Easy Beef Tips Crock Pot Recipe For Dinner Tonight

Beef tips crock pot recipe: Tender beef in a rich gravy, slow-cooked for ultimate flavor. A comforting and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights.

This recipe delivers a hearty and satisfying meal of tender beef simmered in a flavorful gravy. The slow cooker transforms simple ingredients into a deeply savory dish, perfect for a comforting dinner.

Imagine sinking your fork into succulent pieces of beef, each bite saturated with a rich, umami-packed sauce. The slow cooking process breaks down the meat, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture that contrasts beautifully with the slight resistance of the perfectly cooked vegetables. The aroma alone is enough to stir up feelings of warmth and contentment.

Slow-cooked beef dishes hold a special place in many cultures, representing resourcefulness and the ability to create a delicious meal from humble cuts of meat. The method of slow cooking has been passed down through generations, adapting to local ingredients and preferences, creating countless regional variations.

What makes this particular recipe appealing is its simplicity and convenience. The slow cooker does most of the work, freeing up time for other activities. The ingredients are readily available, and the dish is easily customizable to suit individual tastes and dietary needs.

From adding a splash of red wine for depth to incorporating different herbs and spices, the possibilities are endless. Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for a complete and satisfying meal. Explore additions such as mushrooms, onions or bell peppers for enhanced flavour.

Ready to experience the ease and flavor of slow-cooked perfection? Let’s dive into the recipe and create a memorable meal that will warm both your body and soul.

Tenderizing

Tenderizing is the cornerstone of a truly exceptional beef tips crock pot recipe. It transforms potentially tough cuts of meat into a melt-in-your-mouth delicacy, enhancing the overall dining experience.

• The Cut MattersCertain cuts, like sirloin tips or chuck roast, benefit significantly from the slow-cooking tenderization process. These cuts, while flavorful, possess tougher muscle fibers that require time and gentle heat to break down. The crock pot provides the ideal environment for this transformation.
• Pre-Sear PerfectionSearing the beef tips before adding them to the crock pot isn’t just about adding color; it contributes to the tenderizing process. The Maillard reaction, occurring during searing, creates flavorful compounds that penetrate the meat, enhancing its overall taste and contributing to a more tender texture. It also helps to seal in the juices, keeping the beef moist during the long cooking time.
• The Marinade MagicA marinade can work wonders in tenderizing beef tips. Acidic ingredients like vinegar, lemon juice, or even yogurt can help break down the muscle fibers, resulting in a more tender final product. Marinades also infuse the meat with flavor, adding another layer of complexity to the dish.
• Low and Slow is KeyThe extended cooking time at a low temperature is the ultimate tenderizing technique. This gentle heat allows the connective tissues in the beef to gradually break down, resulting in incredibly tender and succulent beef tips. Patience is paramount, as rushing the process will compromise the final texture.

Ultimately, the art of tenderizing beef tips in a crock pot involves a combination of selecting the right cut, employing techniques like searing and marinating, and embracing the low and slow cooking method. The result is a dish where each bite is a testament to the power of patient cooking and thoughtful preparation, elevating the simple beef tips crock pot recipe to a culinary triumph.

Flavorful Gravy

The gravy is the heart and soul of a great beef tips crock pot recipe. It binds the dish together, infusing the tender beef with a rich, savory essence that elevates the entire culinary experience.

• The Foundation of FlavorA well-crafted gravy begins with a solid foundation. This often involves browning the beef tips, which creates fondthose delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Deglazing the pan with broth, wine, or beer loosens this fond, unlocking layers of flavor that form the base of the gravy.
• Building Depth with AromaticsAromatics such as onions, garlic, and herbs play a crucial role in adding depth and complexity to the gravy. Sauting these ingredients until softened releases their fragrant oils, infusing the gravy with their distinctive character. The specific aromatics used can be tailored to complement the overall flavor profile of the dish, from classic combinations like thyme and rosemary to bolder choices like smoked paprika or chili powder.
• Thickening to PerfectionAchieving the desired consistency is vital for a flavorful gravy. A common method involves creating a rouxa mixture of butter and flour cooked togetherwhich is then whisked into the liquid to thicken it. Cornstarch slurry is another popular option, offering a quicker and gluten-free alternative. The key is to whisk constantly to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth, velvety texture.
• The Umami BoostIngredients like Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, or mushroom broth can provide a boost of umamithat savory, satisfying flavor that enhances the overall taste of the gravy. These ingredients add depth and complexity, creating a gravy that is both rich and intensely flavorful. A touch of acidity, such as a splash of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice, can also brighten the gravy and balance the richness.

