# Slow Cooker Steaks and Gravy: A Satisfying Comfort Dish
Slow Cooker Steaks and Gravy is a wonderful recipe that transforms everyday cuts of steak into a flavorful and hearty meal. Enhanced with the essence of onions, mushrooms, and savory bacon, this dish features a homemade beef gravy that unites all the elements. The slow cooking method guarantees that the steaks turn out tender and soak up the robust, comforting flavors of the ingredients.
## Reasons to Try This Recipe
This dish is ideal for anyone wanting to prepare a cozy dinner with minimal active cooking time. It turns budget-friendly cuts of steak into a succulent, tasty meal, perfect for serving over mashed potatoes or homemade egg noodles, making it a flexible option for any dinner occasion.
### Recipe Highlights
– **Taste**: The mix of succulent beef, smoky bacon, earthy mushrooms, and sweet onions creates a rich and flavorful outcome, complemented by hints of garlic, herbs, and red wine.
– **Ease**: With just 20 minutes of preparation and a total cooking time of around 4 hours and 50 minutes, this recipe suits busy weeknights perfectly.
– **Equipment Required**: A 6-quart slow cooker, a frying pan, and a meat mallet are all you need to whip up this tasty dish.
## Ingredient Information
– **Steak**: Cube steak is best for this recipe, as it becomes particularly tender in the slow cooker. Round steak can also work but might need more cooking time. Chuck roast or stewing beef are other excellent choices.
– **Bacon**: Contributes a smoky richness to the dish and can be used in thick-cut or regular slices.
– **Red Wine**: Adds depth to the gravy. If you choose not to use wine, replace it with extra beef broth.
– **Mushrooms**: Cremini mushrooms deliver a stronger flavor, while white mushrooms offer a more delicate taste. Pre-sliced mushrooms can reduce prep time.
## Cooking Directions
1. **Tenderize the Steaks**: Use a meat mallet to pound the steaks for tenderizing.
2. **Fry the Bacon**: In a frying pan, cook the bacon until crispy. Take the bacon out, leaving the fat in the pan.
3. **Brown the Steaks**: Season the steaks with salt and pepper, then brown them in the bacon fat. Position the browned steaks in the bottom of the slow cooker.
4. **Sauté Onions**: Add onions to the frying pan and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened, then transfer them to the slow cooker.
5. **Deglaze the Pan**: Pour red wine into the frying pan, scraping up any browned bits, and add it to the slow cooker with the other ingredients (except for bacon and cornstarch).
6. **Slow Cook**: Cook on low for 8-9 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.
7. **Thicken the Gravy**: Remove the bay leaf. Combine cornstarch with water and stir this mix into the slow cooker. Cover and cook for an additional 15 minutes until thickened.
8. **Serve**: Mix in the bacon and serve right away over mashed potatoes or egg noodles.
## Leftover Storage
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or in the freezer for as long as 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth if the gravy thickens too much.
## Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
– **Calories**: 637
– **Protein**: 55g
– **Fat**: 38g
– **Carbohydrates**: 11g
– **Sodium**: 611mg
– **Cholesterol**: 185mg
Slow Cooker Steaks and Gravy is a comforting meal that is guaranteed to satisfy the entire family. Delight in the rich flavors and tender texture provided by this slow-cooked recipe!