There’s nothing quite like the feeling of coming home after a long day to the intoxicating aroma of a meal that’s been simmering away all day. That’s the magic of slow-cooked beef in tomato gravy! The rich, savory scent wrapping around you like a warm hug instantly lifts your spirits. I discovered this recipe one chilly evening, and it has since become a cherished staple in my home.
What I love about this dish is its versatility. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply feed the family after a busy day, this recipe ticks all the boxes for comfort and ease. The tender chunks of beef practically melt in your mouth, swimming in a luscious tomato gravy that’s perfect over rice, mashed potatoes, or even pasta. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’ll have even the pickiest eaters asking for seconds!
So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this slow-cooked wonder that promises heartwarming satisfaction with minimal fuss. You’ll be delighted to see how something so comforting can be prepared with just a handful of ingredients!
Why You'll Love This Slow-Cooked Beef in Tomato Gravy
- This recipe is incredibly easy to make, allowing you to prepare a delicious meal with minimal effort.
- The flavors meld beautifully during the slow cooking process, resulting in tender beef that’s bursting with savory goodness.
- Its versatility makes it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends.
- Plus, the stunning presentation of this hearty dish will impress your guests and leave them asking for your secret.
Slow-Cooked Beef in Tomato Gravy Ingredients
Unlock the delicious secrets behind this heartwarming dish!
For the Beef
• Beef chuck roast – this cut is ideal for slow cooking, becoming tender and flavorful as it simmers.
For the Sauté
• Olive oil – helps brown the beef and adds richness to the overall flavor profile.
• Medium onion – brings a natural sweetness and depth to the gravy when sautéed.
• Garlic – infuses the dish with aromatic goodness that enhances the beef.
For the Sauce
• Crushed tomatoes – forms the base of the gravy, offering a rich, tangy flavor that’s essential for this slow-cooked beef in tomato gravy.
• Beef broth – adds moisture and amplifies the beefy undertones in the dish.
• Tomato paste – intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the gravy.
• Worcestershire sauce – contributes a complex umami kick that deepens the overall taste.
• Dried oregano – introduces an earthy note that works beautifully with the meat.
• Dried basil – brings a hint of sweetness that complements the tomatoes.
• Salt and pepper – essential for seasoning, enhancing the natural flavors of your ingredients.
For Garnish
• Fresh parsley – a sprinkle of this adds a bright pop of color and freshness to your serving plate.
How to Make Slow-Cooked Beef in Tomato Gravy
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Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper, ensuring each piece is generously coated. This step is crucial for enhancing the flavor right from the start.
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Sear the beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Brown the beef cubes in batches for about 5 minutes until they’re nicely caramelized on all sides. Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker.
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Sauté the onion: In the same skillet, toss in the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it’s softened and translucent, developing a sweet aroma.
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Add the garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, releasing its delightful scent.
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Combine the sautéed mixture: Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to the slow cooker with the seared beef, layering those flavors together.
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Mix the sauce: Stir in crushed tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, and basil into the slow cooker. Make sure everything is well combined to create a rich gravy.
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Cook on low: Cover the slow cooker and let it work its magic. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours until the beef is tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
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Taste the gravy: Before serving, give the gravy a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, ensuring it’s just right for your palate.
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Serve the beef: Dish out the tender beef in tomato gravy over rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta, and sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired for a vibrant touch.
Optional: A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese adds a delightful creaminess.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Slow-Cooked Beef in Tomato Gravy
Room Temperature: Leave the slow-cooked beef in tomato gravy out for no longer than 2 hours after cooking to prevent bacteria growth.
Fridge: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool completely before transferring to freezer bags or containers.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Gently warm on the stovetop and add a splash of beef broth if the gravy has thickened.
Slow-Cooked Beef in Tomato Gravy Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this recipe and create your unique masterpiece, bursting with flavor and warmth.
- Dairy-Free: Replace any creamy accompaniments with a splash of coconut milk for richness without dairy.
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes to the gravy for a delightful heat that tantalizes the taste buds.
For a more adventurous take, consider incorporating a bit of chipotle in adobo sauce for a smoky warmth that pairs surprisingly well with the tomato gravy.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap beef for mushrooms or hearty lentils, allowing the tomatoes to shine as a nourishing base. This vegetarian twist is just as comforting!
Instagram-worthy and delicious, these alternatives not only provide a healthier option but also showcase the versatility of this beloved dish.
- Herb Boost: Use fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme in place of dried oregano and basil for a fresher, more aromatic flavor profile. The impact of fresh herbs is profound and will elevate the overall dish.
Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen as those herbs infuse into the rich sauce—absolutely divine!
- Sweet Additions: Introduce a tablespoon of brown sugar or honey to the sauce, enhancing the natural sweetness of the tomatoes while balancing acidity.
This twist offers a beautiful complexity, making every bite a delightful surprise.
- Beer Infusion: Replace some beef broth with a dark beer like stout for a deeper, richer flavor profile that adds incredible depth to the gravy.
This substitution will not only add a unique note but will create a mouthwatering aroma as it cooks.
