Easy Beef Tips Recipe: A Delicious and Simple Meal
Are you looking for a quick, easy, and flavorful beef recipe? Look no further! This easy beef tips recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner and requires minimal prep time. It's packed with deliciousness and sure to become a family favorite. Let's get started!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1.5 lbs beef sirloin tips: Cut into 1-inch pieces. Sirloin tips are a lean and tender cut, perfect for this recipe. You can also substitute with other beef cuts like stew beef or chuck roast, but increase the cooking time accordingly.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Use a high-heat oil to sear the beef properly.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor. Yellow or white onions work best.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that savory punch.
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup: Provides creaminess and richness. You can easily substitute with homemade cream of mushroom soup for a healthier option.
- 1/2 cup beef broth: Adds moisture and enhances the flavor. Low-sodium broth is recommended.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: A dash of umami.
- 1 tsp dried thyme: Adds an earthy aroma and flavor. Fresh thyme is even better if you have it!
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: To taste. Adjust to your preference.
- Salt to taste: Season generously throughout the cooking process.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Sear the Beef: Season beef tips generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the beef tips in batches until browned on all sides. This step is crucial for developing a rich flavor. Remove the seared beef from the skillet and set aside.
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Sauté Aromatics: Add chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Combine Ingredients: Return the seared beef to the skillet. Stir in cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 1-1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the beef is tender, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, noodles, or your favorite side dish.
Tips and Variations:
- For a thicker sauce: Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the sauce during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Add vegetables: Enhance your dish by adding other vegetables such as carrots, celery, or mushrooms along with the onions.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Use different soup: Experiment with cream of celery or cream of chicken soup for a different flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use frozen beef tips? A: Yes, but you'll need to add about 15-20 minutes to the cooking time. Make sure to thaw them completely before searing.
Q: What kind of skillet should I use? A: A large skillet or Dutch oven works best. Ensure it's oven-safe if you plan to transfer it to the oven to finish cooking.
Q: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker? A: Yes! Brown the beef as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
This easy beef tips recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Enjoy!
