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.
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.
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.