Slow Cooker Beef Tips Recipe – Easy Family Meal

Before we delve into the magical world of slow cooker beef tips, let’s explore the perfect side dishes to round out this rich, savory meal. Creamy mashed potatoes are a timeless choice, their smooth and buttery texture soaking up the flavorful sauce beautifully. 

For a splash of color and a hint of crunch, steamed green beans add freshness and contrast against the beef’s richness. A slice of crusty French bread is ideal for sopping up every last drop of the delicious juices, ensuring no flavor goes to waste. 

A crisp Caesar salad brings a zesty, refreshing balance, cutting through the heartiness of the dish. Lastly, a fluffy rice pilaf serves as the perfect base, absorbing all the incredible flavors from the slow-cooked beef. 

With these perfect pairings in mind, let’s dive into my favorite slow cooker beef tips recipe!

What are Slow Cooker Beef Tips?

Slow cooker beef tips are bite-sized pieces of beef cooked slowly until they are incredibly tender. Traditionally made with stewing beef, this dish combines rich flavors influenced by the broth and spices used during cooking. 

The result is a delightful amalgamation of flavors that makes each bite an experience in itself.

Using a slow cooker, you eliminate the intense monitoring often required in cooking methods like sautéing or roasting. The beauty lies in the patience, where the appliance takes over and allows the meat to absorb flavors while becoming wonderfully tender.

What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?

Imagine a dance on your palate. Savory beef, earthy mushrooms, a hint of garlic, and a touch of umami from Worcestershire sauce. Each ingredient contributes to a symphony of flavor that invites you back for seconds—maybe even thirds!

The beef stew cubes break down during cooking, soaking in all the flavors from the broth and seasonings. The slow cooker enhances the dish's complexity, making it more than just a simple meat stew. 

You’ll find the sweet notes from onions blending harmoniously with earthy, savory mushrooms, all lifted by the salty goodness of soy and Worcestershire sauces.

What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Slow Cooker Beef Tips?

This recipe stands out for its use of only a handful of ingredients yet delivers a remarkable depth of flavor. 

While many slow cooker beef recipes lean heavily on canned soups or premade sauces, this one emphasizes fresh ingredients and a few pantry staples like onion and garlic, creating layers of flavor.

Moreover, by incorporating a French onion soup mix, a classic twist is added, elevating a traditional fare with new enthusiasm. Each way I approach this dish has allowed me to experiment while keeping the heart of the recipe intact: easy, hearty, and incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients You'll Need

To create this culinary masterpiece, gather the following:

• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tbsp dark Worcestershire sauce
• 3 lbs beef stew cubes
• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
• 1 packet French onion soup mix
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 3 cups rich beef broth
• 3 tbsp corn starch
• 2 cups cremini mushrooms, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Freshly ground salt and black pepper, to taste
• ¼ cup water

Step by Step Directions

Let’s break this process down for clarity and ease.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by chopping and preparing all the ingredients. Mince the garlic and finely chop the onion. This step is straightforward but crucial. Having everything ready makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew cubes. Brown them on all sides. This step adds a rich flavor that will enhance the overall dish. Don’t rush it; get a nice golden color on the beef.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

Once your beef is nicely browned, toss in the garlic and onion. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onions soften and the mixture becomes fragrant.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pan

Here’s where the magic happens! Pour in a splash of beef broth to deglaze the pan. Scrape any brown bits from the bottom. They hold incredible flavor. Keep this mix aside for now.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Transfer the beef and aromatics into the slow cooker. Add the remaining beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, thyme, and the French onion soup mix. This is your flavor base. Stir everything gently to combine.

Step 6: Add the Mushrooms

Now, gently fold in the sliced cremini mushrooms. They will soften and release flavor while cooking, adding to the overall dish.

Step 7: Cook on Low

Set your slow cooker to low and let it do its work for about 6-8 hours. You can also set it on high for 3-4 hours if you’re short on time. The longer cooking time is ideal for the beef to tenderize and flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 8: Thicken the Gravy

About 30 minutes before serving, mix the corn starch with water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir this into the slow cooker. It will thicken the juices, giving you a luscious gravy.

Step 9: Season to Taste

Before serving, taste the dish. Adjust salt and pepper as necessary. Flavor can change as the dish cooks, so this step is key to ensuring it hits all the right notes.

Tips On Making Slow Cooker Beef Tips

Here are some useful tips for achieving the best results:

• Choose the Right Cut: Use chuck roast or another stewing beef. These cuts become tender through slow cooking.
• Don't Skip Browning: Searing the beef adds depth of flavor. It’s an extra step worth taking.
• Layer Your Flavors: Adding ingredients in a specific order ensures flavors develop properly. Start with the meat, then aromatics, followed by liquids.
• Play with Seasonings: Feel free to adjust seasonings according to your preference. Fresh herbs can add extra dimension.
• Let it Rest: Allow the beef tips to sit for 10-15 minutes before serving. This will help the flavors settle.

How Can I Store This Slow Cooker Beef Tips?

Storing slow cooker beef tips is simple. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can last in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the leftovers. Place them in freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some headspace. Properly sealed, they can last in the freezer for 3-4 months.

When reheating, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and heat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

Ingredient Swaps for Slow Cooker Beef Tips

If you’re missing some ingredients, don’t fret! Here are substitutes you can use effectively:

• Beef Broth: If you’re out, chicken broth or vegetable broth works in a pinch.
• Soy Sauce: Use tamari for a gluten-free option or even coconut aminos for a healthier choice.
• Cremini Mushrooms: If unavailable, try button mushrooms or even shiitake for a different flavor profile.
• French Onion Soup Mix: Combine onion powder, beef bouillon, and a touch of garlic for a homemade version if you don’t have the packet.

Conclusion

Slow cooker beef tips offer a comforting, hearty meal that warms the soul. This dish embodies the essence of home-cooked comfort, perfect for families or gatherings. With straightforward ingredients and a simple method, it’s easy to make yet delivers a depth that impresses.

Whether it’s a quiet family dinner or a festive gathering, slow cooker beef tips will surely be a hit. Try it, and see how the aroma fills your space, bringing everyone to the table. 

Your taste buds will thank you, and honestly, what’s better than that? So gather your ingredients, fire up that slow cooker, and enjoy a delicious journey ahead!

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