How to Cook Perfect Beef Medallions in a Slow Cooker

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Beef medallions are small, tender cuts of beef taken from the tenderloin. Their petite size and lean texture make them ideal for quick cooking methods like pan searing But did you know you can also cook beef medallions low and slow in a slow cooker? With the right preparation and cooking techniques, beef medallions turn out incredibly moist and flavorful when made in a crockpot.

In this complete guide, we will walk through how to buy, prepare, season, and cook beef medallions in a slow cooker, as well as serving suggestions Follow these tips and tricks for fork-tender beef medallions ready to be the star of your next easy weeknight dinner

Purchasing Beef Medallions

When shopping for beef medallions to cook in the slow cooker, look for cuts that are:

  • Uniformly thick between 1 to 2 inches wide

  • Bright red in color with good marbling throughout

  • Minimal surface moisture or dryness

Well-marbled medallions will have great flavor and tenderness. Try to use fresh medallions within 4-5 days for maximum quality. Vacuum-sealed packages can last 7-10 days refrigerated.

Prepping Beef Medallions for the Slow Cooker

Proper prep is key to great slow cooker beef medallions:

  • Pat the medallions dry with paper towels. Excess moisture can hinder browning.

  • Lightly score both sides in a criss-cross pattern to help absorb flavors.

  • Season generously with salt and pepper or a bold spice rub.

  • Quickly sear the medallions in a hot pan before slow cooking to boost flavor.

  • Consider pounding them slightly to break down fibers. Avoid over-tenderizing.

  • Let meat rest at room temperature 30 minutes before cooking for more even heating.

Seasonings and Flavors for Slow Cooker Beef Medallions

One of the biggest keys to amazing flavor is properly seasoning the beef before cooking. Here are some of our favorite seasoning combos:

  • Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika

  • Soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger

  • Ranch seasoning mix, lemon pepper

  • Rosemary, thyme, oregano, Worcestershire

  • Chili powder, cumin, oregano, red pepper flakes

  • Balsamic vinegar, Dijon, basil, parsley

Apply seasonings liberally and massage into the meat. Let marinate 30 minutes or longer if time allows. This tenderizes and infuses big flavor.

Layering and Liquid for the Slow Cooker

To cook beef medallions in a crockpot, start by layering vegetables on the bottom. Try onions, carrots, potatoes, mushrooms or other favorites. Top with seasoned medallions.

Next, add liquid like beef broth, red wine, or barbecue sauce to the slow cooker to keep the meat moist. Pour it around the meat, about 1 cup total. Sprinkle on dried herbs.

Keep medallions in a single layer if possible so they cook evenly. Resist stirring or flipping them too much during cooking.

Cooking Time and Temperature

For 1-inch thick medallions, cook on LOW for 7-8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours. 2-inch cuts may need 9-10 hours on LOW.

The finished internal temperature should reach 145°F for medium or 160°F for well done. Always allow standing time before serving.

Use a meat thermometer to confirm doneness. If medallions seem dry at end of cooking, add more liquid.

Serving Slow Cooker Beef Medallions

These tender medallions deserve a delicious presentation. Serve with:

  • Mashed, baked or roasted potatoes

  • Sauteed mushrooms, onions or brussels sprouts

  • Fresh green salad or roasted vegetables

  • Egg noodles, rice, or roasted garlic mashed cauliflower

  • Beef gravy or au jus

  • Horseradish cream, chimichurri or peppercorn sauce

Slice medallions and fan out on the plate, topping with any pan sauces from cooking. A favorite is blue cheese butter. Enjoy this restaurant-quality meal from the comfort of home!

With the right prep, seasoning, and cooking technique, beef medallions cooked in the slow cooker come out incredibly succulent and packed with flavor. Follow these helpful tips for making the most tender, mouthwatering beef medallions for your family any night of the week.

Common Mistakes to Avoid With Slow Cooker Beef Medallions

While slow cooker beef medallions can be amazing when done right, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:

Overcrowding the slow cooker – Too many medallions piled up will steam instead of cooking evenly. Leave some space around each piece.

Not browning the meat first – Skipping this step makes medallions pale and less flavorful. Always quickly sear.

Cooking on HIGH too long – This can dry out and toughen the lean meat. Stick to LOW setting for best texture.

Not using a thermometer to check doneness – Eyeballing it can lead to under or overcooked beef. Take temperatures.

