Cracker Barrel Roast Beef Gravy Recipe

If you’re as enthusiastic about hearty comfort food as I am, this Cracker Barrel Roast Beef recipe is YOURS!

You won’t believe how the blend of beef juices, a splash of cornstarch, and a secret ingredient transform into a silky smooth sauce.

I find using a bit of pressure cooker liquid adds depth and flavor to the mix.

Make sure you don’t skip resting the beef as those juices are integral for a flavorful concoction.

This gravy is delightful on mashed potatoes or drizzled over the tender roast beef itself.

How to Make Cracker Barrel Roast Beef Gravy Recipe

Ingredients

• 3 lb Beef Roast
• 1 can Beefy Mushroom Soup (10.5 oz)
• 1 cup Beef Broth
• 1 packet Onion Soup Mix
• 3 tbsp Cornstarch
• 2 tbsp Water
• Salt and Pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Season the beef roast generously with salt and pepper.

Place it in a slow cooker.

Add the beef broth and onion soup mix.

Cover and cook on low for about 8 hours, or until the roast is tender.

Step 2:

Once cooked, remove the beef from the slow cooker and set it aside.

Reserve the cooking juices for the gravy.

Step 3:

In a bowl, combine cornstarch and water to form a smooth slurry.

Mix it well to avoid clumps.

Step 4:

Transfer the cooking juices to a pot on the stove.

Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

Step 5:

Gradually whisk the cornstarch slurry into the simmering juices.

Stir continuously until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Choosing the Right Cut:

When picking your roast, a chuck roast works well due to its rich marbling and tenderness after slow cooking.

Consistent Thick Gravy:

Make sure to whisk the cornstarch into cold water thoroughly before adding to ensure it thickens evenly without lumps.

Flavor Boost:

Consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce for an extra depth of flavor that adds a kick to the gravy.

Adjust Seasoning:

Taste the gravy as it simmers and adjust salt and pepper gradually to meet your flavor preference.

Storing Leftovers:

Store any leftover gravy in an airtight container in the fridge, and it will keep well for up to three days.

Enjoy creating this hearty dish, bringing warmth and family togetherness with each delicious spoonful!

What to Serve with Cracker Barrel Roast Beef Gravy Recipe

Mashed Potatoes

You can’t go wrong with serving this hearty roast beef gravy over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes.

The smooth, buttery texture of mashed potatoes works beautifully with the rich, flavorful gravy to create a classic comfort food pairing.

Green Beans

Freshly steamed green beans add a nice contrast with their crunchy texture and vibrant color.

They provide a refreshing bite that complements the savory and robust flavors of the roast beef gravy nicely.

Buttermilk Biscuits

Imagine having a warm, flaky buttermilk biscuit to sop up every last drop of this delicious gravy.

Buttermilk biscuits provide a slightly sweet and buttery addition that makes each bite a real delight!

Roasted Root Vegetables

Try something different by pairing this dish with roasted root vegetables like carrots, turnips, and parsnips.

Their earthy sweetness and slight caramelization from roasting add an unexpected, yet tasty twist.

Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad

For a bright and flavorful option, serve with a lemon herb quinoa salad featuring fresh herbs, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes.

This creates a light and zesty balance to the rich and hearty gravy.

Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries bring a wonderful sweet-savory balance to the table.

The crisp texture and natural sweetness make them a fun and delicious side that stands up well to the gravy’s rich essence.

Variations and Substitutions

Meat Alternatives

You can substitute the roast beef with other cuts of beef, like brisket or chuck, ensuring they are slow-cooked for tenderness.

For a twist, try using pork or even chicken, though the texture and flavor will vary.

Thickening Agents

Instead of cornstarch, you might opt for flour to thicken the gravy.

Arrowroot powder is another great option, especially if you’re aiming for a gluten-free dish.

Flavor Enhancers

You can add a splash of red wine to the gravy for a richer taste.

Herbs like rosemary and thyme can bring an aromatic twist to the dish.

Dietary Adjustments

Replace beef broth with vegetable or chicken broth if you prefer a lighter flavor.

Soy sauce can substitute for salt to add a deep umami flavor without heavy seasoning.

How to Store Leftover Cracker Barrel Roast Beef Gravy

Storing leftover Cracker Barrel roast beef gravy is simple and can help you enjoy those delicious flavors again!

Once you’ve portioned the gravy, make sure to cool it completely before storing it.

This prevents condensation in the container, which can make the gravy watery and reduce its shelf life.

Refrigeration

Place the gravy in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Store it in the refrigerator, where it will last for up to three to four days.

A tight seal ensures the gravy retains its rich flavor and texture without absorbing other fridge odors.

Freezing

For longer storage, consider freezing your leftovers!

Pour the cooled gravy into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty ziplock bags.

Leave a bit of space at the top for expansion.

Label with the date and use within two to three months.

Thawing

When you’re ready to use the frozen gravy, transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight.

Gentle thawing is best to maintain the consistency and flavor.

This method keeps the gravy smooth and prevents separation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Letting the Meat Rest

You might be eager to dive in, but letting the roast beef rest is important!

If you skip this step, you could end up with less juicy meat and that’s a big no-no.

Incorrect Gravy Consistency

Getting the gravy just right can be a game.

Too thick or too watery, and you’ve missed the mark.

Always mix cornstarch and water fully before adding it to prevent lumps!

Ignoring Drippings

Those drippings in your pan or slow cooker are pure gold!

Don’t make the mistake of tossing them, as they add incredible flavor and richness to your gravy.

Using these gives you a gravy that can’t be beat.