This Easy Slow Cooker Beef and Onion Gravy is one of those dependable comfort food recipes that tastes like you worked all day. Just dump and go and let the slow cooker do most of the work. Tender beef stew meat cooks low and slow in a flavorful blend of onion soup mix, sloppy joe sauce, and red wine, creating a deep, hearty gravy that’s perfect over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or piled high onto a sandwich bun.
Some days you just need a dinner that works. No complicated steps. No hovering over the stove. Just simple ingredients, a slow cooker, and hours later… a rich, savory beef dinner covered in thick onion gravy.
If you’re looking for an easy slow cooker beef recipe that feeds a crowd and reheats beautifully, this one belongs in your regular dinner rotation.
Why I Love This Recipe
This slow cooker beef recipe combines pantry staples to build incredible flavor and it just takes minutes to toss everything into the slow cooker.
- Onion soup mix adds bold, savory depth
- Manwich sauce brings a subtle tang and sweetness
- Red wine enhances richness and complexity
- A simple cornstarch slurry creates thick, luscious gravy
The result? Fork-tender beef in a silky onion gravy that tastes homemade and comforting.
Easy Slow Cooker Beef and Onion Gravy
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Kitchen Essentials
Ingredients
- 4 Pounds Beef Stew Meat cut into bite size pieces
- 4 Ounces Onion Soup Mix 2 packets
- 15 Ounces Manwich Sloppy Joe Sauce 1 can
- ½ Cup Red Wine
- 3 Tablespoons Cornstarch
- ½ Cup Water
Instructions
How to Make Easy Slow Cooker Beef & Onion Gravy
- Place the beef stew meat in the slow cooker. Sprinkle the onion soup mix evenly over the meat. Pour in the Manwich sauce and red wine. Stir well to combine.4 Pounds Beef Stew Meat, 4 Ounces Onion Soup Mix, 15 Ounces Manwich Sloppy Joe Sauce, ½ Cup Red Wine
- Cook on Low for 8 hours, or High for 4 hours.
- During the last 30 minutes of cooking. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth. Stir the mixture into the slow cooker. Continue cooking until the gravy thickens.3 Tablespoons Cornstarch, ½ Cup Water
- That’s it — simple ingredients, big flavor.
Your Own Private Notes
Notes
Slow Cooker Tips for Tender Beef
- Use beef chuck or stew meat for best results.
- Don’t rush the cook time — low and slow produces the most tender beef.
- If you prefer deeper flavor, you can brown the beef before adding it to the slow cooker (optional).
Substitutions & Variations
No red wine?Substitute beef broth, additional water, or a splash of Worcestershire sauce. Want extra vegetables?
Add sliced mushrooms or diced onions at the beginning of cooking. Prefer a thicker gravy?
Add an extra tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water.
Nutrition
Storing Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating:
- Microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each.
- Or reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat.
- Add a splash of broth or water if the gravy thickens too much.
Serving Suggestions
- This crockpot beef and onion gravy is incredibly versatile. Try it:
- Over Mashed Potatoes. Creamy mashed potatoes soak up the rich gravy beautifully.
- Over Egg Noodles. Wide egg noodles make this feel like a hearty, old-fashioned beef dinner.
- On a Sandwich Bun. Spoon the beef onto a toasted bun for a savory hot beef sandwich. Add cheese if desired.
- Over Rice. An easy, budget-friendly way to stretch the meal.
Can You Freeze Slow Cooker Beef?
Yes! This recipe freezes very well.
Let the beef cool completely. Transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat:
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
- Warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
- Add a little liquid if needed to loosen the gravy.
This makes it a wonderful make-ahead meal for busy weeks or meal prep.
Make It a Complete Comfort Meal
Serve your Easy Slow Cooker Beef & Onion Gravy with:
- Steamed green beans
- Roasted carrots
- A simple side salad
- Fresh dinner rolls
It’s hearty, filling, and exactly the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table.
