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

  1. Prepare the Meat

    Trim any excess fat from the stew meat and cut it into uniform bite‑size cubes.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Add Meat to Crock Pot

    Place the cubed stew meat into the bottom of the crock pot.

    Time: PT1M

  3. Add Onion Soup Mix

    Open the packet of onion soup mix and sprinkle it over the meat.

    Time: PT30S

  4. Add Au Jus Mix

    Open the au jus packet and add it to the crock pot.

    Time: PT30S

  5. 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

  6. 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

  7. 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

  8. 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

  9. 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)

Last updated: April 17, 2026

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SUPER EASY CROCKPOT MEAL - Easy Weeknight Dinner

Recipe by Amy Darley

A super‑simple, four‑ingredient slow‑cooker beef dish that turns tough stew meat into melt‑in‑your‑mouth tender beef. Cook it on high for 4 hours (or low for 6‑8) and serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad for a comforting family dinner.

EasyAmericanServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
13m
Prep
4h 5m
Cook
31m
Cleanup
4h 49m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$12.56
Total cost
$3.14
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • 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.

Safety Warnings

  • Handle raw beef with clean hands and sanitize all surfaces after use.
  • Make sure the beef reaches an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C).
  • The crock pot lid and contents will be hot; use oven mitts when removing the lid.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Easy Crock Pot Beef with Onion Soup Mix in American comfort food cuisine?

A

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.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of beef stew in American cuisine?

A

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.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is Easy Crock Pot Beef with Onion Soup Mix traditionally associated with in American families?

A

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.

cultural
Q

What other American side dishes pair well with Easy Crock Pot Beef with Onion Soup Mix?

A

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.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Easy Crock Pot Beef with Onion Soup Mix?

A

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.

technical
Q

Why does this recipe use a packet of au jus mix instead of plain beef broth for flavor?

A

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.

technical
Q

Can I make Easy Crock Pot Beef with Onion Soup Mix ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

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.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when the Easy Crock Pot Beef is done cooking?

A

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.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Amy Darley specialize in?

A

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.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Amy Darley's approach to American comfort food differ from other cooking channels?

A

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.

channel

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SUPER EASY CROCKPOT MEAL - Easy Weeknight Dinner