Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Beef and Rice
When you need a complete meal that comes together without multiple pans, this slow cooker beef and rice dish delivers honest comfort. Lean beef chuck gently braises alongside diced sweet potatoes, absorbing the savory beef broth and earthy thyme as the rice softens into a hearty base.
Why this one works
- True one-pot preparation with no pre-searing required
- Beef chuck turns tender during the long, low braise
- Sweet potatoes add natural richness and subtle sweetness
- Rice cooks directly in the seasoned beef broth for deep flavor
What you’ll need
- 1 lb (450g) lean beef chuck, cubed Cut into uniform, bite-sized cubes so the meat softens evenly during the cook time.
- 2 cups (400g) sweet potatoes, peeled and diced Keep the dice relatively consistent in size to ensure even cooking throughout the pot.
- 1 cup (200g) long-grain white rice Use standard long-grain white rice so liquid ratios and cooking times remain balanced.
- 3 cups (720ml) beef broth Provides the essential braising liquid for the beef and hydration for the rice.
- 1 tsp (5g) dried thyme Coat the beef thoroughly with the thyme to distribute its herbal aroma into the broth.
- 1 tbsp (15ml) olive oil Helps the dried thyme adhere evenly across the cubed beef.
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What to have nearby
- Slow cooker (4 to 6 quart capacity)
- Chef's knife and cutting board
- Mixing bowl for tossing beef
Step-by-step instructions
The preparation requires just a few minutes of straightforward assembly before the slow cooker takes over the rest.
- 1Step 1
Toss the cubed beef with olive oil and thyme.
- 2Step 2
Place beef, sweet potatoes, and rice into the slow cooker.
- 3Step 3
Pour the beef broth over the mixture.
- 4Step 4
Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours until the beef is tender and rice is fully cooked.
- 5Step 5
Stir gently before serving.
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A few things worth knowing
- Coat the beef thoroughly in the oil and thyme before adding it to the slow cooker for even seasoning.
- Keep the slow cooker lid firmly closed during cooking to trap the steam needed to properly cook the rice.
- Stir gently at the end of the cooking cycle to avoid mashing the tender sweet potato pieces.
Ways to make it your own
- Garnish individual portions with freshly cracked black pepper before serving.
- Top with a light sprinkle of fresh flat-leaf parsley for a pop of color.
Serving suggestions
Ladle directly into shallow bowls while hot. It pairs nicely alongside a simple garden salad dressed with a light vinaigrette or steamed green beans to add fresh contrast to the rich, slow-cooked bowl.
Storage & reheating
Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate once cooled. When reheating, add a small splash of extra beef broth or water if the rice has absorbed excess liquid.
Nutrition notes
Nutrition is provided as a general estimate for the listed recipe. Brands, exact portions, and ingredient swaps can change the numbers.
Quick recipe answers
Can I cook this on high heat instead of low?+
The recipe specifies cooking on low for 6 to 7 hours, which gives the lean beef chuck adequate time to become tender without scorching the rice.
Why is gentle stirring recommended at the end?+
After 6 to 7 hours, the sweet potatoes and rice will be very tender, so a light folding motion keeps the ingredients intact rather than breaking into a mash.
With minimal morning prep, this dish yields a satisfying, savory bowl of tender beef, soft potatoes, and seasoned rice ready for dinner.
Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Beef and Rice
Tender beef chuck, diced sweet potatoes, and white rice slow-cooked in a savory thyme-scented broth for a simple, hearty one-pot meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) lean beef chuck, cubed
- 2 cups (400g) sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup (200g) long-grain white rice
- 3 cups (720ml) beef broth
- 1 tsp (5g) dried thyme
- 1 tbsp (15ml) olive oil
Instructions
- Toss the cubed beef with olive oil and thyme.
- Place beef, sweet potatoes, and rice into the slow cooker.
- Pour the beef broth over the mixture.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours until the beef is tender and rice is fully cooked.
- Stir gently before serving.
Nutrition
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