This Easy Crockpot Beef Tips dish is all about tender beef, tasty mushrooms, and rich gravy that simmers together for hours, filling your home with an irresistible smell!
It’s like a warm hug on a plate. I love serving it over rice or mashed potatoes so I can soak up that delicious gravy. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: Chuck roast is my go-to for tenderness and flavor. If it’s not available, you can use sirloin or brisket. Just ensure it’s a cut meant for slow cooking!
Mushrooms: Button mushrooms are common, but if you want a deeper flavor, try cremini. If mushrooms aren’t your thing, you can skip them or replace them with carrots for a bit of sweetness.
Beef Broth: This gives a rich base to the gravy. You can use low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake, or try vegetable broth as a substitute, keeping in mind it will change the flavor slightly.
Sour Cream: It adds creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt works great! Just stir it in at the end like you would with the sour cream.
Onion and Garlic: Essential for flavor! If you’re in a hurry, onion powder and garlic powder can be a quick fix.
How Do I Get the Beef Perfectly Tender?
The secret to melt-in-your-mouth beef tips is slow cooking! Here’s how to nail it:
- Brown the beef first! This caramelizes the meat’s surface, adding great flavor.
- Use the low setting on your crockpot. Cooking for 7-8 hours at low ensures the beef becomes tender and absorb those flavors.
- Don’t rush the process—resist the urge to lift the lid while cooking, as it lets heat escape!
Lastly, stirring in the sour cream near the end prevents it from curdling, keeping your gravy creamy and smooth.
Easy Crockpot Beef Tips With Mushrooms and Gravy
Ingredients:
For the Beef Tips:
- 2 pounds beef stew meat (such as chuck roast), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 pound mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini work well)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious dish takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then needs to cook for 7-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crockpot. Total time can be around 8 hours if you’re going low and slow. Perfect for those busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Beef:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat in batches, making sure not to crowd the pan. Brown the beef on all sides for about 3-4 minutes. Once browned, transfer the beef to the crockpot. This step adds a rich flavor!
2. Sautéing the Veggies:
In the same skillet, add the diced onions and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they are softened. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. This will enhance the aroma and flavor of your dish!
3. Combining Ingredients:
Now, transfer the sautéed onions, mushrooms, and garlic to the crockpot over the beef. Then sprinkle the flour over the mixture. This will help thicken the gravy later on.
4. Adding the Seasoning:
Pour in the beef broth, and add Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Now, gently stir everything to combine well. It’s going to be delicious!
5. Cooking Until Tender:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer, the better, as this allows the beef to become melt-in-your-mouth tender!
6. Stirring in Creaminess:
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir the sour cream into the crockpot. This adds a creamy texture and delicious flavor to the gravy. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if needed!
7. Serving Your Dish:
Once ready, serve the beef tips and rich mushroom gravy over cooked rice, mashed potatoes, or egg noodles. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh chopped parsley if you like! Enjoy this cozy and flavorful dish!
Enjoy your cozy, flavorful Easy Crockpot Beef Tips With Mushrooms and Gravy!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Beef Tips With Mushrooms and Gravy
Can I Use Frozen Beef in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen beef, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. Thaw the beef in the refrigerator overnight or place it in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for a quicker method. Always ensure it’s fully thawed before browning.
Can I Substitute the Sour Cream?
Absolutely! If you want a lighter option, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt. You can also use cream cheese, just make sure to soften it before mixing it in to avoid lumps in the gravy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover beef tips in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. To maintain creaminess, add a splash of broth or water when reheating.
What Can I Serve With This Dish?
This dish pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or egg noodles. For a healthier option, you might serve it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the rich flavors of the gravy.
