Save This comforting Slow Cooker Beef and Mushroom Gravy over Buttery Egg Noodles is my solution for when I crave a deeply savory, stick-to-your-ribs meal that comes together with almost no effort. Thanks to the magic of the slow cooker, you get meltingly tender chunks of beef, an earthy richness from mushrooms, and plenty of velvety gravy, all spooned over silky egg noodles tossed with butter. It is the kind of dinner that turns any cold evening into something a bit cozier.
I first threw this together on a rainy Sunday when I wanted comfort but could not bear to stand at the stove. My husband went back for thirds and both kids happily devoured dinner without complaint which is the real win.
Ingredients
- Beef stew meat: choose a well-marbled cut like chuck roast for maximum tenderness
- Mushrooms: cremini or baby bella give a deep earthy flavor choose mushrooms that are firm and dry
- Onion: yellow or sweet onions bring a subtle sweetness to the gravy
- Garlic: adds aroma and a punch of savory depth mince fresh cloves for best flavor
- Beef broth: forms the luscious gravy use low-sodium for easier control of seasoning
- Worcestershire sauce: gives umami richness check the label for real anchovy if you want extra depth
- Tomato paste: lends extra body and color to the sauce
- Cornstarch: thickens the gravy to that perfect silky consistency ensure it is fully dissolved to avoid lumps
- Butter: adds richness especially to finish the egg noodles use high quality for the best finish
- Egg noodles: classic broad or extra wide are ideal look for ones with a shorter cook time for maximum silkiness
- Salt and pepper: essential for bringing all flavors together freshly cracked is best
Instructions
- Brown the Beef:
- Pat beef chunks dry with paper towels then season generously with salt and pepper. Working in batches in a large skillet over medium-high heat sear the beef until a deep brown crust forms on all sides about five to six minutes per batch. This builds the foundational flavor for the entire dish. As each batch is browned transfer beef directly to the slow cooker.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet over medium heat add a drizzle of oil if needed then combine diced onions and mushrooms. Stir and cook for about eight minutes allowing mushrooms to release their moisture and onions to become golden and soft. Add minced garlic and quickly stir for about a minute until fragrant but not burned. Scrape up any browned bits from the pan and pour the entire mixture into the slow cooker with the beef.
- Layer the Flavorings:
- Into the slow cooker add tomato paste Worcestershire sauce and beef broth. Stir to combine all the layers of flavor making sure the tomato paste is well dissolved into the broth.
- Slow Cook to Perfection:
- Cover and set your slow cooker on low for seven to eight hours or on high for about four hours. The beef should shred easily with a fork and mushrooms should be meltingly tender.
- Thicken the Gravy:
- About thirty minutes before serving in a small bowl whisk cornstarch with a few tablespoons of cold water to make a smooth slurry. Stir this mixture into the hot gravy inside the slow cooker making sure it is fully mixed in. Allow to continue cooking uncovered for twenty to thirty minutes until the gravy has thickened to your liking.
- Cook and Butter the Egg Noodles:
- Near dinnertime bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook egg noodles according to package instructions until just tender. Drain and return to the pot add butter and a pinch of salt and toss gently until the noodles are glossy and coated.
- Serve Generously:
- Pile buttery egg noodles into bowls and generously spoon the beef and mushroom gravy on top. Finish with cracked black pepper and fresh herbs if desired for a pop of color.
Save My favorite part is the way the mushrooms soak up beefy flavors and join with silky gravy. Every time I make this the aroma alone brings my kids running to the kitchen and reminds me of cozy family gatherings growing up.
Storage Tips
Leftovers should be cooled completely before transferring to airtight containers. They keep well in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently over medium heat adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the gravy so it stays creamy and luxurious.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are out of beef stew meat you can use boneless short ribs or brisket trimmed and cut into large chunks. For extra depth swap some of the beef broth for a half cup of red wine. If you are vegetarian or want to lighten things up use seitan or a meaty mushroom blend in place of beef and swap beef broth for mushroom broth.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is a full meal on its own but I love adding a crisp green salad and a loaf of warm crusty bread to mop up the gravy. You can also top with a spoonful of sour cream or a sprinkle of chives for a fresh bright finish.
Cultural and Historical Context
Dishes like beef tips with rich gravy are a staple across Europe and North America. Slow cooking tougher cuts in a flavorful sauce is a tradition born from resourcefulness making the most of affordable ingredients to create meals that feed a crowd with warmth and hospitality.
Seasonal Adaptations
For fall and winter feel free to amp up the comfort with a splash of heavy cream or extra mushrooms. In spring add peas or baby spinach for fresh color. If you are lucky enough to have wild mushrooms use a mix for an elevated flavor.
Extra Recipe Notes
Choose a well-marbling beef cut for best results
Always brown meat before slow cooking to lock in flavor
Let the slow cooker run the full time for beef that falls apart with a fork
Success Stories
Friends have told me this is their new favorite Sunday supper because the slow cooker does all the work and everyone ends up happy and full. A neighbor swapped in venison and said it was just as delicious. One reader makes extra gravy and freezes it in small portions for easy weeknight dinners.
Freezer Meal Conversion
Portion cooled beef and gravy mixture into zip top freezer bags remove as much air as possible and lay flat to freeze. To use thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a saucepan while boiling fresh noodles separately. This way a hearty meal is always within reach.
Save This recipe is pure comfort that rewards patience with tender bites and rich flavor. With a few smart tips you will always end up with a cozy dinner and happy faces around the table.
Recipe Help & FAQs
- → What cut of beef works best?
Chuck roast or stew meat are ideal choices as they become very tender during long, slow cooking.
- → Can I use different mushrooms?
Yes, cremini, button, or even portobello mushrooms add depth and flavor to the gravy.
- → How do I get silky gravy?
Mix cornstarch or flour into the cooking liquid at the end, and cook until thickened for a smooth gravy.
- → Should the noodles be cooked separately?
Yes, boil the egg noodles before serving and toss with butter for added richness.
- → What herbs complement this dish?
Fresh parsley, thyme, or even chives sprinkled on top round out the flavors beautifully.
- → Is slow cooker required?
While ideal for tender results, you can use a Dutch oven or stovetop on low for similar texture.