Forgetting to add liquid – The moist environment is essential. Add broth, wine or sauce to the slow cooker.

Neglecting to let meat rest – Skipping standing time means you lose all those flavorful juices. Always let rest 5-10 minutes before slicing.

Underseasoning – Don’t be afraid to season boldly before cooking. The meat soaks it up.

Follow our tips and you’ll be rewarded with the most tender, juicy beef medallions ever from your slow cooker!

FAQs About Cooking Beef Medallions in a Slow Cooker

What cut of beef makes the best medallions?

Beef medallions come from the tenderloin, the most tender muscle that runs along the cow’s spine. Choose uniform, 1-2 inch pieces.

How long should you cook beef medallions in a slow cooker?

For 1-inch medallions, cook 7-8 hours on LOW or 4-5 hours on HIGH. For 2-inches, cook 8-10 hours on LOW.

What temperature should beef medallions reach in the slow cooker?

Cook until they reach an internal temperature of at least 145°F for medium or 160°F for well done.

Should you sear beef medallions before putting them in the slow cooker?

Yes, searing locks in juices and gives great caramelized flavor. Sear 2-3 minutes per side in a very hot pan.

What liquid is best for cooking beef medallions in a slow cooker?

Beef broth, red wine, barbecue sauce, and mushroom gravy all work great. Use about 1 cup total.

What vegetables go well with slow cooker beef medallions?

Onions, carrots, mushrooms, and potatoes pair wonderfully. Garlic and herbs add big flavor.

Do you need to thicken the sauce for slow cooker beef medallions?

If the sauce seems thin, stir in a cornstarch slurry at the end to thicken and coat the medallions.

With these handy tips and techniques, you can become a pro at cooking melt-in-your-mouth beef medallions low and slow in the crockpot!

3 Delicious Beef Medallion Slow Cooker Recipes to Try

Simple Garlic Herb Beef Medallions

*2 lbs beef medallions
*2 Tbsp olive oil
*Salt and pepper
*6 cloves garlic, minced
*1⁄4 cup fresh parsley and thyme, chopped
*1 cup beef broth
*Mashed potatoes

**

SLOW COOKED US BEEF MEDALLIONS

FAQ

Can I put raw beef straight into a slow cooker?

Yes, you most certainly can cook raw meat in the slow cooker! You put it in “cold”, with whatever liquid your recipe calls for, turn it on either “low” or “high” depending on your recipe (I usually start it on “high” for a couple hours, then turn it to “low”), and in 6–7–8 hours, it’s now COOKED meat!

How long does it take for beef to get tender in slow cooker?

Simply add the meat to your slow cooker with aromatics, stock and sauces and cook either on High for 4-5 hours or on Low for 5-8 hours. How do you make meat tender in a slow cooker? Choosing a cut of beef best suited for low and slow cooking is the ideal way to get extra tender meat.

How do you keep beef from getting tough in a slow cooker?

Add Just Enough Liquid To keep a pot roast from drying out, your slow cooker needs liquid to create a moist environment, and that can include meat or vegetable stock, wine or water.

How to cook beef medallions?

Delicious beef medallions, slowly cooked with red wine and vegetables. Add a cup of Brown Rice to serve a complete meal. Put the flour, salt and pepper in a plastic bag, put the medallions and shake evenly. In a hot pan, heat the oil and brown the medallions on every side. Cover them with mustard and reserve.

How to cook medallions in a crock pot?

In a hot pan, heat the oil and brown the medallions on every side. Cover them with mustard and reserve. Put the vegetables in layers inside the crock pot, add the garlic cloves and season, put the meat evenly distributed, ad the red wine, the water and sprinkle some rosemary above, cover and cook.

How to cook beef tenderloin in a slow cooker?

Wash the potatoes and cut in half. Cut the onion into slices. In a mixing bowl, combine carrots, potatoes and onion. Drizzle with olive oil and stir to coat. Place the beef tenderloin in the slow cooker and pour water over it. Sprinkle the spices, to taste. Add the vegetables. Cover. Cook on Low for 8-10 hours.

How to cook steak medallions?

Before you start cooking, season the steak medallions with salt and pepper. You can also add your favorite herbs and spices to enhance the flavor of the meat. Make sure to pat the seasoning into the medallions to ensure it adheres well. In a hot skillet or grill pan, add a small amount of oil and heat it until it begins to shimmer.

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