Slow Cooker Beef & Mushrooms

Ingredients

• 2 lb beef chuck roast (cut into 2-inch cubes)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 8 oz mushrooms (sliced)
• 1 onion (small, diced)
• 3 garlic (cloves, minced)
• 2 cup beef broth
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 2 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening slurry)
• fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Steps

1. 1

   Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. 2

   Add the 2 pounds of cubed beef chuck roast to the skillet and sear until browned on all sides.

3. 3

   Transfer the browned beef into the slow cooker.

4. 4

   In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and diced onion. Sauté until the onions are translucent and mushrooms have softened.

5. 5

   Add the 3 minced garlic cloves to the skillet and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.

6. 6

   Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon salt.

7. 7

   Pour in 2 cups of beef broth, 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, and 2 tablespoons of soy sauce. Stir to combine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

8. 8

   Pour the liquid and vegetable mixture over the beef in the slow cooker.

9. 9

   Cover and cook on Low for 7-8 hours or on High for 4-5 hours, until the beef is fork-tender.

10. 10

    If a thicker sauce is desired, whisk together 2 tablespoons of cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl to create a slurry.

11. 11

    Stir the slurry into the slow cooker and cook on High for an additional 15-20 minutes until the sauce has thickened.

12. 12

    Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

For the best results, do not skip searing the beef, as it adds a deep savory flavor to the final stew. Serve over creamy mashed potatoes or egg noodles.

Nutrition per serving

• main
• slow-cooker
• beef
• stew
• comfort food
• dinner