Put raw cubed beef in a slow cooker with these 3 ingredients. You won’t believe how good it tastes.

If you’re in search of a recipe that’s simple yet incredibly delicious, you’ve come to the right place. This slow-cooker beef recipe with only three main ingredients will have your taste buds dancing. Imagine the tender, juicy beef that’s infused with rich, savory flavors, all thanks to a few simple seasonings. What makes this dish even more appealing is that it requires minimal preparation, making it a perfect option for a busy weeknight or a lazy weekend meal.
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In this article, we’ll take you through every step, providing you with detailed instructions to make the most out of your slow-cooked cubed beef. You won’t believe how amazing it tastes, and we guarantee that once you try it, you’ll be making this meal again and again.
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Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
---|---|---|
For the Beef: | ||
Beef stew meat or chuck roast (cut into cubes) | 2 lbs | |
Ranch seasoning mix | 1 packet | (store-bought or homemade) |
Au jus gravy mix | 1 packet | (store-bought or homemade) |
Water or beef broth | 1/2 cup | (optional, for extra moisture) |
Optional Add-Ins: | ||
Worcestershire sauce | 1 tablespoon | (for added depth) |
Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon | (for extra flavor) |
Onion powder | 1 teaspoon | (for savory goodness) |
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for making this delicious slow-cooked beef recipe. Whether you’re using it for tacos, sandwiches, or just enjoying it on its own, this recipe is incredibly versatile and guarantees satisfaction every time.
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Step 1: Prep the Slow Cooker
Start by placing your raw cubed beef into the bottom of your slow cooker. The key here is to use high-quality beef that’s tender and flavorful, like beef stew meat or a chuck roast cut into small, bite-sized cubes. The slow cooking process will help the beef become incredibly tender, and you’ll want each piece to absorb the rich seasonings and juices.
Step 2: Add the Seasonings
Once the beef is in the slow cooker, sprinkle ranch seasoning mix and au jus gravy mix evenly over the top. These two seasoning packets will create the flavor base for the beef. Ranch seasoning brings a creamy, zesty kick, while au jus gravy mix adds a deep, savory umami flavor that complements the beef beautifully.
For those who love extra layers of flavor, now is the time to add in the optional Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder. These ingredients are perfect for boosting the overall taste profile of the dish. The Worcestershire sauce adds a tangy, umami-packed richness, while garlic and onion powders provide the savory goodness that makes every bite irresistible.
Step 3: Add Liquid (Optional)
While the slow cooker beef will release its own juices as it cooks, you can choose to add 1/2 cup of water or beef broth to ensure a moister consistency. This step is optional, but it can make a difference if you prefer a slightly saucier beef. The liquid will also help distribute the flavors more evenly throughout the beef.
Step 4: Cook on Low
Now that everything is in the slow cooker, cover it and set your slow cooker to low heat. You’ll want to cook the beef for about 6-8 hours for the best results. If you’re short on time, you can cook it on high heat for about 3-4 hours, but cooking it slowly on low will ensure the beef becomes fork-tender and easily shreds apart.
As the beef cooks, it will soak up all the flavorful seasonings and create a rich, savory sauce that’s perfect for serving over rice, potatoes, or even in sandwiches.
Step 5: Shred and Serve
Once the cooking time has passed, it’s time to check your beef. It should be tender enough to shred easily with two forks. Carefully shred the beef in the slow cooker to allow it to soak up all of the flavorful juices. The more you shred the beef, the more flavor it will absorb.
Now, it’s time to serve! This tender, savory beef pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. You can serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or even in a soft sandwich bun for a delicious beef sandwich. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or meal prepping for the week, this slow-cooked beef will be a hit with everyone.