Easy Braised Beef with Mushrooms Recipe (2024)

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This easy Braised Beef recipe is juicy, tender, and super flavorful. Perfect over your favorite grain or paired alongside roasted veggies!

We partnered with Beef. It’s What’s for Dinner., on behalf of the Beef Checkoff, to show you the ins and outs of braised Beef. Grab your Dutch oven and let’s get to it!

Easy Braised Beef with Mushrooms Recipe (1)

Easy braised Beef with mushrooms is one of my all-time favorite comfort foods. Whenever I need a meal that feels like a hug, I know I can grab my Dutch oven and make some no-fuss magic. What’s better? This recipe is super kid-friendly and perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to gourmet tailgating to dinner parties.

Whether you’re looking for an interesting way to use Beef or trying to stretch your dollar as far as it can go, braising is such a foolproof cooking method. Braising can turn any cut of Beef into a tender, melt-in-your- mouth experience.

What Kind of Beef is Best for Braising?

The best Beef for braising are large cuts like Chuck Roast or Brisket. Why? The low and slow process helps to break down and tenderize even the most massive cuts. Alternatively, you could also use bone-in cuts like Oxtail or Beef Short Ribs.

How to Make Braised Beef with Mushrooms

Making braised Beef with mushrooms only takes a little bit of prep and patience. Find a quick rundown of the recipe here before you dive in.

  • Trim the Beef & Prep the Veggies: Using a sharp knife, trim the Beef of any excess fat and cut it into 3-inch pieces. Next, chop up the onions and mushrooms.
  • Brown the Beef: In a Dutch oven or other oven-safe pot, brown the Beef pieces on all sides over medium-high heat. Remove the Beef and set it aside.
  • Cook the Veggies: In the beef drippings, sauté the veggies until they turn brown. Add the Beef back into the pan and season with salt, cumin, and black pepper. Next, add in the bay leaves and beef stock or bone broth.
  • Bake in the Oven: In an oven preheated to 375°F, braise the Beef for about 90 minutes or until it’s fork tender. Serve immediately with your favorite side dish and enjoy!
Easy Braised Beef with Mushrooms Recipe (2)
Easy Braised Beef with Mushrooms Recipe (3)
Easy Braised Beef with Mushrooms Recipe (4)
Easy Braised Beef with Mushrooms Recipe (5)

Tips & Tricks

Here you’ll find the top tips and tricks to help you make the best braised Beef on the planet.

  • Brown the Beef. This step might feel tedious, but it’s worth its weight in gold. Browning the Beef not only gives it so much texture, but it also releases drippings into the pan that will flavor the veggies and broth.
  • Add your favorite veggies. Braised Beef is super versatile. Feel free to add in your favorites for a well-rounded meal. Celery, carrots, potatoes, and garlic clove are all wonderful options.
  • Optionally add in a splash of red wine. After you brown the Beef, add in a splash of wine and cook it down until it shrinks in half. This will add a velvety rich flavor to the braised Beef (think: beef bourguignon).
  • Add in some fresh herbs. To deepen the flavor, add in some fresh thyme or oregano.

How to Cook Braised Beef in a Slow Cooker

Looking to set it and forget it? Feel free to whip up braised Beef with mushrooms in your slow cooker. Below, find a step-by-step guide on how to do it.

  • Brown the Beef & Sauté the Veggies: In a skillet, brown the beef and veggies as directed. Next, transfer them to the bottom of the slow cooker pot.
  • Add the Rest of the Ingredients: Next, simply add in the remainder of the ingredients right on top of the Beef and veggies. Give the ingredients a good stir.
  • Cook on High: Turn the slow cooker to the high setting and cook for 4-6 hours, or until the Beef is fork tender. Enjoy!

Pressure Cooker Hack: You can also whip this recipe up in your pressure cooker. Simply brown the Beef and veggies on the Sauté Setting and add in the rest of the ingredients right on top. Turn on the Soup Setting and let the pressure cooker work its magic!

Easy Braised Beef with Mushrooms Recipe (6)

What Do You Eat Braised Beef With?

Perhaps one of the best things about braised Beef is just how versatile it is. You can pair it with some veggies for a low-carb meal (marinated tomatoes are such an amazing, tangy pairing!), or smother it over quinoa, creamy mashed potatoes, or some steamed white rice. Another awesome hack is using the leftovers for Philly cheesesteak sandwiches. YUM!

Easy Braised Beef with Mushrooms Recipe (7)

Storing Leftover Braised Beef

Braised Beef is the perfect candidate for meal prep. Super versatile, it can be used in plenty of different ways throughout the week. Whether you have leftovers or want to freeze some away for a rainy day, here are a couple of different ways to store braised Beef.

