If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal with minimal effort, look no further than these Best-Ever Beef Tips made in the slow cooker. This recipe features tender, flavorful beef tips simmered in a savory gravy that’s perfect served over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles. The slow cooker does all the work, making this a fantastic option for busy days or family gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Beef Tips:
- 2 lbs cubed beef stew meat
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil (or canola oil)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cups water
- 1 package brown gravy mix (0.87 ounce or 0.75 ounce packet)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (or fresh garlic, minced)
- 1 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- Parsley for garnish (optional)
For Thickening the Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Begin by cubing the beef stew meat into bite-sized pieces if not already done. Pat the beef dry with paper towels to help it brown more effectively.
2. Brown the Beef:
- Heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil (or canola oil) in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cubed beef in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Brown the beef on all sides, which helps develop a rich flavor. Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker.
3. Sauté the Onions:
- In the same skillet used for browning the beef, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is softened and slightly caramelized. Transfer the onions to the slow cooker with the beef.
4. Combine the Gravy Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together 3 cups of water, the brown gravy mix, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder (or fresh minced garlic), and fresh ground black pepper. Make sure the gravy mix is fully dissolved.
5. Add to Slow Cooker:
- Pour the gravy mixture over the beef and onions in the slow cooker. Stir to combine and ensure the beef is evenly coated.
6. Cook the Beef Tips:
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The beef should be tender and easily shredded with a fork when it’s done.
7. Thicken the Gravy (Optional):
- About 1 hour before serving, prepare the cornstarch slurry. In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water until smooth. Stir the mixture into the slow cooker. This will thicken the gravy as it continues to cook.
8. Final Touches:
- Once the cooking time is complete, check the seasoning and adjust with additional salt and pepper if necessary. If the gravy is too thick, you can thin it with a bit more water. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
9. Serve:
- Serve the beef tips over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles. The savory gravy pairs perfectly with these sides, making for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Tips for Success
- Browning the Beef: Don’t skip the browning step, as it adds depth of flavor to the beef and gravy. Browning also helps to develop a richer color and taste.
- Gravy Mix: For best results, use a high-quality brown gravy mix. It’s the base for the sauce and significantly impacts the final flavor.
- Adjusting Thickness: If the gravy thickens too much, you can always thin it out with a bit more water or beef broth. Conversely, if it’s too thin, add a bit more cornstarch slurry.
- Serving Suggestions: These beef tips are versatile and can be served with a variety of sides such as creamy mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or steamed rice. For a complete meal, consider adding a side of vegetables like green beans or carrots.
These Best-Ever Beef Tips made in the slow cooker are a simple yet delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The slow cooking process ensures the beef is tender and infused with a rich, savory gravy. With just a few easy steps and minimal prep, you can enjoy a comforting, home-cooked meal with family and friends. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Enjoy!
