Slow Cooker Beef And Rice

Name: Slow Cooker Beef And Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 h
Total time: 5 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into cubes; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups beef broth; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained; 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Easy Everyday Cooking

I love a good slow cooker recipe, especially one that comes together with minimal effort and maximum flavor. This Slow Cooker Beef and Rice is a comforting dish that melds juicy beef with tender rice in a rich sauce. In just a few hours, the aromas fill the house, making it feel warm and inviting. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, and the leftovers are just as delicious, making this dish a real winner in our home. I can't wait to share it with you!

Created by

Madison Cole

Last updated on 2026-02-01T15:22:35.115Z

When I first tried this Slow Cooker Beef and Rice recipe, I knew it was going to be a staple in my kitchen. The combination of tender beef, perfectly cooked rice, and rich spices created a mouthwatering experience that kept me coming back for more. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing me to prep other meals or enjoy some time with my family while the flavors develop.

One of my favorite tips is to add a splash of soy sauce before serving—it enhances the umami flavor and gives that extra depth I crave. Trust me; it’s a simple addition that makes all the difference! I always look forward to the cozy dinners this recipe brings.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Hearty and filling with a perfect balance of flavors
Hands-off cooking makes it ideal for busy days
Easy cleanup, with everything made in one pot

The Importance of Beef Chuck

Using beef chuck roast is key to achieving a tender and flavorful dish. The marbled fat within the chuck roast breaks down during the long cooking time in the slow cooker, resulting in juicy, melt-in-your-mouth beef. Avoid using lean cuts, as they tend to dry out and lose flavor. If you want to save a bit, you may substitute beef stew meat; just make sure it has some fat content for optimal results.

To ensure the best flavor, consider browning the beef cubes before adding them to the slow cooker. This step, while optional, adds caramelization and depth to the dish. Use a hot skillet and sear the meat until it develops a golden crust, then transfer it to the slow cooker with the other ingredients.

Rice Tips for Optimal Texture

Choosing long-grain white rice is essential for maintaining the perfect texture in this recipe. Long-grain rice tends to remain fluffy and separate compared to shorter grains that may clump together. Be sure not to over-stir the mixture after adding the rice, as this can lead to a gummy texture. Just give it a gentle stir to incorporate.

If you’re interested in variations, try using brown rice; however, keep in mind that you will need to increase the cooking time. Brown rice typically requires about 40-45 minutes longer than white rice, so be prepared to adjust the cooking time to ensure it bites perfectly.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

This Slow Cooker Beef and Rice is satisfying on its own, but pairing it with sides can enhance your meal further. I recommend serving it with steamed broccoli or a fresh garden salad to balance out the richness. For an extra layer of flavor, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the dish beautifully.

For make-ahead or storage, this dish keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave. Adding a splash of broth while reheating will keep the rice moist and the flavors vibrant.

Ingredients

For the Beef and Rice

2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into cubes
1 cup long-grain white rice
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups beef broth
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In a slow cooker, add the cubed beef chuck roast, diced onion, and minced garlic.

Add the Liquids and Seasonings

Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

Cook the Beef

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for about 5 hours, until the beef is tender.

Add the Rice

Stir in the long-grain rice, recover, and cook for an additional 30 minutes, or until the rice is fluffy.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy this rich, satisfying dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try searing the beef cubes in a hot skillet before adding them to the slow cooker. This step enhances the richness of the dish, bringing out deeper flavors.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that the beef is tough after cooking, it may need more time. Slow cookers can vary, and it's not uncommon for the beef to require an additional hour for tenderness. Additionally, ensure that you're cooking on the low setting, as high heat can lead to uneven cooking.

In contrast, if your dish seems too watery after adding the rice, it may be due to excess liquid from the tomatoes. Consider reducing the broth slightly, or use a slotted method to drain some of the liquid before serving. A starchier side dish, such as mashed potatoes, can help to absorb the extra sauce if needed.

Ingredient Variations

Feel free to customize the recipe by adding in veggies such as bell peppers, carrots, or peas for added nutrition and flavor. Just chop the vegetables into uniform sizes and add them at the same time as the rice to ensure they cook through without becoming mushy.

If you want to adapt the dish for a different flavor profile, consider experimenting with spices. Adding cumin or cayenne can provide a southwestern twist, while adding rosemary or thyme can lighten the flavor for a more herbal note. Adjust the spices to suit your taste and make the dish your own!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice typically requires a longer cooking duration.

→ Can I make this dish with other types of meat?

Absolutely! Pork or chicken can also work well in this recipe; just be mindful of adjusting the cooking times accordingly.

→ What can I serve with Slow Cooker Beef and Rice?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.