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This savory beef recipe has lived on as a crowd-pleaser and one of our go-to comforting meals. Tender, flavorful, and incredibly simple, it pairs perfectly atop a creamy mountain of mashed potatoes for the ultimate hearty dinner that everyone craves.
I first experimented with this recipe on a busy weekday, and it quickly became a family favorite that we now look forward to anytime we crave convenience and coziness in a meal.
Ingredients
- Stew meat: 3 lbs. This lean cut becomes beautifully tender after slow cooking.
- Butter: 1 stick. Adds richness and creates luxurious depth in the dish.
- Beef broth: 1 cup. The liquid foundation for the juicy and flavorful base.
- Au Jus Gravy packet: Provides savory flavor without extra work.
- Onion Soup mix packet: Brings in a blend of hearty, aromatic seasoning.
- Ranch seasoning packet: Adds a bright, herby kick to round out the dish's complexity.
How To Make Creamy Mashed Potatoes and Beef
- Add the meat:
- Place the stew meat evenly in your crockpot to ensure consistent cooking.
- Add seasonings:
- Sprinkle the meat with the Au Jus Gravy, Onion Soup mix, and Ranch seasoning for bold seasoning throughout.
- Add butter:
- Place the whole stick of butter on top of the seasoned meat to allow it to melt slowly and coat the ingredients.
- Pour in broth:
- Gently pour one cup of beef broth for a tender, moist result.
- Cook:
- Cover the crockpot and let the dish simmer on low for four to six hours. Ensure the stew meat is fork-tender before serving.
- Serve over creamy mashed potatoes:
- This step elevates the dish with a velvety texture that sits beneath the savory, flavorful beef.
My favorite part of this dish is watching my family dig in at dinnertime – seeing their satisfied faces is pure joy.
Storage Tips
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat in a covered skillet with a splash of beef broth to restore moisture. You can also freeze portions for easy future meals.
Ingredient Substitutions
Do not have stew meat? Use any tough cut like chuck roast or brisket as they also tenderize beautifully in the slow cooker. For a lower-fat option, swap butter for olive oil though the results are slightly less rich.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is a masterpiece over mashed potatoes but also shines over rice, noodles, or a crusty slice of bread. Adding a simple side of steamed green beans or roasted carrots ties everything together beautifully.
Try this recipe on your next chilly evening, and you may just find it becomes a family classic. Its comforting flavors and no-fuss process bring warmth and happiness to any table.
Recipe FAQs
- → How can I make the mashed potatoes extra creamy?
Use russet or Yukon Gold potatoes and mash them with butter, warm milk, and heavy cream. Avoid over-mixing to prevent a gummy texture.
- → Can I prepare mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, prepare them up to a day ahead. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven, adding a splash of milk or cream to keep them moist.
- → What are the best accompaniments for mashed potatoes?
Mashed potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted meats, stews, grilled vegetables, or rich sauces like gravy or mushroom cream.
- → How do I avoid lumps in my mashed potatoes?
Peel the potatoes evenly, cut them into uniform pieces, and boil until fork-tender. Use a ricer or a masher while they are hot for the best results.
- → Can I use plant-based alternatives in my mashed potatoes?
Absolutely. Substitute butter with vegan butter and use plant-based milk or cream for a dairy-free version.