  • Refrigerator: If you think you’ll eat the braised Beef within a week, feel free to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The container will keep the Beef from soaking up any lingering smells in your fridge, while also allowing it to continue developing its flavor.
  • Freezer: If you’d like to keep braised Beef on hand for up to 3 months, freeze it in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. To do so, first let it cool down completely. Feel free to store it in one big bag or portion it out into several smaller bags. To thaw, place a bag in the freezer overnight.

Reheating Tip: To reheat braised Beef, place it in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through. You can also zap it in the microwave for a couple of minutes.

FAQ

What is braised Beef made of?

Braised Beef is typically made with an assortment of veggies, a couple of cups of broth, and spices. All the ingredients are slow-cooked in the oven until tender and almost stew-like.

How long should I braise Beef for?

It takes at least 90 minutes to braise Beef and properly break the collagen down. You might need to adjust the time a little longer depending on your particular oven.

At what temperature should I braise Beef?

The best temperature for braising Beef is 375°F. If you decide to go for a lower temperature, make sure you increase the cooking time to compensate.

Why is my braised Beef so tough?

Primarily, braised Beef turns out tough if it wasn’t cooked long enough. Other problems include not using enough liquid or not cutting the Beef into similar-sized pieces.

Should the braising liquid cover the Beef?

You do not need to completely cover the Beef with broth. Two cups of broth or stock is more than enough to get ultra-tender braised Beef.

More Braised Comfort Recipes

  • Comforting Braised Cabbage – Low-carb meats and cabbage
  • Braised Oxtail Recipe (One-Pot) – Oxtail with potatoes, onions, and carrots
  • Braised Potatoes with Beef – Melt in your mouth Beef and potatoes
  • One Pan Braised Cabbage with Rice – Tender meat with rice and cabbage

Recipe

Easy Braised Beef with Mushrooms Recipe (8)

Easy Braised Beef with Mushrooms Recipe

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Servings

6 servings

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 50 minutes mins

Recipe contributed by: Natalya Drozhzhin

This easy Braised Beef recipe is juicy, tender, and super flavorful. Perfect over your favorite grain or paired alongside roasted veggies!

Ingredients

US UnitsMetric

Instructions

  • Trim the Beef of any excess fat and cut the beef into 3-inch pieces. Set it aside.

  • Chop the onions into one inch chunks and the mushrooms into halves. Set the veggies aside.

  • Preheat a Dutch oven (or another oven-safe dish) with 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Add in the Beef and brown each piece on all sides. Remove the Beef from the pot and set it aside.

  • In the same pan, add 2 more tablespoons of oil and cook the onions and mushrooms in the Beef drippings until they turn a light shade of brown.

  • Add the Beef back into the pan and season the pot with salt, cumin, and black pepper. Add in bay leaves and beef broth. Cover with a lid.

  • Bake in a preheated oven to 375°F for about 90 minutes or until Beef is tender. Serve immediately with your favorite side dish and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Easy Braised Beef with Mushrooms Recipe

Amount Per Serving

Calories 699 Calories from Fat 495

% Daily Value*

Fat 55g85%

Saturated Fat 19g95%

Trans Fat 3g

Polyunsaturated Fat 2g

Monounsaturated Fat 27g

Cholesterol 161mg54%

Sodium 1618mg67%

Potassium 969mg28%

Carbohydrates 7g2%

Fiber 2g8%

Sugar 3g3%

Protein 43g86%

Vitamin A 14IU0%

Vitamin C 4mg5%

Calcium 65mg7%

Iron 5mg28%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Posted September 27, 2021

About Author

Easy Braised Beef with Mushrooms Recipe (15)

Natalya Drozhzhin

Natalya founded Momsdish to demonstrate that placing a homemade meal on the table is not hard at all. Natalya makes cooking easier and approachable, by simplifying the ingredients, while still producing the same great taste.

  1. Easy Braised Beef with Mushrooms Recipe (16)

    Vivian BrooksFeb 9, 2024

    I’m putting it in oven 325. When should I add carrots?

    1. Easy Braised Beef with Mushrooms Recipe (17)

      Natalya DrozhzhinFeb 12, 2024

      Hey Vivian, I would add the carrots when I add the beef back to the pot. Enjoy!

  2. Easy Braised Beef with Mushrooms Recipe (18)

    TiNov 10, 2022

    How do I make this in an instant pot?

    1. Easy Braised Beef with Mushrooms Recipe (19)

      Richard FJul 25, 2023

      The same way, be careful not to over cook meat, place all ingredients in the instant pot or crockpot.

    2. Easy Braised Beef with Mushrooms Recipe (20)

      Natalya DrozhzhinNov 10, 2022

      Hi Ti, Simply brown the Beef and veggies on the Sauté Setting and add in the rest of the ingredients right on top. Turn on the Soup Setting and let the pressure cooker work its magic!

