There’s something truly comforting about the rich aroma that fills the kitchen while my Slow Cooked Round Steak simmers away. This dish is a warm embrace on a chilly evening, bringing together juicy, tender steak and fresh vegetables in a savory sauce that wraps each bite in pure satisfaction. I often find myself leaning down to catch that delicious scent wafting through the air, a reminder of family dinners and shared moments.
After a long day, there’s no better solution to revitalize your dinner routine than this easy, stress-free meal. Simply toss your ingredients into the slow cooker and let them work their magic while you unwind. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its convenience but also in its incredible flavor that transforms simple ingredients into a wholesome feast.
Join me in creating a dish that’s not just about feeding the family but also about creating cherished memories around the dinner table—a meal that is as much about comfort as it is about taste. So grab your slow cooker, and let’s dive into the satisfying world of Slow Cooked Round Steak!
Why is Slow Cooked Round Steak a must-try?
Tenderness Guaranteed: The slow cooking method ensures that each piece of steak becomes incredibly tender and flavorful, making it melt in your mouth.
Aromatic Bliss: As it cooks, your kitchen fills with the inviting scent of garlic, herbs, and simmering broth, perfect for cozy evenings.
Simple Preparation: Just toss ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the work—ideal for busy nights!
Crowd-Pleasing Meal: Serve this hearty dish over mashed potatoes or rice, and watch your family or guests come back for seconds.
For more flavorful ideas, check out my recipe for Savory Slow Cooked Round Steak with Vegetables.
Slow Cooked Round Steak Ingredients
For the Steak
- Round Steak – Cut into 1-inch pieces for even cooking and tenderness.
- Olive Oil – Use for sautéing; vegetable or canola oil can be used as a substitute.
For the Sauce
- Beef Broth – Provides moisture and depth for the savory sauce; replace with vegetable broth if desired.
- Diced Tomatoes – Adds sweetness and acidity; feel free to use crushed tomatoes for a thicker consistency.
- Worcestershire Sauce – Delivers umami flavor; soy sauce can offer a suitable alternative if needed.
For the Vegetables
- Onion – Sweet and flavorful; yellow or white onions are ideal.
- Garlic – Fresh garlic enhances the dish flavor; garlic powder can work in a pinch.
- Carrots – Adds sweetness and texture; use baby carrots for convenience or slice regular ones.
- Celery – Provides crunch and aromatic flavor; bell pepper can be a nice twist.
For Seasoning
- Dried Thyme – Gives an earthy touch; fresh thyme can intensify the flavor.
- Dried Rosemary – Adds depth; fresh rosemary works well—just halve the amount.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning to taste.
For Thicker Sauce (Optional)
- Cornstarch – Mix with water to thicken up the sauce; arrowroot powder is a great substitute if needed.
For Garnish
- Fresh Parsley – A sprinkle adds color and freshness to the finished dish.
Dive into the delightful world of Slow Cooked Round Steak, and enjoy a meal that’s simple yet unforgettable!
How to Make Slow Cooked Round Steak
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Season the Steak: Sprinkle the round steak pieces generously with salt and pepper. This simple step enhances the natural flavors, ensuring each bite is deliciously seasoned.
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Brown the Meat: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak pieces, browning them on all sides for about 4-5 minutes, which adds depth and flavor to your dish (this step is optional).
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Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Layer the browned steak, sliced onions, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery into the slow cooker. This creates a beautiful foundation of flavors for your meal.
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Add Liquids: Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and rosemary. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients, letting the magic begin!
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Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The steak will be tender when it’s fork-tender and easily falls apart.
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Thicken Sauce (Optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with a bit of water to create a slurry. Stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a luscious finish.
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Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley right before serving, then serve over warm mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or with crusty bread to soak up that delightful gravy.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves for an extra touch of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Slow Cooked Round Steak meals are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal prep! You can prepare the marinade and chop the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance. Simply season the round steak pieces and combine them with the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery in a zip-top bag, adding a splash of beef broth and Worcestershire sauce to infuse flavors overnight. When you’re ready to cook, transfer everything to the slow cooker and proceed with the recipe. Keeping the components refrigerated will maintain their quality, and you’ll enjoy a meal that tastes just as delicious, all while saving precious time on hectic weeknights!
Storage Tips for Slow Cooked Round Steak
- Fridge: Store leftover slow cooked round steak in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s cooled down before sealing to keep the moisture in.
- Freezer: You can freeze the steak for up to 3 months. Portion it into meal-sized containers or freezer bags and remove as much air as possible before sealing.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on low heat in a skillet or microwave to avoid drying out the meat. Add a splash of beef broth to revive the sauce’s moisture, if needed.
- Thawing: If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, ensuring the slow cooked round steak remains tender and flavorful.
What to Serve with Slow Cooked Round Steak?
Elevate your dinner experience with delightful side dishes that enhance the flavors of this comforting meal.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smoothness of mashed potatoes complements the savory sauce, creating a warm and satisfying base for the steak. They soak up all the delicious gravy, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor.