Ultimately, the flavorful gravy is what transforms simple beef tips into a truly memorable dish. Its richness, depth, and complexity elevate the tender beef, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors that delights the palate and leaves a lasting impression, showcasing the simple magic inherent within a beef tips crock pot recipe.

Slow-Cooking Ease

The allure of a beef tips crock pot recipe lies significantly in its simplicity and convenience. It seamlessly integrates into busy lifestyles, promising a flavorful, home-cooked meal with minimal effort.

• Minimal Prep TimeThe beauty of slow cooking is the limited hands-on time required. After a quick sear and a simple combination of ingredients, the crock pot handles the rest. This frees up valuable time for other activities, making it ideal for those with hectic schedules.
• One-Pot WonderReduced cleanup is a significant advantage of crock pot cooking. All the ingredients cook together in one pot, minimizing the number of dishes to wash. This streamlined approach simplifies meal preparation and makes it more appealing for everyday cooking.
• Consistent ResultsSlow cookers are designed to maintain a consistent temperature, ensuring even cooking and preventing burning. This reliable performance delivers predictable and satisfying results every time, regardless of cooking experience.
• Hands-Off CookingOnce the ingredients are in the crock pot, there’s no need for constant monitoring. The slow cooker gently simmers the beef tips to tender perfection, allowing for a truly hands-off cooking experience. This unattended cooking is a huge time saver.

Ultimately, the slow-cooking ease inherent in a beef tips crock pot recipe is a major draw for many home cooks. Its convenience, minimal cleanup, consistent results, and hands-off nature make it a practical and appealing option for busy individuals and families, demonstrating the beauty of uncomplicated cooking.

Versatile Serving

The adaptability of serving options significantly enhances the appeal of a beef tips crock pot recipe. The tender, flavorful beef, steeped in rich gravy, lends itself effortlessly to a multitude of culinary pairings, transforming a single recipe into an array of delightful meals. This flexibility makes it a practical choice for diverse palates and occasions.

Consider the possibilities: Served over creamy mashed potatoes, the dish offers classic comfort. Paired with fluffy rice or egg noodles, it transforms into a hearty and satisfying meal. For a lighter option, the beef tips can be spooned over polenta or enjoyed in a crusty bread bowl. Further extending its versatility, the beef tips can be incorporated into savory pies or served as a filling for hearty sandwiches or wraps. Even the leftover gravy finds new life, enriching soups or stews with its deep, savory flavor.

Ultimately, the beauty of a beef tips crock pot recipe lies not only in its ease of preparation and delectable flavor, but also in its remarkable adaptability. This versatility ensures that the dish remains a welcome staple in any kitchen, readily transforming to suit various tastes and culinary preferences, showcasing the practical magic of simple ingredients and creative serving ideas.

