Simple Slow Cooker Hamburger Gravy and Potatoes Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

To add depth to the flavor, you can sauté the diced onions in a separate pan until golden brown before adding them to the slow cooker, although this is optional.

Adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of dried thyme can also enhance the savory notes of the brown gravy. Experiment with these additions once you have mastered the base recipe to suit your personal taste preferences.

If you find that the gravy is not as thick as you would like, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the slow cooker during the last twenty minutes of cooking. This simple technique ensures a perfectly thickened gravy that clings to the potatoes and beef, providing a professional finish to this simple meal.

Variations

• Mushroom Variation: Add one cup of sliced cremini mushrooms during the assembly phase. The mushrooms will absorb the beef juices and provide an earthy flavor that complements the brown gravy perfectly.
• Vegetable Medley: Include sliced carrots or celery along with the potatoes. These vegetables add sweetness and texture to the dish, making it even more robust and filling without changing the cooking time.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Reheat

Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove over medium heat until steaming hot.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Ensure the food cools to room temperature within two hours of cooking before placing it in the fridge.

When reheating, use a saucepan on the stove over medium-low heat or a microwave-safe dish, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Add a splash of water if the gravy has thickened too much during storage.

You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time by peeling and chopping the potatoes and storing them in a bowl of cold water in the refrigerator to prevent browning. Combine the dry gravy mix and broth, but keep them separate until you are ready to assemble the slow cooker. This prep work allows you to assemble the entire dish in minutes when you are ready to start cooking.

Serving ideas

Serve this dish hot, straight from the slow cooker into shallow bowls. The combination of tender beef and soft potatoes makes it a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs well with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the gravy.

The warm, savory nature of the meal makes it perfect for serving during cooler weather or whenever you need a comforting dinner.

Because the dish is quite hearty, smaller portions are often sufficient. Consider garnishing each serving with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives to add a pop of color and freshness.

The gravy is the highlight of the dish, so ensure everyone gets a generous ladleful over their potatoes and beef to enjoy the full depth of flavor developed during the long, slow cooking process.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Simple Slow Cooker Hamburger Gravy and Potatoes

Prep 10 minCook 4 hRest 5 minTotal 4 h 15 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 3 cups peeled potatoes
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1 packet brown gravy seasoning mix
• 1 1/2 cups beef broth

Instructions

1. Place the raw ground beef into the bottom of the slow cooker insert. Break the meat into smaller pieces using your hands or a spoon to ensure even cooking.
2. Add the peeled potatoes and diced onion on top of the ground beef. Sprinkle the brown gravy seasoning mix evenly over the vegetables.
3. Pour the beef broth over the ingredients in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or until the beef reaches 160°F (71°C) and the potatoes are fork-tender.

Contains: gluten, milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

450

Protein

25 g

Carbohydrates

35 g

Fat

22 g

Fiber

3 g

Sugar

2 g

Sodium

850 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.