Slow Cooker Beef and Mushroom Gravy Stew
If you’re craving a rich, hearty slow cooker dinner that tastes like it simmered all day but barely takes any effort this Slow Cooker Beef and Mushroom Gravy Stew is exactly what you need. Made with just 9 simple ingredients, this cozy recipe delivers fork-tender beef, savory mushrooms, and a thick homemade-style gravy with almost no prep.
Inspired by classic Midwestern comfort food, this dump-and-go crockpot stew is perfect for busy weeknights, cold evenings, or anytime you want a satisfying meal without standing over the stove. Everything comes together in one savory mixture, stirred right in the slow cooker no browning, no extra dishes, no stress.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Beef Stew:
Set-it-and-forget-it meal minimal prep, maximum flavor
Budget-friendly ingredients you can find anywhere
Ultra-tender beef thanks to low-and-slow cooking
Rich, creamy mushroom gravy without complicated steps
Perfect for meal prep, leftovers, and freezer meals
Family-friendly comfort food that feels homemade
Yield: 6 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 7–8 hours (LOW) or 4–5 hours (HIGH)
Ingredients:
2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1–1½-inch chunks
16 ounces cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
2 cups low-sodium beef broth
1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions:
Add the sliced mushrooms and onions to the bottom of a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker, spreading them into an even layer.
Place the beef stew meat on top of the vegetables.
In a bowl, whisk together the beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
Pour the savory gravy mixture over the beef and vegetables. Gently stir everything together directly in the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on LOW for 7–8 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours, until the beef is melt-in-your-mouth tender.
Stir well, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve hot over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, rice, or baked potatoes, spooning extra gravy on top.
Serving Ideas:
This slow cooker beef and mushroom stew pairs beautifully with:
Creamy mashed potatoes
Buttered egg noodles
Steamed green beans or roasted carrots
Crusty bread or dinner rolls for soaking up the gravy
Leftovers are fantastic the next day over rice or tucked into baked potatoes for an easy lunch.
Tips, Variations & Storage:
Extra creamy: Stir in ¼–½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt at the end for a stroganoff-style twist
More veggies: Add carrots or frozen peas during the last 30 minutes
Thicker gravy: Remove the lid for the last 20–30 minutes or add a cornstarch slurry
Freezer-friendly: Cool completely and freeze for up to 3 months