Recipe Metadata

• Categories: One pot Recipes, Autumn Recipes, Fall Recipes, Main Dishes
• Courses: Dinner, Main Dishes
• Cuisines: American
• Keywords: Beef, Slow Cooker, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, Gravy

Estimated Cost: $20.00 total

Preparation Time & Yield

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-8 hours
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
• Recipe Yield: Serves 6 people

Ingredients

• 2 pounds beef tips, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup dry red wine (optional, can substitute with more beef broth)
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for serving (optional)

Instructions

• Step 1: Sear the Beef Tips: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef tips in batches until browned on all sides. This step adds flavor and helps to seal in the juices. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
• Step 2: Saut Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the same skillet and saut until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and begin to brown, about 5 more minutes.
• Step 3: Make the Gravy Base: Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables in the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the beef broth and red wine (if using), ensuring no lumps form. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
• Step 4: Combine and Slow Cook: Transfer the seared beef tips to the crock pot. Pour the gravy mixture over the beef. Add the bay leaf. Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender.
• Step 5: Thicken the Gravy (Optional): If the gravy is too thin, remove the bay leaf and stir in a slurry made from 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Cook on high for 15-20 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency.
• Step 6: Serve and Enjoy: Serve the beef tips and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Optional Tip: For a richer flavor, use bone-in beef short ribs in place of beef tips. Reduce the amount of salt added, as the short ribs will naturally release salt during cooking.

Nutritional Information

Approximate nutritional values per serving (based on 6 servings, without sides):

Essential Cooking Equipment

The preparation of a successful beef tips crock pot recipe requires several essential kitchen tools:

• Slow Cooker (Crock Pot)
• Large Skillet
• Cutting Board
• Chef’s Knife
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Mixing Bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula

Variations

The classic beef tips crock pot recipe is remarkably adaptable. A number of variations can tailor the dish to personal preferences, dietary needs, or regional culinary traditions.

• Ingredient Swaps: For a richer flavor, substitute bone-in short ribs for beef tips. Adjust the liquid to vegetable broth for a lighter flavor or to accommodate dietary restrictions. Add diced potatoes, carrots, or celery for a more substantial, stew-like dish.
• Regional Twists: Incorporate Southwestern spices like chili powder and cumin for a Tex-Mex-inspired variation. Use Italian herbs such as oregano and basil for a Mediterranean flair. Add a splash of Guinness for an Irish-inspired dish.
• Dietary Adjustments: Ensure gluten-free status by using a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the gravy. Opt for low-sodium beef broth to reduce sodium content. Replace red wine with non-alcoholic red wine or additional beef broth.

Serving Suggestions

Beef tips crock pot recipe presents numerous serving possibilities:

• Serve hot over mashed potatoes for a classic comfort food combination.
• Pair with rice or egg noodles for a hearty and satisfying meal.
• Offer as a filling for savory pies or handheld sandwiches.
• Consider as a topping for polenta or grits.
• Beef tips make an excellent addition to a hearty stew or shepherd’s pie.

This dish is well-suited for family dinners, potlucks, and casual gatherings. Its rich flavors and tender texture make it a crowd-pleaser.

Storage Tips

Proper storage ensures the preservation of flavor and texture:

• Allow the beef tips to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the beef tips and gravy to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of beef broth if the gravy has thickened excessively during storage.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Question 1: Can I use a different cut of beef? The recipe works best with beef tips or chuck roast, but other cuts like sirloin can be used. Cooking times may vary.
• Question 2: Can I skip the searing step? Searing the beef adds flavor and helps to seal in the juices, but it can be skipped for convenience. The overall flavor may be slightly diminished.
• Question 3: Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot? Yes, use the “saute” function to sear the beef and cook the vegetables. Then, add the remaining ingredients and cook on high pressure for 30-40 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release.
• Question 4: How can I make the gravy thicker? A cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) can be added to the gravy during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking to thicken it.
• Question 5: Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker? Yes, hardy vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and celery can be added at the beginning of the cooking process. More delicate vegetables like peas or green beans should be added during the last hour of cooking.

Summary & Final Thoughts

This beef tips crock pot recipe offers a delightful blend of ease and rich flavor, transforming simple ingredients into a comforting and satisfying meal. The tender beef and flavorful gravy are perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings.

The recipe’s adaptability lets you adjust the ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, or vegetables to create your own unique version of this classic dish.

We encourage you to try this recipe and experience the magic of slow-cooked perfection. It’s a simple and delicious way to create a memorable meal for yourself, your family, or your friends. Share your experience and results; we would like to see them.

