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Dinner · Part 3 of 3: Tips & recipe card

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

Slow cooker filled with ribeye bites and baby potatoes in a rich bourbon gravy, topped with butter pats.
Prep
Cook
Total
Serves
4

Tips for success

For the best flavor, choose a high-quality bourbon mushroom gravy from the store, or make your own with beef broth, bourbon, and mushrooms.

The gravy is the backbone of this dish, so do not skimp on it. If you like a stronger bourbon taste, add an extra tablespoon of bourbon to the gravy before pouring it over the meat.

To make the potatoes extra buttery, toss them with a little melted butter and salt before adding them to the slow cooker. You can also add a sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary for an herby note, though the video does not include it.

For a thicker gravy, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Variations

  • Mushroom Swap: Replace the bourbon mushroom gravy with a creamy mushroom gravy and add an extra cup of sliced mushrooms. This version is less boozy and even more mushroom-forward.
  • Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the gravy before pouring it in. The heat complements the rich beef and bourbon flavors.
  • Herb Infusion: Tuck a few sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary into the slow cooker with the other ingredients. Remove the herbs before serving for a subtle earthy note.
  • Vegetable Boost: Add a cup of baby carrots or pearl onions along with the potatoes. They will cook in the gravy and become tender and sweet.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezer
Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat
Reheat gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until hot. Add a splash of beef broth or water if needed to loosen the gravy.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or beef broth if the gravy has thickened too much.

You can assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker insert the night before, cover, and refrigerate. In the morning, place the insert in the slow cooker and cook as directed. If starting from cold, add an extra 30 minutes to the cooking time. This makes it easy to have dinner ready when you get home.

Serving ideas

Serve the ribeye bites and potatoes over steamed white rice to soak up the rich bourbon gravy. The rice balances the savory sauce and makes the meal more substantial.

You can also serve with crusty bread for dipping, or over egg noodles for a different twist. A simple green salad on the side adds freshness.

For a low-carb option, serve the beef and potatoes on their own, or over cauliflower rice. The dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but the gravy is so good you will want something to soak it up.

Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if desired, though the video does not include them. This is a comforting, satisfying dinner that the whole family will enjoy.

Frequently asked questions

Can this recipe be made with a different cut of beef?
Yes, sirloin or chuck steak can be used instead of ribeye. Chuck is more forgiving in the slow cooker, while sirloin may be slightly leaner. Keep the cubes at about 1 inch so they cook evenly. For best results, choose a well-marbled cut and do not overcook.
How long does it take to cook on high?
On HIGH, the dish will be ready in about 2 1/2 to 3 hours. Check the potatoes for tenderness and the beef for fork-tenderness. Cooking times can vary depending on the slow cooker, so start checking at the lower end of the range.
What can be used instead of bourbon mushroom gravy?
Any rich beef gravy can be substituted, or a mixture of 1 cup beef broth, 2 tablespoons bourbon, and 1 cup sliced mushrooms. This will create a similar flavor profile. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
Can this be frozen?
Yes, the cooked dish freezes well for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Why is the beef tough after cooking?
Tough beef is usually the result of overcooking a lean cut or not cooking long enough. Ribeye is naturally tender, but if cooked too long, it can become dry. Use the recommended cooking times and check for fork-tenderness. Also, let the beef rest before serving.
Recipe card

Slow-Cooker Bourbon Gravy Ribeye Bites with Potatoes

Prep 10 minCook 4 hTotal 4 h 10 minServes 4
Slow cooker filled with ribeye bites and baby potatoes in a rich bourbon gravy, topped with butter pats.

Ingredients

  • 2 lb ribeye steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 1/2 lb baby Yukon Gold potatoes, halved
  • 2 tbsp minced garlic
  • 1 jar bourbon mushroom gravy (about 12 oz)
  • 4 tbsp salted butter, cut into pats

Instructions

  1. Place the cubed ribeye bites in the bottom of the slow cooker insert. Scatter the halved baby potatoes over the beef, then sprinkle the minced garlic over everything. Pour the bourbon mushroom gravy evenly over the top, and dot with the butter pats.
  2. Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours, or on HIGH for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, until the beef is tender and the potatoes are fork-tender. The gravy will be bubbling and aromatic. Let it rest for 3 minutes before slicing.
  3. Turn off the slow cooker and let the beef rest for at least 3 minutes. Serve the ribeye bites and potatoes over steamed rice, spooning extra gravy on top.
Contains: milk, gluten, sulfites

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories
780
Protein
45 g
Carbohydrates
30 g
Fat
52 g
Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.
Recipe by Clara Weller (pen name) · Allquickyrecipes · https://recipes.allquickyrecipes.com/slow-cooker-bourbon-gravy-ribeye-bites-with-potatoes/part-3