Slow Cooker 3-Ingredient Beef Stew
This incredibly simple beef stew proves that you don’t need a long ingredient list to create a delicious, satisfying meal. With just three pantry staples and a slow cooker, you can have tender, flavorful beef stew ready when you need it most.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 packet dry onion soup mix
Instructions
- Add the beef cubes to your slow cooker.
- Pour the cream of mushroom soup over the beef.
- Sprinkle the dry onion soup mix evenly over everything.
- Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours.
- The beef should be tender and the sauce rich and flavorful when done.
- Serve hot over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice.
Practical Tips
Brown the beef first: For extra depth of flavor, brown the beef cubes in a skillet over medium-high heat for a few minutes before adding them to the slow cooker. This step is optional but creates a more complex taste.
Don’t skip the stirring: Make sure to stir all ingredients together thoroughly in step 4 to ensure the soup mix distributes evenly throughout the liquid.
Adjust your cooking time: If you’re using a smaller or larger slow cooker, check the stew after 5 hours on low. Cooking times can vary based on your specific appliance.
How to Store
Store leftover beef stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.
Common Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef? Beef chuck is ideal because it becomes tender during long, slow cooking. You can use other tough cuts like brisket or round steak, but avoid tender cuts like sirloin as they may become stringy.
What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup? You can substitute with cream of chicken soup or cream of celery soup for a similar result. The cooking method and time remain the same.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep? Absolutely. This stew actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Make it on Sunday and enjoy it throughout the week.