Slow Cooker 3-Ingredient Rice and Gravy
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
For the Beef & Gravy:
2 lbs (900 g) beef stew meat (or chuck roast cut into chunks)
2 (10.5 oz) cans condensed beef gravy (or about 2½–3 cups prepared gravy)
1/4 cup water (optional, only if gravy is very thick)
For the Rice:
2 cups uncooked long-grain white rice
4 cups water
1/2 teaspoon salt (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Trim any large excess fat from the beef if needed
Cut into bite-sized chunks (if not already done)
Step 2: Add to Slow Cooker
Place beef in the bottom of a 4–6 quart slow cooker
Pour gravy evenly over the meat
Add a little water only if the gravy is very thick
Gently stir so all pieces are coated
Step 3: Slow Cook
Cover with lid and cook:
LOW: 7–8 hours (best flavor & tenderness)
HIGH: 3½–4 hours
The beef is ready when:
it’s fork-tender
gravy is rich and bubbling
If gravy is too thin:
Remove lid for last 20–30 minutes on HIGH to thicken
Step 4: Cook the Rice
(Start about 25–30 minutes before serving)
Rinse rice under cold water until water runs mostly clear
In a pot, bring 4 cups water + salt to a boil
Add rice and stir once
Reduce heat to low and cover tightly
Simmer for 15–18 minutes
Remove from heat and let sit (covered) for 5 minutes
Fluff with a fork
Step 5: Assemble & Serve
Spoon a generous layer of hot rice onto each plate
Ladle beef and plenty of thick gravy over the top
Let the gravy soak into the rice and pool around it
Serve immediately while hot and comforting
Serving Suggestions
Steamed broccoli or green beans
Simple side salad
Bread, biscuits, or rolls for dipping
Helpful Tips
Keep it simple—this recipe shines with just a few ingredients
Don’t lift the slow cooker lid often (it slows cooking)
For extra richness, stir in a splash of milk or cream at the end
Leftovers taste even better the next day
Easy Variations
Swap beef for meatballs (kid-friendly option)
Use mushroom gravy for a different flavor
Add sliced onions or mushrooms for extra depth
This is one of those old-school, stick-to-your-ribs meals—cheap, filling, and full of comfort
