Here’s a detailed and foolproof guide to making tender, flavorful beef tips in your crockpot for a perfect meal any day of the week! 🥘
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef stew meat or beef tips
- Optional prep: Sear in a hot skillet with oil for added flavor and caramelization.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- Alternatives: Use cream of celery or cream of onion for variety.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) water
- Enhancement: Replace with beef broth for a richer flavor profile.
- 1 packet (1 oz) brown gravy mix
- Optional add-ins: Worcestershire sauce (1 tsp) or soy sauce (½ tsp) for depth.
- 1 medium onion, diced
- Alternative: Use pearl onions for a sweeter, milder flavor.
- Optional vegetables:
- Sliced mushrooms
- Diced celery
- Carrots cut into chunks
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Crockpot
- Lightly grease the inside of your crockpot with nonstick spray or a small drizzle of oil to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Sauce
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together:
- Cream of mushroom soup
- Water or beef broth
- Brown gravy mix
- Whisk until smooth, ensuring no lumps remain.
3. Assemble the Dish
- Add the diced onions (and any optional vegetables) to the bottom of the crockpot.
- Layer the beef stew meat on top of the onions.
- Pour the prepared soup mixture over the beef, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated.
4. Cook the Beef Tips
- Low Setting: Cook on low for 6-8 hours for the most tender results.
- High Setting: Cook on high for 3-4 hours if you’re short on time.
5. Optional Adjustments
- Thicker Gravy:
- 30 minutes before serving, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water to make a slurry. Stir this into the crockpot.
- Season to Taste:
- Add salt, pepper, or garlic powder toward the end of cooking if needed.
Serving Suggestions
- Base:
- Serve over creamy mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or fluffy white rice.
- Sides:
- Corn on the cob, roasted green beans, or sautéed carrots pair beautifully.
Tips for the Best Beef Tips
- Use Fresh Beef: Fresh beef stew meat or tips will yield the best results; avoid frozen meat if possible.
- Don’t Skip the Sear: While optional, searing the beef beforehand adds a deeper, savory flavor.
- Stir Occasionally: If you’re around, give the mixture a gentle stir halfway through cooking for even distribution.
- Low and Slow is Key: Cooking on low heat for an extended period ensures melt-in-your-mouth beef.
Leftovers
- Storage: Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the gravy if needed.
This detailed guide ensures a hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekends. Enjoy the richness of smothered beef tips with minimal effort! 🍽️