After a long day, there’s something incredibly comforting about coming home to the rich aroma of slow-cooked beef wafting through the house. This slow cooker braised steak and onions recipe transforms simple ingredients into a delectable masterpiece that’s perfect for cozy family dinners or when you’re entertaining friends.
I discovered this dish during one of those busy weeks when I wanted something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. Picture thick cuts of beef topside roast simmering alongside tender caramelized onions and aromatic garlic, all enveloped in a savory sauce complemented by hints of Worcestershire and fresh thyme. The best part? You can set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to meld while you enjoy your time elsewhere.
Whether served over fluffy mashed potatoes or on its own, this dish sings with versatility and is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that brings the essence of home cooking front and center, reminding us of the joys of homemade meals.
Why is Slow Cooker Braised Steak and Onions irresistible?
Comforting Aroma: The fragrance of savory beef and caramelized onions fills your home, creating a cozy atmosphere.
Effortless Meal Prep: With minimal hands-on time, you can enjoy a gourmet dish without the fuss.
Flavor Explosion: The blend of Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and fresh thyme creates a rich, deep flavor profile that elevates this classic.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for family gatherings or casual dinner parties, this dish is bound to impress.
Versatile Serving Options: Whether paired with creamy mashed potatoes or enjoyed solo, it adapts to your preferences seamlessly.
Slow Cooker Braised Steak and Onions Ingredients
Unlock the secrets to a delectable dish!
For the Steak
• 1 kg whole beef topside roast – Cut into thick steaks, this cut is perfect for slow cooking to achieve tenderness.
• 1 tbsp Coles Classic Olive Oil – Used for searing, it adds depth to the beef’s flavor.
• 20 g Coles Australian Salted Butter – Infuses richness into the dish when sautéing onions.
For the Aromatics
• 2 brown onions – Their sweetness caramelizes beautifully, creating a savory base.
• 3 garlic cloves – Essential for that aromatic punch, adding warmth to the overall flavor.
For the Sauce
• 2 tbsp tomato paste – Provides a hint of acidity that balances the richness of the meat.
• 500 ml (2 cups) chicken stock – This adds moisture and enhances the savory profile of the slow cooker braised steak and onions.
• 1 1/2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – A must-have for umami depth in the sauce.
• 6 fresh thyme sprigs – These fragrant herbs elevate the overall essence of the dish.
• 3 dried bay leaves – Adds subtle, aromatic notes that infuse into the cooking liquid.
For Thickening
• 1 1/2 tbsp cornflour – Helps to thicken the sauce for a luscious finish.
• 2 tbsp water – Used to mix with cornflour for a smooth consistency.
For Garnish
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh continental parsley – Adds a pop of freshness and color to the final dish.
• parsley, extra, to serve – A lovely touch for presentation.
• Mashed potato, to serve (optional) – A delightful pairing that completes this cozy meal.
How to Make Slow Cooker Braised Steak and Onions
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Sear the Steaks: Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over high heat. Cook the beef topside steaks in two batches for about 3 minutes on each side, or until nicely browned. Transfer them to your slow cooker.
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Cook the Onions: Add the butter to the pan, cooking until foamy and melted. Toss in the sliced onions, reducing the heat to medium-low. Sauté for 10 minutes, stirring often until they are browned and tender, then add the garlic, cooking for an additional minute until aromatic.
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Build the Sauce: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Pour in the chicken stock, Worcestershire sauce, fresh thyme, and bay leaves. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, then pour it over the steaks in the slow cooker. Cover and let it cook on high for 5 hours, or until the beef is tender and flavorful.
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Thicken the Sauce: Combine the cornflour with water to create a smooth paste. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker, cooking for another 20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Season to taste and gently fold in the chopped parsley.
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Serve and Enjoy: Sprinkle extra parsley over the finished dish for a touch of freshness. Pair with mashed potatoes if desired for a comforting meal.
Optional: Feel free to add a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper for an extra kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Slow Cooker Braised Steak and Onions are perfect for busy home cooks! You can marinate the beef in Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring the flavors are infused deeply. Additionally, you can sauté the onions and garlic and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply layer the marinated steak in your slow cooker, add the prepped onions, tomato paste, stock, and herbs, and let it cook as per the recipe. This method not only saves time but also guarantees your dish is just as delicious, allowing you to savor a hearty meal with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Braised Steak and Onions
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: Freeze the braised steak in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken stock if it appears dry. Enjoy with fresh mashed potatoes for a comforting meal!
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the dish at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Braised Steak and Onions
- Searing Matters: Always sear your steaks thoroughly before transferring to the slow cooker; this develops rich, deep flavors in the final dish.
- Onion Care: Keep stirring the onions to prevent them from burning; you want them nicely caramelized, not charred.
- Correct Sauce Consistency: When mixing cornflour with water, ensure it’s smooth to avoid lumps in your sauce for the perfect slow cooker braised steak and onions.