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Steamed Green Beans: Their crisp texture adds a refreshing contrast to the tender steak. Tossed in a little butter and garlic, they provide a bright pop of color and flavor on your plate.
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Crusty Bread: Perfect for sopping up the mouthwatering sauce, a thick slice of crusty bread serves as a delightful accompaniment. It transforms your meal into a comforting feast—each bite better than the last.
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Roasted Carrots: Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory round steak, bringing an added layer of flavor. The caramelized edges from roasting offer a wonderful contrast in texture and taste.
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Red Wine: A glass of full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon enhances the meal wonderfully. Its bold flavors complement the richness of the dish, creating a harmonious dining experience.
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Simple Salad: A fresh mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the hearty flavors of the steak. The crunchy texture and tartness lighten the meal, refreshing your palate between bites.
Expert Tips for Slow Cooked Round Steak
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Flavor Boost: Searing the steak before slow cooking adds depth to the dish. If you’re short on time, skip this step but be aware it slightly affects the overall flavor.
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Use Fresh Herbs: For the best taste in your slow cooked round steak, opt for fresh thyme and rosemary when possible. Dried herbs are convenient but fresh offers unparalleled flavor.
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Don’t Skip the Tasting: Always taste the dish during cooking to ensure the seasoning is true to your preference. Adjust salt and pepper accordingly for the perfect finish.
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Avoid Overcrowding: Layer your vegetables and steak in the slow cooker without packing too tightly. This ensures even cooking and the best texture for your round steak.
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Perfect Pairing: Serve with mashed potatoes or rice to balance the savory sauce. Their creaminess complements the dish beautifully, enhancing the comforting experience.
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Store Wisely: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently to maintain the tender and succulent quality of the slow cooked round steak.
Slow Cooked Round Steak Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and tailor it to suit your taste preferences.
- Different Cuts: Swap round steak for chuck roast or brisket for a richer flavor and texture. Each cut brings its own unique depth to the dish.
- Veggie Additions: Toss in potatoes for a complete meal or add green beans for a pop of color and nutrition; they’ll add freshness and balance.
- Herb Twist: Experiment with spices like smoked paprika or herbs such as oregano to elevate the flavor profile. A little twist can make all the difference!
- Spice It Up: If you enjoy heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños for a zesty kick that pairs beautifully with the savory sauce.
- Mushroom Medley: Incorporate sliced mushrooms for a delightful earthy flavor that complements the meat. They’ll soak up the sauce beautifully!
- Citrus Brightness: Squeeze a little lemon or lime juice before serving to brighten up the dish. This adds a refreshing balance to the rich flavors.
- Beans for Protein: Include white beans or lentils for a heartier option that’s also packed with plant-based protein. It’s a great way to switch things up!
- Flavorful Broth: Try using homemade beef stock instead of store-bought broth for an exceptional depth of flavor. You’ll taste the love in every bite!
Slow Cooked Round Steak Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe vegetables for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing vegetables, look for onions that are firm and have smooth skin, avoiding those with soft spots or blemishes. Carrots should be bright orange and firm, with no dark spots, while celery should be crisp and green. Fresh garlic should have tight skin and be free from sprouting. Using the freshest vegetables will enhance the flavors of your slow cooked round steak.
How should I store leftover slow cooked round steak?
Leftover slow cooked round steak can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it has cooled completely before sealing to maintain moisture. If you want to enjoy it later, transfer it to the freezer for up to 3 months; just remember to portion it out for easy reheating!
Can I freeze slow cooked round steak? If so, how?
Yes! You can freeze your slow cooked round steak to enjoy it later. Portion the steak into meal-sized containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Before sealing, remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the bags with the date and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.
What should I do if my slow cooked round steak is tough?
Very! If your steak turns out tough, it’s likely because it wasn’t cooked long enough. Slow cooking not only tenderizes the meat but also breaks down connective tissues, making it fork-tender. If you find the steak is tough when you check it, don’t panic! Just cover it back up and let it cook on low for another hour or so until it reaches that perfect tenderness.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of when making this dish?
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, make sure to check for allergies to ingredients like Worcestershire sauce (which typically contains anchovies) or gluten. You can always replace it with tamari for a gluten-free option. Additionally, if you’re including pets in your family mealtime considerations, be cautious with seasoning, as excess salt and some herbs can be harmful to them.
Can I use a different cut of meat for this recipe?
Very! While round steak is the star of this recipe, you can absolutely substitute it with cuts like chuck roast or brisket for different textures and flavors. Chuck roast tends to be even more forgiving during long cooking times and can yield a juicy, flavorful result just like your original recipe. Just remember to adjust the cooking time based on thickness and size!
Heavenly Slow Cooked Round Steak That Melts in Your Mouth
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Sprinkle the round steak pieces generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak pieces, browning them on all sides for about 4-5 minutes.
- Layer the browned steak, sliced onions, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery into the slow cooker.
- Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and rosemary. Stir gently to combine.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with a bit of water to create a slurry. Stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.