Why You’ll Love This Braised Steak and Onions Recipe
If you’re after a meal that’s effortless, delicious, and guaranteed to satisfy, this braised steak and onions recipe ticks all the boxes. It’s rich, hearty, and full of deep, savoury flavours, making it the perfect go-to for a comforting dinner. Plus, it’s ideal for busy days when you need a meal that practically cooks itself.
- Unbelievably tender beef – Slow cooking turns the steak into melt-in-your-mouth perfection.
- Set-and-forget – Chuck everything in the slow cooker, walk away, and let the magic happen.
- Budget-friendly – Uses affordable cuts of beef that transform into something amazing.
- Packed with flavour – The combination of onions, Worcestershire sauce, and balsamic vinegar creates a rich, deep gravy that’s absolutely irresistible.
- Perfect for meal prep – Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers all week.
The Best Cut of Beef for Braised Steak and Onions
Choosing the right cut of beef is the key to achieving that perfect, fall-apart texture in braised steak and onions. You need a cut that thrives with slow cooking—something with plenty of connective tissue that will break down beautifully over time. Here are the best options:
Chuck steak – The ultimate choice! Affordable, well-marbled, and turns ridiculously tender.
Blade steak – A slightly leaner option but still great for slow cooking.
Gravy beef – Full of flavour, but it does take a little longer to break down.
Avoid lean cuts like eye fillet or sirloin—these will dry out and won’t have that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
The Secret to a Next-Level Gravy
A great braised steak and onions recipe isn’t just about the beef—it’s also about that rich, deeply flavoured gravy. This is what ties the whole dish together, creating a sauce that’s silky, savoury, and absolutely irresistible. The key is using the right combination of ingredients to build layers of flavour.
Onions, onions, onions – Don’t skimp! They break down into the sauce, adding a deep sweetness.
Tomato paste – Adds richness and depth of flavour.
Worcestershire sauce – Brings a savoury, slightly tangy kick.
Balsamic vinegar – Balances the flavours with a little sweetness and acidity.
Beef stock powder – Intensifies the umami goodness.
And don’t forget the cornflour slurry at the end—it thickens the gravy to silky perfection!
Tips for the Best Braised Steak and Onions
Want to take your braised steak and onions to the next level? A few simple tricks can make all the difference, turning a great meal into an absolute showstopper. Whether it’s enhancing the depth of flavour, getting the perfect texture, or thickening the gravy just right, these tips will help you nail it every time.
Sear the beef first – If you have time, browning the steak in a hot pan before adding it to the slow cooker adds an extra layer of flavour.
Layer it right – Always put the onions at the bottom of the slow cooker so they soften properly and release their juices.
Cook low and slow – The longer, the better! Cooking on low for 8 hours gives the best texture.
Make it richer – For an extra depth of flavour, add a splash of red wine with the stock.
Want a thicker gravy? – If the sauce isn’t thick enough after adding the cornflour, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes to let it reduce.
How to Serve Braised Steak and Onions
This dish is pure comfort food, so you want to pair it with sides that soak up all that delicious gravy! Whether you’re after something classic or a little different, there are plenty of great options to complete your meal.
- Creamy mashed potatoes – The ultimate pairing! Fluffy, buttery mash soaks up the rich gravy perfectly.
- Crusty bread or bread rolls – Perfect for mopping up every last drop.
- Steamed vegetables – Keep it classic with carrots, beans, or peas.
- Rice – If you prefer, spoon the braised steak over a bowl of rice for a hearty meal.
- Hot chips – Trust me, braised steak and onions over crispy hot chips is next-level delicious!
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
One of the best things about braised steak and onions is that it tastes even better the next day! The flavours deepen, making it an ideal dish for meal prep or freezing for later. Here’s how to store and reheat it properly.
Fridge – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer – Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheat – Warm on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. If the gravy is too thick, add a splash of water or stock to loosen it up.
Other Comfort Food Recipes to Try
If you love braised steak and onions, you’re going to want to try these other slow-cooked favourites! Each one is packed with flavour and perfect for cosy nights in.
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Braised steak and onions
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
Braised Steak and Onions That Melts in Your Mouth!
There’s nothing better than a hearty slow-cooked meal, and this braised steak and onions is pure comfort food! The beef is so tender it falls apart, and the rich, savoury gravy is next-level. Serve it over creamy mashed potatoes with steamed vegetables for the ultimate winter warmer.
Ingredients
- 1kg chuck steak, diced
- 7 onions, sliced
- 2 cups water
- 2 tbsp stock powder
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- 3 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Big pinch of salt
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tbsp cornflour, dissolved in water
Instructions
- Place everything in your slow cooker except the onions and steak.
- Give it a whisk to combine.
- Add the onions first, then the steak.
- Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
- Stir through the cornflour mix 30 minutes before the end to thicken.
- Shred the beef with two forks and serve with mashed potatoes and vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 8h
- Category: Recipes
- Method: slow cooker
- Cuisine: Australian
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Cook on high pressure for 45 minutes, then let it naturally release for 10 minutes.
Absolutely! Lamb or pork shoulder would work well with the same cooking method.
No worries! Cook in a covered casserole dish in the oven at 160°C for about 3 hours until tender.