Savory Slow Cooker Beef Tips: A Weeknight Dinner Dream

Beef tips, slow cooked to tender perfection in a rich and savory gravy, are the epitome of comfort food. This recipe for Savory Slow Cooker Beef Tips is not only incredibly delicious but also incredibly easy, making it a perfect weeknight meal. Imagine coming home after a long day to the aroma of melt-in-your-mouth beef simmering in a flavorful sauce. That’s the magic of this recipe.

This dish is versatile, pairing well with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, rice, or even creamy polenta. The gravy is so good, you’ll want to sop up every last drop. Let’s dive into how to make this amazing meal!

## Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Beef Tips Recipe

* **Effortless:** The slow cooker does most of the work. Simply brown the beef, throw everything into the pot, and let it simmer.
* **Flavorful:** The combination of beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, herbs, and spices creates a deeply savory and satisfying flavor profile.
* **Tender:** The slow cooking process transforms inexpensive beef tips into incredibly tender, melt-in-your-mouth morsels.
* **Versatile:** As mentioned before, it pairs well with a variety of sides, making it easy to customize your meal.
* **Make-Ahead Friendly:** You can easily prepare the beef tips in the morning before work, or even the night before, and refrigerate them until ready to cook.
* **Freezer-Friendly:** Leftovers freeze beautifully, making this a great option for meal prepping.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need for this recipe:

* **Beef Tips:** Look for beef tips that are already cut into bite-sized pieces. You can usually find them in the meat section of your grocery store. If you can’t find beef tips specifically, you can use a beef chuck roast cut into 1-inch cubes. This is an economical and flavorful option. The key is to use a cut of beef that benefits from long, slow cooking to break down the connective tissue and become tender.
* **Olive Oil:** Used for browning the beef tips. You can also use other oils with high smoke points, such as avocado oil or vegetable oil.
* **Onion:** Adds a foundational layer of flavor to the gravy. Yellow or white onions work best.
* **Garlic:** Essential for a savory dish like this. Use fresh garlic for the best flavor. Mince it finely or use a garlic press.
* **Beef Broth:** Forms the base of the gravy. Use a good-quality beef broth for the best flavor. You can also use beef stock.
* **Worcestershire Sauce:** Adds a savory, umami depth to the gravy. Don’t skip this ingredient!
* **Tomato Paste:** Provides a concentrated tomato flavor and helps to thicken the gravy.
* **Dried Thyme:** A classic herb that complements beef beautifully.
* **Dried Rosemary:** Another herb that adds a savory, aromatic flavor. Use it sparingly, as it can be quite potent.
* **Bay Leaf:** Adds a subtle, aromatic flavor to the gravy. Remember to remove it before serving.
* **Salt and Pepper:** To season the beef tips and gravy.
* **Cornstarch:** Used to thicken the gravy at the end of the cooking process. You can also use flour, but cornstarch creates a smoother, glossier gravy.
* **Water:** To mix with the cornstarch to create a slurry.
* **Optional: Mushrooms:** Adds a hearty and earthy element to the dish. Cremini or button mushrooms work well.
* **Optional: Red Wine:** A splash of red wine can deepen the flavor of the gravy. Use a dry red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot.

## Equipment You’ll Need

* **Slow Cooker:** A 6-quart or larger slow cooker is recommended.
* **Large Skillet or Dutch Oven:** For browning the beef tips.
* **Whisk:** For making the cornstarch slurry.
* **Measuring Cups and Spoons**
* **Cutting Board and Knife**

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make these delicious Savory Slow Cooker Beef Tips:

**Step 1: Prepare the Beef**

* Pat the beef tips dry with paper towels. This is important for getting a good sear. Season generously with salt and pepper.

**Step 2: Sear the Beef**

* Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Working in batches, sear the beef tips on all sides until browned. Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this will steam the beef instead of searing it. Set the seared beef aside.

**Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics**

* Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. If using mushrooms, add them now and cook until softened and lightly browned.

**Step 4: Deglaze the Pan (Optional)**

* If using red wine, pour it into the skillet and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This will add extra flavor to the gravy. Let the wine simmer for a minute or two to reduce slightly.

**Step 5: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker**

* Transfer the seared beef tips, sautéed onions and garlic (and mushrooms if using), beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and bay leaf to the slow cooker.

**Step 6: Slow Cook**

* Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the beef tips are very tender.

**Step 7: Thicken the Gravy**

* In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth to create a slurry.
* Remove the bay leaf from the slow cooker.
* Stir the cornstarch slurry into the slow cooker.
* Cover and cook on high for another 15-30 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency.

**Step 8: Serve**

* Serve the Savory Slow Cooker Beef Tips over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, rice, or polenta. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Enjoy!

## Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Beef Tips

* **Don’t skip the searing:** Searing the beef tips is crucial for developing a rich, deep flavor. It also helps to lock in moisture.
* **Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing:** Searing in batches ensures that the beef browns properly instead of steaming.
* **Use a good-quality beef broth:** The broth is the base of the gravy, so using a flavorful broth will make a big difference.
* **Don’t overcook the beef:** Overcooking can make the beef dry and tough. Cook until it’s fork-tender.
* **Adjust the seasoning to your taste:** Taste the gravy before serving and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
* **For extra flavor, add a splash of red wine:** As mentioned above, a splash of red wine can deepen the flavor of the gravy. Make sure to use a dry red wine.
* **If you don’t have cornstarch, use flour:** Mix equal parts flour and cold water to make a slurry.
* **To make ahead, prepare the beef tips and gravy ingredients and store them in the refrigerator overnight. Add to slow cooker in the morning.**

## Variations and Substitutions

* **Spicy Beef Tips:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the slow cooker for a spicy kick.
* **Mushroom Beef Tips:** Add sliced mushrooms to the slow cooker along with the onions and garlic. Cremini or button mushrooms work well.
* **Vegetable Beef Tips:** Add chopped carrots, celery, and potatoes to the slow cooker for a more complete meal. Add them during the last few hours of cooking so they don’t get too mushy.
* **Creamy Beef Tips:** Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt at the end of the cooking process for a creamier gravy.
* **Gluten-Free Beef Tips:** Use gluten-free beef broth and cornstarch to thicken the gravy.
* **Wine substitution**: If you don’t have wine, you can add a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar to achieve a similar depth of flavor.
* **Herb substitution**: Feel free to experiment with different herbs. Fresh thyme and rosemary are excellent additions. If using fresh herbs, add them in the last hour of cooking to retain their flavor.
* **Spice it up**: Add smoked paprika for a smoky flavor or a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat.
* **Sweetness**: A teaspoon of brown sugar or maple syrup can add a hint of sweetness to balance the savory flavors.

## Serving Suggestions

Savory Slow Cooker Beef Tips are incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. Here are a few suggestions:

* **Mashed Potatoes:** A classic pairing! The creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up the delicious gravy.
* **Egg Noodles:** Another classic choice. The egg noodles provide a hearty and comforting base for the beef tips.
* **Rice:** White rice, brown rice, or even wild rice all work well.
* **Polenta:** Creamy polenta is a delicious alternative to mashed potatoes.
* **Cauliflower Mash:** A low-carb option that’s just as satisfying as mashed potatoes.
* **Roasted Vegetables:** Roasted broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts are a healthy and flavorful side dish.
* **Green Salad:** A simple green salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich beef tips.
* **Crusty Bread:** For soaking up all that delicious gravy!

## Storage and Reheating Instructions

* **Storage:** Store leftover Savory Slow Cooker Beef Tips in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Reheating:** Reheat the beef tips in a saucepan over medium heat until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave. If the gravy is too thick, add a little beef broth or water.
* **Freezing:** Allow the beef tips to cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

**Q: Can I use a different cut of beef?**

A: Yes, you can use a beef chuck roast cut into 1-inch cubes if you can’t find beef tips. This is an economical and flavorful option.

**Q: Can I make this in an Instant Pot?**

A: Yes, you can adapt this recipe for the Instant Pot. Sear the beef tips using the sauté function, then add the remaining ingredients. Cook on high pressure for 30-40 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release for 10 minutes.

**Q: Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?**

A: Yes, you can add chopped carrots, celery, and potatoes during the last few hours of cooking.

**Q: How do I thicken the gravy if I don’t have cornstarch?**

A: You can use flour to thicken the gravy. Mix equal parts flour and cold water to make a slurry.

**Q: Can I make this ahead of time?**

A: Yes, you can prepare the beef tips and gravy ingredients and store them in the refrigerator overnight. Add to slow cooker in the morning.

**Q: My beef tips are tough. What did I do wrong?**

A: The beef tips may not have been cooked long enough. Make sure to cook them until they are fork-tender. Cooking time can vary depending on your slow cooker.

**Q: Can I add wine to the slow cooker?**

A: Yes, adding a splash of red wine can deepen the flavor of the gravy. Use a dry red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot.

## Savory Slow Cooker Beef Tips Recipe

Here’s the complete recipe for Savory Slow Cooker Beef Tips:

**Yields:** 6-8 servings
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Cook time:** 6-8 hours on low, 3-4 hours on high

**Ingredients:**

* 2 pounds beef tips, cut into 1-inch pieces
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 medium onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (optional)
* 3 cups beef broth
* 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
* 2 tablespoons tomato paste
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
* 1 bay leaf
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 2 tablespoons cornstarch
* 2 tablespoons cold water
* 1/4 cup dry red wine (optional)
* Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. Pat the beef tips dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Working in batches, sear the beef tips on all sides until browned. Set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. If using mushrooms, add them now and cook until softened and lightly browned.
4. If using red wine, pour it into the skillet and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the wine simmer for a minute or two to reduce slightly.
5. Transfer the seared beef tips, sautéed onions and garlic (and mushrooms if using), beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and bay leaf to the slow cooker.
6. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the beef tips are very tender.
7. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth.
8. Remove the bay leaf from the slow cooker. Stir the cornstarch slurry into the slow cooker.
9. Cover and cook on high for another 15-30 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency.
10. Serve the Savory Slow Cooker Beef Tips over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, rice, or polenta. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Enjoy!

Enjoy this hearty and flavorful slow cooker recipe! It’s a surefire way to satisfy your comfort food cravings with minimal effort.