- Asian Flair: Stir in a tablespoon of soy sauce and a splash of sesame oil for a fusion twist that incorporates delicious umami flavors.
This variation will take your dish on a flavorful journey, surprising and delighting your family and friends.
- Citrus Zing: A squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice just before serving brightens the flavors and cuts through the richness, giving it a refreshing finish.
With these variations, you can tailor the slow-cooked beef in tomato gravy to suit your mood, dietary needs, or culinary whim!
Make Ahead Options
These Slow-Cooked Beef in Tomato Gravy are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weekdays! You can season and sear the beef up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and full of flavor. Additionally, you can chop the onion and garlic ahead of time, storing them in a sealed bag to maintain their freshness. When you’re ready to cook, simply combine all the ingredients in your slow cooker and let the magic unfold. This way, you’ll enjoy a hearty meal that tastes just as delicious, with minimal effort, making dinnertime a breeze!
What to Serve with Slow-Cooked Beef in Tomato Gravy?
There’s nothing like the comforting warmth of a delicious meal to round out your dining experience.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth, buttery texture of mashed potatoes pairs perfectly, soaking up the rich tomato gravy like a hug on your plate.
- Steamed Green Beans: Crisp, bright green beans add a refreshing crunch that complements the tender beef and hearty sauce. Toss with a hint of lemon for a zesty contrast.
- Garlic Bread: Soft, warm garlic bread is a must-have for mopping up every last drop of that scrumptious gravy. It’s the perfect indulgence to complete your meal.
- Buttered Noodles: Simple yet satisfying, buttery egg noodles are a classic choice that meld beautifully with the savory sauce—easy to prepare and utterly comforting.
- Simple Arugula Salad: The peppery arugula brings a fresh, peppery bite to the table, balancing the richness of the beef dish while adding a touch of brightness.
- Red Wine: A robust red wine enhances the meal, echoing the deep flavors of the beef and elevating your dining experience to something truly special.
- Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light and airy chocolate mousse serves as a delightful contrast, providing a sweet finish to the savory feast.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots and potatoes have caramelized edges with a hint of sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the tomato gravy’s acidity for a vibrant side.
- Crusty Baguette: Crusty bread can’t go wrong with this dish—slice it up and let your guests indulge in creating their own little morsels of flavor with gravy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the Slow-Cooked Beef in Tomato Gravy, always season your beef generously with salt and pepper before searing to enhance the flavor.
- When searing, avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure that each piece develops a beautiful caramelized crust.
- Make sure to deglaze your skillet after sautéing the onions and garlic to capture any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom, enhancing the gravy.
- When cooking in the slow cooker, opt for a low and slow approach, allowing a minimum of 6 hours on low to achieve perfectly tender beef and rich flavors.
Slow-Cooked Beef in Tomato Gravy Recipe FAQs
What kind of beef is best for slow cooking?
Absolutely! For this Slow-Cooked Beef in Tomato Gravy, I recommend using beef chuck roast. It contains enough marbling and connective tissue that breaks down during the slow cooking process, resulting in tender, flavorful beef that practically melts in your mouth.
How long can I store leftover slow-cooked beef in tomato gravy?
Very! You can store your delicious leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s cooled to room temperature before sealing it up to keep that gravy from becoming too thick.
Can I freeze slow-cooked beef in tomato gravy?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the beef cool completely before portioning it into airtight freezer bags or containers. You’ll want to savor it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and gently reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth if the gravy thickened too much during freezing.
How do I prevent the beef from becoming tough in the slow cooker?
For perfectly tender beef, be sure to cook on low for at least 6 hours. If you’re short on time, the high setting is fine as well; just make sure not to rush it too much. Searing the beef first is also a vital step, as it helps develop flavorful caramelization that enhances the overall richness of the dish.
Can I use any substitutes for tomato paste and crushed tomatoes?
Of course! If you’re out of tomato paste, you can substitute an additional can of crushed tomatoes and increase the cooking time slightly to reduce it down. As for crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes or even passata can work in a pinch, but the key is to retain that robust tomato flavor in your Slow-Cooked Beef in Tomato Gravy.
Is this recipe safe for pets, and are there any allergens?
It’s best to keep this dish away from pets since it contains garlic and onions, which can be harmful to dogs and cats. For allergies, the primary allergens are wheat (if using certain pasta varieties), soy (if using specific Worcestershire sauces), and beef. Always check ingredient labels to ensure the dish is safe for your guests.
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
- skillet
Ingredients
For the Beef
- 3 pounds Beef chuck roast
For the Sauté
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 1 medium Onion chopped
- 3 cloves Garlic minced
For the Sauce
- 28 ounces Crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups Beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon Dried basil
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Pepper
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper, ensuring each piece is generously coated.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Brown the beef cubes in batches for about 5 minutes until they’re nicely caramelized on all sides. Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker.
- In the same skillet, toss in the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it's softened and translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to the slow cooker with the seared beef.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, and basil into the slow cooker.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.
- Before serving, taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Dish out the tender beef in tomato gravy over rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta, and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
