Description
This comforting Braised Steak and Onion recipe features tender chunks of beef braised slowly in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and aromatic herbs, layered with sweet, caramelized onions for a rich and savory slow cooker meal perfect for any day.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat
- 2.5 lbs beef braising steak (cut into large chunks)
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 3 yellow onions (sliced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced, optional)
- 1 bay leaf (optional)
Seasonings & Sauces
- 1 tsp salt (to taste)
- 0.5 tsp black pepper (to taste)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 splash red wine (optional)
Other Ingredients
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp oil or butter (for browning)
- 2 cups beef broth
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef: Pat the beef dry using paper towels, then season it evenly with salt and pepper. Lightly coat the beef chunks with all-purpose flour to help create a nice crust during browning.
- Brown the Beef: Heat oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the beef chunks in batches for about 2 to 3 minutes per side until all sides are nicely seared. Remove the browned beef and set it aside.
- Sauté the Onions: In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and lightly golden. If using garlic, add the minced garlic in the last minute of sautéing to release its aroma without burning.
- Assemble in Slow Cooker: Place half of the sautéed onions at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the browned beef on top, then layer the remaining onions over the beef.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and optional bay leaf and splash of red wine over the ingredients. Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
- Slow Cook: Cook on the LOW setting for 7 to 8 hours, allowing the beef to become tender and the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Optional Thicken Gravy: If you desire a thicker gravy, about 30 minutes before the cooking time ends, remove the lid and stir in a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with a bit of cold water). Then continue cooking uncovered to thicken the sauce.
Notes
- Browning the beef before slow cooking enhances flavor and texture significantly.
- Using the low setting on the slow cooker ensures tender, juicy meat.
- Optional ingredients like garlic, bay leaf, and red wine add depth but can be omitted for simplicity.
- To make the gravy thicker without cornstarch, reduce the cooking liquid by cooking uncovered near the end.
- Serve this dish with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 hours 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: braised steak, slow cooker beef, onion stew, comfort food, beef stew