- Adjusting Flavors: Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust seasoning as needed; personal preference enhances this dish, so feel free to add a pinch of salt or extra thyme!
- Serving Suggestions: For a complete meal, pair your braised steak with creamy mashed potatoes; they soak up the flavorful sauce beautifully!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Braised Steak and Onions?
Whether hosting a family dinner or seeking a home-cooked meal, complementing this savory dish enhances the whole experience.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The silky texture of mashed potatoes is perfect for soaking up the rich sauce from the beef, creating a comforting bite.
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Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky crunch of bread serves as an irresistible vehicle for enjoying every drop of the savory sauce. Dip it in and savor the delight!
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Roasted Vegetables: Beautifully caramelized veggies add a lovely sweetness and color to the plate, balancing the richness of the steak perfectly.
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Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans provide a fresh contrast in texture and a vibrant dash of color that brightens the meal.
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Coleslaw: A zesty coleslaw brings a refreshing crunch, adding a delightful contrast to the warm, hearty steak and onions.
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Red Wine: A glass of full-bodied red wine enhances the flavors of the dish, making your dining experience even more luxurious.
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Chocolate Cake: End the meal with a slice of rich chocolate cake for a sweet finish, tying the cozy dining experience together with warmth and indulgence.
Slow Cooker Braised Steak and Onions Variations
Feel free to play around with this recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs!
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Low-Carb: Substitute mashed potatoes with cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles for a lighter option that still satisfies.
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Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a delightful heat that elevates the flavor profile.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with herbs like rosemary or oregano instead of thyme for a completely different aromatic experience. These herbs can offer an unexpected twist.
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Vegetable Boost: Toss in veggies like carrots and mushrooms during the cooking process for added nutrition and a heartier texture.
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Red Wine Richness: Replace half of the chicken stock with a good-quality red wine for deep flavor and complexity that pairs beautifully with beef.
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Vegan Delight: Swap the beef for a hearty plant-based protein like lentils or mushrooms, using vegetable stock for a vegan twist on this comforting dish.
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Sweet and Savory: Add a tablespoon of brown sugar or maple syrup to the sauce to introduce a subtle sweetness that balances the savory elements perfectly.
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Creamy Finish: Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer sauce that clings beautifully to your steak or veggies.
Let your culinary creativity shine with these variations!
Slow Cooker Braised Steak and Onions Recipe FAQs
What type of beef should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, use a whole beef topside roast as specified in the recipe. This cut is known for its tenderness when slow-cooked, making it perfect for braising. Look for a roast with a good amount of marbling, which will help enhance the flavor and juiciness during cooking.
How should I store any leftovers?
Very easy! Store any leftover slow cooker braised steak and onions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will ensure that the dish retains its delicious flavors. Let it cool completely before sealing it up to avoid condensation inside the container that could make it soggy.
Can I freeze the braised steak and onions?
Of course! To freeze, place the cooled mixture in a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight. This gradual thawing method helps keep the meat tender. Once thawed, reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What if my sauce is too thin?
If your sauce isn’t as thick as you’d like after cooking, don’t fret! Mix 1 tablespoon of cornflour with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth, then stir this mixture into your slow cooker and allow it to cook for an additional 20 minutes. It’ll thicken up beautifully! Always be sure to stir it well, so you get even consistency in your sauce.
Are there any dietary considerations?
Absolutely! If you have any allergies, be cautious with the Worcestershire sauce, as it may contain allergens like gluten or anchovies. For a gluten-free version, look for gluten-free Worcestershire sauce options. This slow cooker braised steak and onions recipe is also easy to adapt for your family’s needs—feel free to substitute the beef with a vegetarian protein for a plant-based alternative!
What should I serve with the braised steak and onions?
The more the merrier! This dish pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, which absorb the rich sauce perfectly. You could also consider serving it over rice, noodles, or even with crusty bread to soak up all that delightful sauce!
Savory Slow Cooker Braised Steak and Onions for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Sear the Steaks: Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over high heat. Cook the beef topside steaks in two batches for about 3 minutes on each side, or until nicely browned. Transfer them to your slow cooker.
- Cook the Onions: Add the butter to the pan, cooking until foamy and melted. Toss in the sliced onions, reducing the heat to medium-low. Sauté for 10 minutes, stirring often until they are browned and tender, then add the garlic, cooking for an additional minute until aromatic.
- Build the Sauce: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Pour in the chicken stock, Worcestershire sauce, fresh thyme, and bay leaves. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, then pour it over the steaks in the slow cooker. Cover and let it cook on high for 5 hours, or until the beef is tender and flavorful.
- Thicken the Sauce: Combine the cornflour with water to create a smooth paste. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker, cooking for another 20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Season to taste and gently fold in the chopped parsley.
- Serve and Enjoy: Sprinkle extra parsley over the finished dish for a touch of freshness. Pair with mashed potatoes if desired for a comforting meal.