Put raw cubed beef in a slow cooker with these 3 ingredients. You won’t believe how good it tastes.
Effortless Slow-Cooker Beef Recipe (Only 3 Main Ingredients!)
If you’re craving a meal that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor, look no further. This slow-cooker beef recipe is incredibly simple—using just three main ingredients—and the result is unbelievably tender, savory meat that practically melts in your mouth. It’s the perfect dinner option for hectic weeknights or a relaxed weekend.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through each step to make this crowd-pleasing beef dish. Once you try it, you’ll want it in your regular meal rotation.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| For the Beef: | ||
| Cubed Beef (stew meat or chuck roast) | 2 lbs | Cut into bite-sized pieces |
| Ranch Seasoning Mix | 1 packet | Store-bought or homemade |
| Au Jus Gravy Mix | 1 packet | Store-bought or homemade |
| Water or Beef Broth | ½ cup | Optional, for added moisture |
| Optional Add-Ins: | ||
| Worcestershire Sauce | 1 tbsp | Adds a savory depth |
| Garlic Powder | 1 tsp | Boosts the flavor |
| Onion Powder | 1 tsp | Enhances the savory profile |
How to Make Tender Slow-Cooker Beef
Whether you’re serving this beef in tacos, over rice, or in a sandwich, the versatility and flavor make it a go-to recipe.
Step 1: Load the Slow Cooker
Begin by placing your cubed beef directly into the base of your slow cooker. Using a quality cut like chuck roast ensures the meat will turn out tender and flavorful after slow cooking.
Step 2: Add Flavor
Sprinkle the ranch seasoning and au jus mix evenly over the beef. These two packets are key—they bring creamy, zesty, and savory flavors that blend beautifully with the meat.
If you’d like to elevate the taste even more, add Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder now. They add extra depth and richness to the dish, taking it from simple to exceptional.
Step 3: Pour in Liquid (Optional)
While the beef will naturally release juices, adding ½ cup of water or beef broth can help achieve a saucier texture. This step is especially helpful if you prefer your beef moist and well-coated in flavorful juices.
Step 4: Let It Cook
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6–8 hours. If you’re short on time, you can cook on high for 3–4 hours. However, the low-and-slow method will result in melt-in-your-mouth beef that shreds effortlessly.
As it cooks, the beef will soak in all those delicious seasonings and develop a rich, savory sauce perfect for spooning over your favorite side dishes.
Step 5: Shred and Serve
When the cooking time is up, shred the beef with two forks directly in the slow cooker so it can absorb every bit of the flavorful liquid. The more finely it’s shredded, the better the flavor distribution.
Serve your juicy shredded beef over mashed potatoes, rice, or on sandwich rolls. It’s also great for meal prep and leftovers—if there are any!
