Tender beef tips slow-cooked to perfection in a rich gravy, served over egg noodles for a comforting and easy dinner.
Introduction:
Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for those days when you crave a hearty, flavorful meal with minimal effort. This dish features succulent beef tips that are slow-cooked in a rich and savory gravy, making the meat incredibly tender and infused with flavor. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to go about your day while it simmers away, creating a mouthwatering aroma that fills your home. Served over a bed of egg noodles, this dish is not only satisfying but also easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to be a hit, offering warmth and comfort in every bite.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat or beef tips
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 packet (1 oz) dry onion soup mix
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 1/4 cup cold water (optional, for thickening)
- 12 oz egg noodles
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- In a large skillet, brown the beef tips over medium-high heat until all sides are seared. Transfer the beef to your crockpot.
- In the same skillet, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until softened, then add them to the crockpot.
- Pour in the beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, and Worcestershire sauce. Sprinkle in the dry onion soup mix, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Stir everything together in the crockpot until well combined.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender.
- If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix the cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the crockpot 30 minutes before serving. Cook until the gravy thickens.
- Prepare the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Serve the beef tips and gravy over the cooked egg noodles, garnishing with fresh parsley if desired.
How to Prepare:
- Start by choosing the right cut of beef. Beef stew meat or sirloin tips work best as they become tender during slow cooking.
- Searing the beef tips before adding them to the crockpot is essential for developing flavor. Don’t skip this step!
- If you prefer a thicker gravy, make sure to mix the cornstarch slurry well before adding it to the crockpot to avoid lumps.
- Cooking on low for a longer time yields the most tender beef, but if you’re short on time, cooking on high still delivers great results.
- Use wide egg noodles for this dish; their soft texture pairs perfectly with the tender beef and rich gravy.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 7-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high
- Total Time: 7-8 hours 20 minutes
Servings:
- Yields: 6 servings
FAQs:
1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
- Yes, sirloin or chuck roast cut into cubes works well. The key is slow cooking to achieve tenderness.
2. What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?
- You can substitute with cream of chicken soup or make your own by combining heavy cream with sautéed mushrooms.
3. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
- Absolutely! Carrots, mushrooms, or peas can be added to the crockpot in the last hour of cooking for extra flavor and nutrition.
4. How do I store leftovers?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
5. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
- Yes, use gluten-free noodles and ensure the soup and soup mix are gluten-free as well.
Conclusion:
Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles is a delicious, slow-cooked meal that brings comfort and warmth to your table. The tender beef, rich gravy, and soft egg noodles create a dish that is both satisfying and easy to make. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a crockpot, this recipe is perfect for busy days when you still want to enjoy a homemade meal. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a cozy dinner, Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles is a recipe you’ll turn to time and time again. So, gather your ingredients, set your crockpot, and get ready to enjoy a comforting and flavorful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
