Easy Crockpot Beef Tips with Mushrooms and Gravy

Ingredients & Substitutions

Beef Stew Meat: This is the star of the dish! Use chuck roast for its tenderness when cooked low and slow. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can substitute with sirloin, but keep in mind it may cook faster.

Cream of Mushroom Soup: This adds creaminess and flavor. You can use homemade mushroom soup if you prefer, or try cream of chicken or cream of celery soup for a different twist.

Beef Broth: This enhances the beef flavor in the dish. If you’re short on beef broth, mix with chicken broth or even vegetable broth for a lighter taste.

Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms are great, but you can also use canned mushrooms in a pinch. Just rinse them well. For a different flavor, try using shiitake or portobello mushrooms.

Onion Soup Mix: This adds a nice flavor punch, but if you don’t have it, you can simply use dried onion flakes or sauté fresh onions instead to create a similar effect.

How Do You Get Tender, Flavorful Beef Tips?

Achieving tender beef tips is all about cooking them low and slow in the crockpot. Here’s how to make the best beef tips:

• