Slow Cooker Homestyle Beef Tips: The Ultimate Comfort Food
There’s something magical about walking into a kitchen that smells like slow-cooked beef tips—rich, savory, and downright comforting. Whether you’re juggling work, kids, or just life in general, this Slow Cooker Homestyle Beef Tips recipe is here to save your dinner routine. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug, with tender chunks of beef swimming in a velvety gravy that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles.
I first discovered this recipe on a chaotic weeknight when my grocery plans fell apart (we’ve all been there). With a package of stew meat and a slow cooker, I threw together what I had—onions, garlic, beef broth—and let time work its magic. The result? A dish so good, my kids asked for seconds, and my husband declared it a keeper. Now, it’s a staple in our rotation, especially during busy seasons when simplicity is key.
Why You’ll Love These Slow Cooker Beef Tips
This recipe is a game-changer for so many reasons:
- Effortless Prep: Just 10 minutes of hands-on time, and your slow cooker does the rest.
- Budget-Friendly: Stew meat is affordable and transforms into something luxurious.
- Freezer-Friendly: Make a double batch and freeze half for future busy nights.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for family dinners or potlucks—everyone asks for the recipe!
How to Make Slow Cooker Homestyle Beef Tips
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 lbs beef stew meat
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp cornstarch (for thickening)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sear the Beef (Optional but Worth It): For extra flavor, brown the beef in a skillet over medium-high heat before adding it to the slow cooker.
- Layer Ingredients: Place the beef, onion, garlic, broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper in the slow cooker.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on LOW for 7–8 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours, until the beef is fork-tender.
- Thicken the Gravy: Mix cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water, stir into the slow cooker, and cook for another 15–20 minutes until the gravy thickens.
Tips for the Best Beef Tips
Here’s how to make this dish even more foolproof:
- Don’t Skip the Sear: Browning the beef adds depth of flavor. If you’re short on time, it’s okay to skip, but it’s worth the extra step!
- Low and Slow Wins: Cooking on LOW ensures the beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender.
- Customize It: Add mushrooms, a splash of red wine, or a bay leaf for extra richness.
Pair this with my Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes for the ultimate comfort meal. Trust me, your family will thank you!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes! Chuck roast or sirloin work well too. Just cut them into 1-inch pieces.
Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! Cook on HIGH pressure for 25 minutes, then natural release for 10 minutes. Thicken the gravy as directed.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
What’s the best way to reheat?
Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep the gravy creamy.
Can I add vegetables?
Definitely! Carrots, potatoes, or mushrooms are great additions. Add them in the last 2 hours of cooking.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and cornstarch. Check labels to be sure!
There you have it—a hearty, no-fuss meal that’s as easy as it is delicious. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, these Slow Cooker Homestyle Beef Tips are sure to become a favorite. For more cozy recipes, try my Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings next. Happy cooking!
PrintSlow Cooker Homestyle Beef Tips
Description
Tender beef tips slow-cooked in a rich, savory gravy with mushrooms and onions. Perfect served over mashed potatoes or egg noodles for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- For the Beef Tips:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- For the Gravy:
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (1 oz) packet dry onion soup mix
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
- For Vegetables:
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- 1. Season beef cubes with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Place in slow cooker.
- 2. In a bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, dry onion soup mix, and beef broth. Pour over beef.
- 3. Add Worcestershire sauce, mushrooms, onion, and garlic to slow cooker. Stir gently to combine.
- 4. Cover and cook on LOW for 7-8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours until beef is tender.
- 5. In last 30 minutes, mix cornstarch with water to make a slurry. Stir into slow cooker to thicken gravy.
- 6. Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
Notes
For extra flavor, brown the beef in a skillet before adding to slow cooker. Leftovers keep well for 3-4 days refrigerated. Gravy will thicken more upon standing.