Slow-Cooker Bourbon Gravy Ribeye Bites with Asparagus Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For the most tender beef, cook on low rather than high. The longer, gentler cooking time allows the collagen in the meat to break down fully.

If you're in a hurry, high heat works, but the texture may be slightly less tender. Also, consider cutting the beef into uniform cubes so they cook evenly.

To enhance the bourbon flavor, add an extra splash of bourbon to the gravy before serving. Be sure to use a bourbon you enjoy drinking, as its flavor will concentrate during cooking.

If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 15 minutes of cooking.

Variations

• Add Mushrooms: Sauté 8 oz of sliced cremini mushrooms in butter until golden, then add them to the slow cooker with the beef. This boosts the mushroom flavor and adds texture to the gravy.
• Use Chicken: Substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the ribeye. Cook on low for 4 hours or until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). The gravy pairs well with chicken's milder flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the slow cooker for a spicy twist. The heat cuts through the richness of the gravy.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the beef with portobello mushroom caps, sliced thick. Use vegetable-based mushroom gravy and omit the butter or use a plant-based alternative. Cook on low for 2 to 3 hours.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheat

Reheat gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until hot. Add a splash of broth if needed.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if the gravy has thickened too much.

This recipe can be assembled the night before. Place all the ingredients in the slow cooker insert, cover, and refrigerate overnight.

In the morning, place the insert in the slow cooker and cook as directed. You may need to add 30 minutes to the cooking time since you're starting from cold.

Serving ideas

Serve the bourbon gravy ribeye bites over steamed white rice, which soaks up the rich sauce beautifully.

For a lower-carb option, serve over cauliflower rice or alongside crusty bread to mop up the gravy. The dish also pairs well with a simple green salad to balance the richness.

For a complete meal, add a side of roasted potatoes or a crusty baguette. The gravy is the star, so make sure to spoon plenty over each serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired, though the dish is delicious as is. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner at home.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow-Cooker Bourbon Gravy Ribeye Bites with Asparagus

Prep 10 minCook 4 hRest 3 minTotal 4 h 13 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 2 lb well-marbled ribeye steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 bunch fresh asparagus spears, trimmed
• 6 cloves garlic, smashed
• 1 1/2 cups mushroom-bourbon gravy (jarred or homemade)
• 4 tbsp salted butter, cut into pats
• Cooked white rice, for serving

Instructions

1. Place the cubed ribeye steak in the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker. Lay the asparagus spears and smashed garlic cloves over the beef. Pour the mushroom-bourbon gravy over everything, then dot with the butter pats.
2. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until the beef is tender and the asparagus is fork-tender. Let it rest for 3 minutes before slicing.
3. After the cooking time, check that the beef has reached an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C) using an instant-read thermometer. Let the meat rest for at least 3 minutes before serving.
4. Spoon the cooked white rice onto plates or a serving platter. Ladle the beef, asparagus, and bourbon gravy over the rice.

Contains: milk, gluten, sulfites

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

620

Protein

45 g

Carbohydrates

25 g

Fat

38 g

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