Oh my goodness, do I have a treat for you today! If you’ve ever experienced the joy of coming home to a delicious-smelling meal waiting for you, then you’re going to fall head over heels for this Crockpot Steak and Potatoes recipe. Nothing beats the warmth of a comforting meal that practically cooks itself while you go about your day. I can still remember the first time I made this dish—it was a chilly fall evening, and I needed something cozy to warm up my home. And let me tell you, it was a huge hit! The savory smell drifted through my kitchen, pulling my family to the dinner table like moths to a flame.
What I love about this recipe is its simplicity combined with hearty flavors. It’s one of those meals that feels like a big hug in a bowl. Plus, it’s perfect for those busy days when you want to enjoy a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. So, let’s dive in!
What’s in Crockpot Steak and Potatoes?
– Beef Stew Meat: I like to use chuck or round for this dish because it becomes tender and flavorful when cooked low and slow in the crockpot. You can often snag it on sale at the grocery store too—a definite bonus!
– Baby Potatoes: Yukon gold or red baby potatoes are my go-to. They’re just the right size and hold their shape beautifully during cooking. Plus, who doesn’t love a little bite-sized goodness?
– Onion: A medium onion, chopped, adds that lovely aroma and sweetness to the dish. It caramelizes just enough during cooking to enhance the flavor.
– Garlic: Minced garlic is a must! Four cloves might seem like a lot, but trust me, it adds to the depth of flavor.
– Beef Broth: Two cups of beef broth ensure that everything stays moist and flavorful. I usually go with low-sodium broth to control the salt levels.
– Worcestershire Sauce: This wonder sauce adds a tangy richness that compliments the beef perfectly. Just a couple of tablespoons do the trick!
– Dried Thyme and Rosemary: These herbs are fantastic additions that give the dish a lovely aromatic profile. They pair beautifully with beef.
– Salt and Pepper: Basic seasoning essentials that pull all the flavors together.
– Olive Oil: This is optional for browning the meat, but I highly recommend it! A quick sear adds an extra layer of flavor.
– Fresh Parsley: For garnish! It adds a pop of color and freshness to your finished dish.
Is Crockpot Steak and Potatoes Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish is packed with wholesome ingredients that can definitely be part of a balanced diet.
– Beef Stew Meat: It’s a great source of protein and iron, which is essential for energy.
– Baby Potatoes: These little gems are a fantastic source of vitamins and minerals, plus they’re packed with fiber that keeps you feeling full and satisfied.
– Onion and Garlic: Both have health benefits, including potential heart health properties and immune-boosting qualities.
However, be mindful of portion sizes, especially if you’re watching your sodium intake. Using low-sodium beef broth can help with that. Balance is key!
Ingredients List
– 2 lbs beef stew meat (chuck or round)
– 1.5 lbs baby potatoes (Yukon gold or red)
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil (for browning steak, optional)
– Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
*This recipe serves about 6 hearty portions.*
How to Make Crockpot Steak and Potatoes?
1. If you’re a fan of that extra rich flavor, start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat and brown it on all sides for a few minutes. This step is optional but oh-so-worth it!
2. In your crockpot, layer the chopped onions, minced garlic, and baby potatoes at the bottom.
3. Place the browned beef stew meat on top of the vegetables in the crockpot.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Pour this flavorful mixture over the meat and potatoes.
5. Cover your crockpot and cook on low for about 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the steak and potatoes are tender and full of flavor.
6. Once cooked, give everything a good stir to combine. Do a quick taste test and adjust the seasoning if needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley. You might want to pull up a chair, because you’re in for a hearty meal!
Serving Suggestions for Your Hearty Meal
Okay, folks, here’s where I like to get a little creative! Feel free to customize this dish. You can easily toss in some carrots or celery if you have them on hand. They’ll add color and nutrition!
You can serve this alongside a fresh salad or some crusty bread for dipping into that tasty broth. And let’s not forget about leftovers! The flavors deepen when reheated—if there are any left, that is!
I can’t wait for you to try this Crockpot Steak and Potatoes recipe! I hope it brings as much joy and warmth to your home as it does to mine. So grab your apron, set that crockpot, and let me know how your meal turns out. Happy cooking!