  3. Easy Braised Beef with Mushrooms Recipe (21)

    TorieOct 26, 2022

    Can I use shallots in place of the onion?

    1. Easy Braised Beef with Mushrooms Recipe (22)

      Natalya DrozhzhinOct 26, 2022

      Hi there Torie! I would say yes. The difference wouldn't be crazy noticeable. If you prefer shallots over onions, You can absolutely substitute!

    1. Easy Braised Beef with Mushrooms Recipe (24)

      Natalya DrozhzhinMay 5, 2022

      Hi Monica - Absolutely. That sounds delicious. Let me know how it turns out and thanks for your question.

      1. Easy Braised Beef with Mushrooms Recipe (25)

        Monica YonatanovMay 17, 2022

        This turned out sooooo delicious! Thank you So much for the recipe I will be making this every week for my family.

        1. Easy Braised Beef with Mushrooms Recipe (26)

          Natalya DrozhzhinMay 17, 2022

          Monica, this is so great to hear. Thank you for sharing your feedback!

  4. Easy Braised Beef with Mushrooms Recipe (27)

    Gigi MalibuApr 17, 2022

    Excellent recipe and easy to follow along…I used shiitake mushrooms and Maui onions…a little bit of Bisto to thicken the grave there it all in there slow cooker after sautéing filet mignon in butter and onions added mushrooms, carton of organic beef broth and voila…Cant wait to try it.

    1. Easy Braised Beef with Mushrooms Recipe (28)

      Natalya DrozhzhinApr 18, 2022

      YUM! That sounds amazing, Gigi. I love shiitake mushrooms so much and you can't go wrong with organic beef. Looking forward to hearing how it all turns out.

  5. Easy Braised Beef with Mushrooms Recipe (29)

    TanyaJan 16, 2022

    How would you do this in a slow cooker?

    1. Easy Braised Beef with Mushrooms Recipe (30)

      Natalya DrozhzhinJan 16, 2022

      Hi Tanya - You'll want to brown the beef in a skillet on all sides and saute the veggies. Next, place all the ingredients into the slow cooker and cook on high for 4-6 hours, or until the beef is ultra tender. Hope this helps!

  6. Easy Braised Beef with Mushrooms Recipe (31)

    AlinaSep 29, 2021

    Can I substitute deer meat for beef?

    1. Easy Braised Beef with Mushrooms Recipe (32)

      Cindy BriggsFeb 4, 2024

      I substitute venison in all my beef dishes all the time. Turns out delicious!

    2. Easy Braised Beef with Mushrooms Recipe (33)

      Natalya DrozhzhinSep 29, 2021

      Hi Alina, Honestly I dont know, I have never cooked with deer meat. Sorry, I cant be much help.

      1. Easy Braised Beef with Mushrooms Recipe (34)

        GinaApr 29, 2022

        Yes! We use venison in place of beef all the time. You may need extra fat since it's so lean.

        1. Easy Braised Beef with Mushrooms Recipe (35)

          Natalya DrozhzhinApr 30, 2022

          Yummmmmm. Now I'm hungry! 🙂

  7. Easy Braised Beef with Mushrooms Recipe (36)

    BethSep 28, 2021

    This is absolutely delicious. My family and I really enjoyed it. I served it over a little smashed cauliflower to cut those carbs a little bit!

    1. Easy Braised Beef with Mushrooms Recipe (37)

      Natalya DrozhzhinSep 28, 2021

      Beth, that is a great idea to cut some carbs, I'm so glad you loved the recipe!

  8. Easy Braised Beef with Mushrooms Recipe (38)

    AllyssaSep 28, 2021

    Thank you so much for this amazing braised beef with mushrooms recipe! So easy to make and tasted really good! Will surely have this recipe again, highly recommended!

    1. Easy Braised Beef with Mushrooms Recipe (39)

      Natalya DrozhzhinSep 28, 2021

      I am so glad you loved the recipe, Allyssa! Thank you for taking the time to comment!

  9. Easy Braised Beef with Mushrooms Recipe (40)

    NatalieSep 28, 2021

    Mmmm...my mouth is watering!! Absolutely delicious!! It's a hearty meal our whole family loves!

    1. Easy Braised Beef with Mushrooms Recipe (41)

      Natalya DrozhzhinSep 28, 2021

      Hello Natalie,
      I am so glad you love the recipe, it really is perfect for the fall and winter time!

  10. Easy Braised Beef with Mushrooms Recipe (42)

    ViolaSep 27, 2021

    How long do you cook in the pressure cooker for if there is no soup option?

