked beef in tomato gravy.
For the Garnish
• Fresh parsley – for garnish, optional, adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish.
How to Make Slow-Cooked Beef in Tomato Gravy
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Season the Beef: Start by seasoning the beef chuck roast with salt and pepper. This simple step enhances the flavor, ensuring every bite is delicious.
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Sear the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, sear the beef cubes in batches, turning them until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the browned beef into the slow cooker.
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Sauté the Onion: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes until it’s softened and translucent, filling your kitchen with a lovely aroma.
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Add Garlic: Toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Stir until fragrant, which will bring out the garlic’s rich flavor.
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Combine in Slow Cooker: Carefully transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to the slow cooker over the beef. This mix will infuse the beef with even more savory goodness.
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Mix the Gravy Ingredients: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, and basil. Mix well to combine and create a rich, flavorful gravy.
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Slow Cook the Beef: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours. The beef should become tender, and the flavors will meld beautifully during this time.
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Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the gravy, and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. This ensures that every bite is just right!
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve the slow-cooked beef in tomato gravy over rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired for an extra splash of color.
Optional: For added richness, stir in a dollop of cream just before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Slow-Cooked Beef in Tomato Gravy Variations
Feel free to elevate this dish with delightful twists and swaps that resonate with your taste buds!
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Dairy-Free: Replace beef broth with vegetable broth and skip any creamy additions for a lighter take without sacrificing flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the gravy for a subtle heat that beautifully complements the savory beef.
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Herb Boost: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary—just be sure to add them in the last hour of cooking for the best flavor!
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Mushroom Flavor: Stir in 1 cup of sliced mushrooms after browning the beef. They add a rich umami depth that enhances the dish beautifully.
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Vegetable Medley: Toss in some chopped carrots, bell peppers, or celery with the onion for vibrant colors and extra nutrients in your gravy.
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Smoky Twist: Use smoked paprika instead of regular for a deeper, smoky flavor that gives each bite a unique touch.
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Red Wine Infusion: Deglaze the skillet with a splash of red wine after searing the beef, allowing the robust flavors to meld joyfully in the gravy.
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Garlic Lovers: Double the garlic! More minced garlic will provide an extra burst of flavor, making this dish irresistibly aromatic.
How to Store and Freeze Slow-Cooked Beef in Tomato Gravy
Fridge: Store any leftover slow-cooked beef in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure the beef is cooled to room temperature before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezer: Freeze portions of the beef in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Ensure you remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn, and label with the date for easy reference.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of beef broth if the gravy thickens during storage.
Serving Suggestion: This dish tastes even better the next day, as the flavors continue to meld together while storing!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing this Slow-Cooked Beef in Tomato Gravy ahead of time is a brilliant way to save precious minutes during busy weeknights! You can season the beef and sear it up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate the beef in an airtight container after browning. Additionally, the sautéed onion and garlic can be prepped ahead and stored in the fridge for 1-2 days, maintaining their flavor and texture. When you’re ready to cook, simply place the beef, sautéed veggies, and gravy ingredients in the slow cooker, and cook on low. You’ll achieve a rich, comforting meal effortlessly, just like on a freshly made night!
What to Serve with Slow-Cooked Beef in Tomato Gravy?
Transform your hearty beef dish into a complete dining experience with these delightful pairings.
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Fluffy Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture of mashed potatoes perfectly soaks up the rich tomato gravy, providing a comforting base for the beef.
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Steamed Green Beans: Bright, tender green beans add a fresh crunch, complementing the savory depth of the tomato gravy while maintaining a lovely color contrast.
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Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread makes for an irresistible side, perfect for mopping up every last bit of that luscious gravy.
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Simple Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad with crisp lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers introduces a refreshing balance to the savory beef, making each bite feel lighter.
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Herbed Rice Pilaf: The aromatic notes of herbs in rice pilaf enhance the overall flavors of the dish and make for a satisfying, textured bite.
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Red Wine: A glass of robust red wine elevates the meal, harmonizing beautifully with the beef’s rich flavors and the tomato’s acidity.
Serve any of these delightful sides alongside your Slow-Cooked Beef in Tomato Gravy for a full, multi-sensory dining experience that warms the heart and satisfies the soul.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When preparing Slow-Cooked Beef in Tomato Gravy, remember that seasoning your beef thoroughly is key to enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
- Avoid overcrowding the skillet when searing the beef; this helps achieve a lovely brown crust that locks in moisture and taste.
- For the best texture, cut the beef into uniform cubes to ensure even cooking throughout.
- Lastly, don’t rush the cooking process; the longer you let the beef simmer, the more tender and flavorful it will become, so be patient and enjoy the aromas filling your kitchen.
Slow-Cooked Beef in Tomato Gravy Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing a beef chuck roast, look for one with a good amount of marbling—fat interspersed throughout the meat—this will ensure the beef remains juicy and tender during the slow cooking process. Avoid any cuts with dark spots or a slimy texture; those are signs of spoilage.
How should I store leftover Slow-Cooked Beef in Tomato Gravy?
For fridge storage, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. Cool the beef to room temperature before sealing, so it won’t sweat and foster bacteria. Leftovers can stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days!
Can I freeze Slow-Cooked Beef in Tomato Gravy?
Yes, for freezing, divide the beef into portions and place them in freezer-safe bags or containers. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. The beef can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
What should I do if the gravy is too thick after cooking?
Very! If your gravy thickens excessively during storage, simply add a splash of beef broth or water while reheating it. Stir until you reach your desired consistency. If you notice it after cooking but before serving, just whisk in a bit of broth over low heat to help loosen it up.
Is this recipe safe for my pets?
It’s best to avoid giving this dish to pets, especially dogs and cats. Ingredients like garlic and onion can be harmful to them in larger quantities. Always consult with your veterinarian before introducing new human foods to your furry friends.
Can I modify the recipe for dietary restrictions?
Of course! For a gluten-sensitive option, ensure that your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free. To make it dairy-free, skip any cheese garnishes. If you’re vegetarian, substitute the beef with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a flavorful alternative.
Slow-Cooked Beef in Tomato Gravy
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Beef chuck roast the ideal cut for slow cooking that becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender.
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil used for searing the beef to lock in flavor.
- 1 medium Onion adds a sweet aromatic depth to the dish.
- 3 cloves Garlic minced; enhances the flavor with its fragrant notes.
- 1 can Crushed tomatoes 28 ounces, the main component for the rich tomato gravy.
- 1 cup Beef broth enhances the overall savoriness.
- 2 tablespoons Tomato paste for intensifying the tomato flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce adds a touch of umami.
- 1 teaspoon Dried oregano a classic herb for tomato dishes.
- 1 teaspoon Dried basil brings a warm, aromatic note.
- Salt and pepper to taste, essential for enhancing flavors.
- Fresh parsley for garnish, optional; adds freshness.
Method
- Season the Beef: Start by seasoning the beef chuck roast with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, sear the beef cubes in batches, turning until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer to the slow cooker.
- Sauté the Onion: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Add Garlic: Toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Combine in Slow Cooker: Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to the slow cooker over the beef.
- Mix the Gravy Ingredients: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, and basil. Mix well.
- Slow Cook the Beef: Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
- Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the gravy and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve over rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
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