Every time I make this Slow-Cooked Round Steak and Gravy, it reminds me of cozy Sunday dinners with my family. There’s something about the rich aroma filling the kitchen that wraps around me like a warm hug, taking me back to those cherished moments shared around the table. Do you remember those Sunday feasts when everyone would gather, and the laughter and stories flowed as freely as the gravy? I know that once you try this recipe, it will evoke similar feelings in you and your loved ones, bringing back memories that are just as delightful.
Slow-cooking is one of my absolute favorite methods to prepare meals, especially when it comes to beef. The gentle heat transforms the meat into tender, melt-in-your-mouth goodness, while the flavors of the seasonings and veggies seep into every morsel. This dish is not just food; it’s a way to connect and share love with those we hold dear.
How to make Slow-Cooked Round Steak and Gravy
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds round steak: This cut is perfect because it becomes incredibly tender during the slow cooking process.
- 1 cup beef broth: Adds depth and richness to the gravy.
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms: They bring an earthy flavor that complements the beef beautifully.
- 1 onion, sliced: Onions add sweetness and aroma, making every bite more flavorful.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic adds a wonderful savory note.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: This enhances the umami flavor in the dish.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: It’s a classic flavor booster!
- 1 teaspoon salt: Always adjust to your taste, but a little salt is essential to bring out the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: A dash of heat to balance the rich gravy.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a lovely herbal aroma.
- 2 tablespoons flour (optional): If you like a thicker gravy, this is your secret weapon.
I love adding fresh herbs like rosemary—it makes everything smell so lovely! Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have; cooking is always about being versatile and personalizing the dish.
Cooking Steps
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Prep the Round Steak: The first step is to season the round steak with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy—really rub those spices in! This is where flavor starts.
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Brown the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil. Once it’s hot, brown the round steak on both sides for about 3-4 minutes. It’s not about cooking it through at this stage; rather, it’s creating a beautiful crust that will add incredible flavor.
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Transfer to the Slow Cooker: Once the steak is nicely browned, transfer it to your slow cooker. You’ll want to soak up every bit of that delicious fond left in the skillet, so don’t wash it just yet!
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Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, sauté the onions and minced garlic until they’re soft and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Then add the mushrooms and cook for another 2-3 minutes. The sweetness of the onions combined with the savory garlic will fill your kitchen with such an inviting aroma!
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Combine Ingredients: To that lovely mixture in your skillet, pour in the beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and sprinkle in the thyme. Give it a good stir to combine all those flavors, and let everything simmer for a minute.
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Pour Over the Steak: Now, carefully pour this mixture over the round steak in your slow cooker so that it’s covered. This will ensure the meat absorbs all those wonderful flavors.
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Slow Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours. The longer, the better, really. This is your time to relax while the magic happens in that slow cooker.
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Thicken the Gravy: If you want a thicker gravy, about 30 minutes before serving, mix flour with a little cold water to form a slurry. Add this to the slow cooker and let it thicken up beautifully.
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Serve: Once ready, slice the round steak and serve it smothered in that luscious gravy. Trust me, you’re going to want to have something like fluffy mashed potatoes or fresh bread to soak up all that goodness!
Why I Love Making This Dish
Slow-Cooked Round Steak and Gravy holds a special place in my heart for many reasons. It’s comfort food at its finest and brings back vivid memories of my mother in the kitchen, preparing meals for our family on chilly evenings. There’s something about gathering everyone around the table, sharing stories, and indulging in hearty food that nourishes not just our bodies but our souls as well.
I also appreciate how easy this recipe is to prepare. You can get everything ready in the morning, and when dinner time rolls around, you won’t be scrambling in a frenzy. Instead, you can enjoy the anticipation of serving a delicious meal that’s been cooking slowly while you went about your day. It’s perfect for busy moms, grandmas, or anyone looking to create family memories through food.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Don’t Rush the Browning: Trust me when I say that browning the meat is crucial. It builds the flavor foundation of your dish.
- Use Good Quality Beef Broth: The broth can truly make or break your gravy. Opt for homemade if you have it, or invest in a quality store-bought brand.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, give the steak a few minutes to rest before slicing. This lets the juices redistribute, making each bite succulent.
Serving Suggestions and Sides
When I serve Slow-Cooked Round Steak and Gravy, I can’t help but think about all the perfect sides to accompany it. Fluffy mashed potatoes or creamy polenta work wonderfully. Both soak up the delicious gravy beautifully! You could also serve it with a side of green beans or roasted carrots for a pop of color and nutrition. Don’t forget a nice crusty loaf of bread; it’s perfect for mopping up every last bit of gravy.
Leftovers
Oh, let me tell you, if you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, you’re in for a treat! Just place the remaining steak and gravy in an airtight container in the fridge. It should last for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if it needs a little moisture. I love making steak sandwiches the next day with the leftovers—just add some thick slices of crusty bread and a bit more gravy. It’s so good!
FAQ Section
Can I use another cut of beef?
You can certainly try different cuts, but I always find that round steak delivers the best results. It’s juicy and breaks down nicely in the slow cooker.
How much salt should I use?
I usually start with one teaspoon, but feel free to adjust according to your taste. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it out!
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! Just make sure to cool the leftovers completely before placing them in a freezer-safe container. They should last about 2-3 months in the freezer.
This Slow-Cooked Round Steak and Gravy has become a beloved staple at our house, and I’m so excited for you to try it. It’s one of those dishes that brings everyone together and feels like a warm embrace from the inside out. I can’t wait for you to experience the joys of making this dish for your family! Let me know how it turns out, and if your loved ones ask for seconds, just like mine do every time. Happy cooking!