Slow cooker braised steak & onion is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for those chilly nights when the family gathers around the table. This recipe has its roots in traditional American home cooking, where the art of slow braising makes the meat fall-apart tender and the onions infuse the broth with a sweet richness. It's a wonderful meal to make because it requires minimal hands-on time, leaving you free to spend more moments with your loved ones while it gently cooks to perfection.

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. My family loves it with creamy mashed potatoes, which soak up the flavorful sauce, and a simple green vegetable like steamed broccoli or green beans to add a bit of color and freshness to the plate. A warm, crusty bread on the side is also a great idea for a complete and satisfying meal.

Servings: 4-6 servings

2 lbs of chuck steak, cut into large chunks
2 large onions, thinly sliced
3 cloves of garlic, minced
2 cups of beef broth
1/2 cup of red wine (optional)
2 tablespoons of tomato paste
1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon of dried thyme
1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons of olive oil

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak chunks with salt and pepper, then sear them in the skillet until browned on all sides. This locks in the juices and adds great flavor.

2. Transfer the seared steak to your slow cooker. In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and cook until they start to soften and caramelize, about 5 minutes.

3. Add the garlic to the onions and cook for another minute until fragrant.

4. Pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using) into the skillet, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom. Mix in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary.

5. Pour the onion and broth mixture over the steak in the slow cooker. Stir to combine and ensure the steak is well coated.

6. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the steak is tender and easily pulled apart with a fork.

7. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed before serving.

For a more kid-friendly version, you can skip the red wine and use an additional 1/2 cup of beef broth. If you have picky eaters, carrots and potatoes can be added to the slow cooker for a more stew-like meal that hides extra veggies in a tasty way. For those who enjoy a bit of a kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added for a slight heat.

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