Super Easy Crockpot Meal - Easy Weeknight Dinner
SUPER EASY CROCKPOT MEAL - Easy Weeknight Dinner is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 350 calories per serving. Recipe by Amy Darley on YouTube.
Prep: 10 min | Cook: 4 hrs 5 min | Total: 4 hrs 30 min
Cost: $12.56 total, $3.14 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 lb Stew Meat (cut into bite‑size cubes; trim excess fat)
- 1 packet Onion Soup Mix (dry seasoning packet)
- 1 packet Au Jus Mix (dry beef flavoring packet)
- 2 cup Beef Broth (low‑sodium canned broth (about 1 14‑oz can))
Instructions
Prepare the Meat
Trim any excess fat from the stew meat and cut it into uniform bite‑size cubes.
Time: PT5M
Add Meat to Crock Pot
Place the cubed stew meat into the bottom of the crock pot.
Time: PT1M
Add Onion Soup Mix
Open the packet of onion soup mix and sprinkle it over the meat.
Time: PT30S
Add Au Jus Mix
Open the au jus packet and add it to the crock pot.
Time: PT30S
Pour in Beef Broth
Measure 2 cups of beef broth (about one 14‑oz can) and pour it over the meat and seasonings.
Time: PT1M
Stir and Ensure Coverage
Give everything a quick stir so the seasonings coat the meat and the broth covers most of the pieces.
Time: PT1M
Cook
Cover the crock pot and set it to HIGH for 4 hours (or LOW for 6‑8 hours) until the meat is fork‑tender.
Time: PT4H
Check Tenderness
After the cooking time, test a piece of meat with a fork; it should shred easily. If not, cook an additional 30 minutes.
Time: PT5M
Serve
Spoon the beef and sauce onto plates and serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or a Caesar salad.
Time: PT5M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 350
- Protein
- 30 g
- Carbohydrates
- 10 g
- Fat
- 15 g
- Fiber
- 0 g
Dietary info: Gluten-Free (use gluten‑free mixes), Dairy-Free, High-Protein
Allergens: None (check broth for soy or gluten if using standard mixes)
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Stew Meat: Chuck roast, Beef brisket, Beef sirloin
- Instead of Onion Soup Mix: Dry onion soup base, Onion powder + beef bouillon
- Instead of Au Jus Mix: Beef bouillon cube, Beef base
- Instead of Beef Broth: Homemade beef stock, Vegetable broth
Equipment Needed
- Crock Pot (Slow Cooker)
- Cutting Board
- Chef's Knife
- Measuring Cup
- Large Spoon
- Serving Dish
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Ensure the meat is fully submerged in broth to prevent drying out.
- Do not lift the lid during the cooking period.
- Check meat tenderness before serving and adjust cooking time if needed.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Sear the beef cubes in a hot skillet before adding to the crock pot for deeper flavor.
- Add a sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary during the last 30 minutes for aromatic brightness.
- Use low‑sodium broth to avoid an overly salty finished dish.
Troubleshooting
Meat is still tough after the suggested cooking time.
Continue cooking on LOW for another 30‑45 minutes or cut the meat into smaller pieces before cooking.
Sauce is too watery.
Remove the lid for the last 15‑20 minutes to reduce, or stir in a slurry of 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tsp cold water.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3‑4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in portion‑sized bags or containers for up to 3 months.
Room temperature: Do not store at room temperature; refrigerate promptly.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Combine meat, seasonings, and broth in the crock pot the night before, cover, and refrigerate; cook the next day.
- Freeze the uncooked mixture in a freezer‑safe bag; thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Easy Crock Pot Beef with Onion Soup Mix in American comfort food cuisine?
Slow‑cooker beef dishes became popular in the United States during the 1970s as families sought convenient, hands‑off meals. Using pantry staples like onion soup mix and au jus packets reflects the American tradition of turning inexpensive ingredients into hearty, comforting meals.
What are the traditional regional variations of beef stew in American cuisine?
In the Midwest, beef stew often includes root vegetables and a thickened flour‑based broth, while in the South, it may feature tomatoes and Cajun spices. The Easy Crock Pot version simplifies the classic stew by using onion soup and au jus mixes for quick flavor.
What occasions or celebrations is Easy Crock Pot Beef with Onion Soup Mix traditionally associated with in American families?
This dish is a go‑to for busy weeknight dinners, potlucks, and family gatherings because it can be set and forgotten while guests arrive. Its comforting flavor also makes it popular for casual holiday meals like Thanksgiving leftovers or Christmas Eve.
What other American side dishes pair well with Easy Crock Pot Beef with Onion Soup Mix?
Mashed potatoes, buttered rice, roasted green beans, or a crisp Caesar salad complement the rich beef. A warm cornbread or crusty dinner roll also works well to soak up the sauce.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Easy Crock Pot Beef with Onion Soup Mix?
Common errors include lifting the lid too often, which extends cooking time, and not cutting the meat into uniform pieces, leading to uneven tenderness. Also, adding too much broth can make the sauce watery.
Why does this recipe use a packet of au jus mix instead of plain beef broth for flavor?
The au jus mix adds concentrated beef aromatics and a slightly sweet depth that plain broth alone doesn’t provide, giving the dish a richer, restaurant‑style flavor without extra effort.
Can I make Easy Crock Pot Beef with Onion Soup Mix ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes. Cook the beef, let it cool, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for 2‑3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
What texture and appearance should I look for when the Easy Crock Pot Beef is done cooking?
The beef should be fork‑tender and easily shred with a fork. The sauce should be glossy, slightly thickened, and coat the meat without pooling excessively.
What does the YouTube channel Amy Darley specialize in?
The YouTube channel Amy Darley focuses on simple, family‑friendly recipes that require minimal ingredients and equipment, often highlighting one‑pot or slow‑cooker meals for busy home cooks.
How does the YouTube channel Amy Darley's approach to American comfort food differ from other cooking channels?
Amy Darley emphasizes ultra‑easy, low‑prep dishes using pantry staples and a relaxed, conversational style, whereas many other channels may focus on elaborate techniques or gourmet presentations.
Last updated: August 31, 2026
