Slow Cooker Beef Tips: A Tender and Flavorful Recipe
Are you looking for a delicious and easy weeknight meal? Look no further than this slow cooker beef tips recipe! This recipe is perfect for busy families because it requires minimal prep time and produces incredibly tender and flavorful beef tips. The long, slow cooking process in the crockpot allows the beef to absorb all the delicious flavors of the sauce, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe calls for simple, readily available ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. You'll need:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes (Sirloin tip or chuck roast work well)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional, but adds depth of flavor. You can substitute with extra beef broth)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional additions: 1 cup sliced mushrooms, 1/2 cup sour cream (stirred in at the end), fresh parsley for garnish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these easy steps for perfectly tender beef tips every time:
Step 1: Sear the Beef (Optional but Recommended)
For enhanced flavor, start by searing the beef cubes in olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Brown them on all sides before transferring them to your slow cooker. This step helps to develop a rich, savory crust.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic to your slow cooker. Add the seared beef cubes, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, red wine (if using), Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the beef is incredibly tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the beef is cooked, you can serve it as is, or you can thicken the sauce slightly by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stirring it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve over mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or your favorite side dish.
Tips for the Best Crockpot Beef Tips:
- Don't overcrowd the slow cooker: Allow space for the beef to cook evenly.
- Use a good quality beef stew meat: This will significantly impact the final flavor and tenderness.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to add more or less of any spice to suit your preferences.
- Make it ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. You can prepare it the night before and cook it on low while you sleep!
- Try different variations: Experiment with different vegetables, herbs, or spices to create your own unique twist.
This slow cooker beef tips recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its simplicity and deliciousness make it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or a relaxing weekend meal. Enjoy!