Happy cooking! Let us know how yours turns out, and if you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment.

Easy Beef Tips Crock Pot Recipe For Dinner Tonight

Beef tips crock pot recipe: Tender beef in a rich gravy, slow-cooked for ultimate flavor. A comforting and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 6 hours hrs

Total Time 6 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Main Dishes

Cuisine American

Servings 6 people

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• The preparation of a successful beef tips crock pot recipe requires several essential kitchen tools:
• Slow Cooker (Crock Pot)
• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef's knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula

Ingredients

  

• 2 pounds beef tips, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup dry red wine (optional, can substitute with more beef broth)
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for serving (optional)

Instructions

 

• Step 1: Sear the Beef Tips: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef tips in batches until browned on all sides. This step adds flavor and helps to seal in the juices. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
• Step 2: Saut Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the same skillet and saut until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and begin to brown, about 5 more minutes.
• Step 3: Make the Gravy Base: Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables in the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the beef broth and red wine (if using), ensuring no lumps form. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
• Step 4: Combine and Slow Cook: Transfer the seared beef tips to the crock pot. Pour the gravy mixture over the beef. Add the bay leaf. Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender.
• Step 5: Thicken the Gravy (Optional): If the gravy is too thin, remove the bay leaf and stir in a slurry made from 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Cook on high for 15-20 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency.
• Step 6: Serve and Enjoy: Serve the beef tips and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Optional Tip: For a richer flavor, use bone-in beef short ribs in place of beef tips. Reduce the amount of salt added, as the short ribs will naturally release salt during cooking.

Notes

Variations

The classic beef tips crock pot recipe is remarkably adaptable. A number of variations can tailor the dish to personal preferences, dietary needs, or regional culinary traditions.

• Ingredient Swaps: For a richer flavor, substitute bone-in short ribs for beef tips. Adjust the liquid to vegetable broth for a lighter flavor or to accommodate dietary restrictions. Add diced potatoes, carrots, or celery for a more substantial, stew-like dish.
• Regional Twists: Incorporate Southwestern spices like chili powder and cumin for a Tex-Mex-inspired variation. Use Italian herbs such as oregano and basil for a Mediterranean flair. Add a splash of Guinness for an Irish-inspired dish.
• Dietary Adjustments: Ensure gluten-free status by using a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the gravy. Opt for low-sodium beef broth to reduce sodium content. Replace red wine with non-alcoholic red wine or additional beef broth.

Serving Suggestions

Beef tips crock pot recipe presents numerous serving possibilities:

• Serve hot over mashed potatoes for a classic comfort food combination.
• Pair with rice or egg noodles for a hearty and satisfying meal.
• Offer as a filling for savory pies or handheld sandwiches.
• Consider as a topping for polenta or grits.
• Beef tips make an excellent addition to a hearty stew or shepherd’s pie.

This dish is well-suited for family dinners, potlucks, and casual gatherings. Its rich flavors and tender texture make it a crowd-pleaser.

Storage Tips

Proper storage ensures the preservation of flavor and texture:

• Allow the beef tips to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the beef tips and gravy to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of beef broth if the gravy has thickened excessively during storage.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Question 1: Can I use a different cut of beef? The recipe works best with beef tips or chuck roast, but other cuts like sirloin can be used. Cooking times may vary.
• Question 2: Can I skip the searing step? Searing the beef adds flavor and helps to seal in the juices, but it can be skipped for convenience. The overall flavor may be slightly diminished.
• Question 3: Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot? Yes, use the “saute” function to sear the beef and cook the vegetables. Then, add the remaining ingredients and cook on high pressure for 30-40 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release.
• Question 4: How can I make the gravy thicker? A cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) can be added to the gravy during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking to thicken it.
• Question 5: Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker? Yes, hardy vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and celery can be added at the beginning of the cooking process. More delicate vegetables like peas or green beans should be added during the last hour of cooking.

Keyword Comfort Food, easy dinner, Slow Cooker