Slow Cooker Beef and Mushroom Gravy Stew
If you love rich, cozy dinners that practically cook themselves, this Slow Cooker Beef and Mushroom Gravy Stew is about to become a weeknight favorite. Made with tender beef, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy savory gravy, this easy crockpot recipe delivers deep homemade flavor with very little effort. Just stir one simple mixture directly in the slow cooker, set it, and come back to a comforting family-style meal.
Inspired by classic Midwestern comfort food, this slow cooker beef stew with mushroom gravy tastes like it simmered all day even when your schedule is packed.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Beef & Mushroom Stew:
Perfect set-and-forget crockpot dinner for busy days
Only 9 simple ingredients
Rich savory gravy packed with flavor
Budget-friendly comfort food
Great for meal prep and freezer meals
This hearty dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice, making it one of those easy slow cooker beef recipes you’ll want on repeat.
Ingredients (Serves 6):
2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into chunks
16 ounces cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
2 cups low-sodium beef broth
1 (10.5-oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
Add sliced mushrooms and onions to the bottom of a 5–6 quart slow cooker and spread evenly.
Place the beef stew meat over the vegetables.
In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Pour the savory mixture over the beef and vegetables. Gently stir right in the slow cooker so everything is coated in the creamy gravy.
Cover and cook:
LOW for 7–8 hours
HIGH for 4–5 hours
The beef should be fork-tender and the gravy rich and thick.
Stir well, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve hot over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice.
Benefits of This Easy Crockpot Beef Recipe:
Hands-off cooking: No searing or extra pans needed.
Family-friendly comfort food: Creamy gravy and tender beef make it kid-approved.
Meal prep ready: Stores and reheats beautifully for quick lunches.
Customizable: Add carrots, peas, or extra herbs to suit your taste.
If you run a busy kitchen like many home cooks, recipes like this slow cooker beef and mushroom gravy stew help you create homemade meals without spending hours cooking.
Variations & Helpful Tips:
For a stroganoff-style twist, stir in ¼–½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt at the end.
Add chopped carrots or peas for more vegetables.
Want thicker gravy? Remove the lid during the last 30 minutes or add a cornstarch slurry.
Optional: Brown the beef first for deeper flavor, but it’s not required.
Serving Ideas:
Serve this hearty slow cooker stew with:
Fluffy mashed potatoes
Egg noodles
Steamed rice
Crusty bread or dinner rolls
Roasted carrots or green beans for balance
