Slow cookers are a convenient way to make delicious meals with minimal effort Simply add ingredients to the slow cooker, set it, and let it cook hands-free for hours Many home cooks use packet mixes like Schwartz beef casserole mix to add flavor to meals easily. But can you use these convenient mixes in a slow cooker?
An Overview of Schwartz Mixes and Slow Cookers
Schwartz is a popular brand that makes a variety of packet mixes for casseroles curries gravies, and more. These dried mixes contain seasonings and thickeners you simply rehydrate with meat, vegetables, and liquid.
Slow cookers are countertop electric appliances with low, steady heat perfect for braising cheaper cuts of meat into tender, flavorful meals. Food cooks unattended for up to 8-10 hours on the low setting
Using packet mixes can save time in meal prep. But most mixes provide oven cooking instructions only. So can you adapt them for slow cooking?
What the Experts Say About Using Packet Mixes in Slow Cookers
There is some debate around using packet mixes like Schwartz in slow cookers. Some home cooks and experts advise against it for a few reasons:
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Flavor: Dried mixes can contain a lot of salt and artificial flavors compared to fresh herbs and spices. These strong seasonings can intensify over long slow cooking.
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Texture: Thickeners in mixes may break down over extended slow cooking, leading to thinner consistency.
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Convenience: Part of the benefit of slow cooking is you just dump ingredients in. No need for packet mixes.
However, many home cooks report good results using Schwartz and similar mixes in their slow cookers. They offer some tips:
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Use mixes labeled “slow cooker friendly” when available. Schwartz offers several of these.
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Add the full amount of water recommended on the package, not less. This prevents drying out.
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Cook on low heat for longer time, at least 6-8 hours. Quicker cooking can cause thinning.
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If needed, thicken at end of cooking with corn starch or gravy granules.
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Allow sauce to cool slightly before thickening so granules dissolve properly.
So while using packet casserole mixes isn’t always recommended, Schwartz and similar brands can work in slow cookers with some adjustments.
Schwartz Beef Casserole Mix Specifically
Schwartz offers several beef casserole mixes like beef bourguignon, cottage pie, stroganoff, and more. Most beef casserole mixes contain very similar ingredients:
- Dried beef or gravy stock
- Flour and/or corn starch thickeners
- Salt, yeast extract, and flavorings
Some mixes also contain dehydrated vegetables like onion or carrot.
For any Schwartz beef casserole packet:
- Use at least 1 pound beef chuck or stew meat, cubed
- Add carrots, celery, onions and other veg if not included in packet
- Use full amount of water stated on label
- Cook on low 6-8 hours
The long slow cooking should result in tender beef and vegetables in a nicely thickened sauce. If needed, stir in some corn starch slurry at end to thicken more.
Here are some serving suggestions for common Schwartz beef casserole mixes:
Beef Bourguignon or Burgundy: Great served over buttery egg noodles or mashed potatoes. Include some cooked bacon or mushrooms.
Cottage or Shepherd’s Pie: For casserole with ground beef, top with piping hot mashed potatoes and melted cheese after cooking. Broil to brown top.
Beef Stroganoff: Serve over cooked egg noodles. Stir in some sour cream at the end. Sprinkle with fresh parsley.
Beef Casserole: Pair with roasted root vegetables, biscuits, or crusty bread. Ladle stew into bread bowls.
Tips for the Best Results
To ensure you get a flavorful, properly thickened beef casserole using a Schwartz mix in the slow cooker:
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Choose a fattier cut of beef like chuck or rump roast. Trim excess fat. Cut into 1-2 inch pieces.
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Sear beef pieces briefly in a hot pan before slow cooking. This adds deeper flavor.
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Add 2-3 cups chopped vegetables like carrots, onions, celery, mushrooms.
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Use lower range of water recommended on packet, about 1 1/4 cups.
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Add any extras like red wine, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, bay leaf.
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Cook on low setting for 8-10 hours. DO NOT remove lid during cooking.
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If needed, make cornstarch slurry and stir in at end to thicken more.
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Adjust seasoning just before serving. Add salt, pepper, more herbs as desired.
With these guidelines, you can successfully make deliciousbeef casserole in your slow cooker with a convenient Schwartz mix. Tweak recipes to your tastes over time. Enjoy easy, comforting meals using this kitchen staple.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have some questions about using Schwartz beef casserole mixes in a slow cooker? Here are answers to some common inquiries:
Can you use the oven instructions instead of slow cooking?
It’s not recommended. Oven temps and cooking times are different from slow cooking. Stick to slow cooker guidelines for best results.
How much liquid should you use in the slow cooker?
Use the full amount recommended on the package, usually around 1 1/4 cups. This prevents drying out over long cooking.
Do you need to brown the meat first?
Browning isn’t mandatory but does add deeper flavor. If you have time, sear beef briefly in a hot pan before slow cooking.
How long should you cook beef casserole mixes on low?
Cook for 8-10 hours on low. Flavor develops and meat becomes very tender. Avoid cooking only 4-6 hours on high.
Should you lift the lid during cooking?
No, resist lifting the lid. This releases heat and steam needed for even cooking. Wait until time is up.
Can you thicken with cornstarch or flour at the end?
Yes, make a slurry and stir in near the end of cooking to thicken as needed. Allow to cool slightly first.
What sides go well with beef casserole?
Egg noodles, mashed potatoes, rice, crusty bread are all excellent pairings. Add a green vegetable too.
Enjoy the Convenience of Schwartz Mixes in Your Slow Cooker
While scratch cooking is great, sometimes convenience is called for. With some tweaks to water amount, cooking time, and thickness, you can absolutely use Schwartz beef casserole mixes to make tasty slow cooker meals. Follow the guidelines here for tender, flavorful beef stew every time.
Schwartz mixes are a handy way to add seasoning without much effort. Combine with economical stewing beef, vegetables, and a slow cooker for an easy, nourishing family dinner. Give it a try and see for yourself how these mixes perform when slow cooked.