    1. Easy Braised Beef with Mushrooms Recipe (43)

      Natalya DrozhzhinSep 28, 2021

      Hey Viola, Thats a great question. I would recommend cooking it on high for about 30 minutes. Enjoy

Easy Braised Beef with Mushrooms Recipe (2024)

FAQs

Should you cook mushrooms before or after meat? ›

Cooking the veggies down before adding the meat is a must in order to bring out their meaty texture and umami-rich flavor. What is this? Once the mushrooms and onions are sautéed until golden brown, the meat is added and cooked as you normally cook ground beef.

How long does it take to braise beef? ›

The liquid level needs to remain the same, so add more if necessary. It will take about 1 1/2 to 3 hours to become fork-tender. As soon as it's fork-tender, it's done. Cooking any longer will dry out the meat.

Should you cook mushrooms before putting in stew? ›

Ideally, you'd cook the mushrooms in the same chicken pot (preferably in the chicken fat) and concentrate their flavors before building the rest of the stew right on top. Adding the raw mushrooms straight to the liquid in the pot diluted their flavor and didn't do anything to help their texture.

What cuts of beef are good for braising? ›

A steak cut from the chuck (blade or chuck steak) or a shoulder steak is tough, may have a streak of gristle in it and really does well with a braise.

Can you cook raw meat and mushrooms together? ›

As long as the mushrooms are both fresh enough and of an edible sort, yes! A pork or veal filet mignon aux morilles, for example, us a classic here in Switzerland. That a pork or veal tenderloin with a rich cream and morel sauce… And there are tons of such recipes in French and Swiss and German (and…)

Why do you need to soak mushrooms before cooking? ›

This will ensure that any little critters living in the mushroom find their way out. Add salt to the water you plan to wash the mushrooms with, making sure the salt dissolves in the water. Add the mushrooms to the water, and allow them to soak for 20 minutes.

What is the best liquid for braising beef? ›

Braising liquid is traditionally stock and wine; however, beer emphasizes other flavors in meats. Stock emphasizes the meat flavor, while wine and beer diversify the profile. Wine works in any braise, increasing depth, nuance and acidity.

Do you braise with the lid on or off? ›

Keep the lid on when braising meat, as it needs moist heat over a long period of time to break down the collagen and connective tissues for fork-tender results. "Pot covered, the ingredient you are braising gets continuously bathed in these steaming and simmering liquids, which the item flavors in turn," says Welsh.

Do you flip meat when braising? ›

If you are making a braise that uses very little liquid, it may be necessary to turn the meat over from time to time.

Can you overcook mushrooms in stew? ›

Their cell walls contain chitin, a quite different polymer to the cellulose of plant cell walls, which accounts for their strange texture. Chitin is remarkably heat-stable, which is why it is practically impossible to overcook mushrooms – they remain firm yet tender even after prolonged cooking.

Should you season mushrooms while cooking? ›

Never salt the mushrooms before cooking. Salt draws out moisture and will therefore make them extremely mushy. We want a nice meaty delicious bite to them with color and texture, so salt at the end always.

Is it better to roast or sauté mushrooms? ›

Roasting mushrooms is easy and one of the best ways to cook them. I roast mushrooms with olive oil and herbs until golden brown, then stir in fresh garlic a few minutes before they come out of the oven. Our oven-roasted mushrooms are simple and so flavorful.

What is the difference between braising and stewing beef? ›

Braising involves cooking large pieces of meat or chicken partially covered in liquid, while stewing uses smaller pieces of meat totally immersed in liquid. The liquid will usually be a combination of stock and water.

What is the best meat for braised beef? ›

Chuck Roast

This cut of meat is a great budget-friendly option for braising. In addition, chuck roast is beautifully marbled, so it's already a step ahead when it comes to juiciness.

What is the best temperature for braising? ›

For best results, do not allow the braising liquid to boil; adjust your burner to the lowest setting (the liquid should be at a bare simmer), or braise in a slow oven set between 275°F (135°C) and 300°F (150°C). Some chefs swear by an even lower oven temperature of 200°F (95°C).

Do you cook steak or mushrooms first? ›

Melt butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add steaks; cook 3 minutes on each side until browned or until desired degree of doneness. Remove steaks from pan; keep warm. To prepare mushrooms, add shallots and mushrooms to pan; sauté 4 minutes or until lightly browned.

Should you cook mushrooms before? ›

Boiled mushrooms brown faster and more evenly than raw; you don't have to wait for them to cook down, so you don't have to worry too much about crowding the pan. As long as they eventually make contact with a hot, oiled skillet, boiled mushrooms will brown nicely.

Why do you cook mushrooms first? ›

Starting Your Mushrooms In Water Intensifies Their Flavor

When we cook mushrooms, both the water and the air are forced out of the hyphae, collapsing the air pockets and preventing any water or oil from entering the mushroom.

What is the best time to cook mushrooms? ›

Mushrooms cook best in a quick, high-temperature roast. Cook your mushrooms uncovered in a pan at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 minutes, or until they are slightly browned.

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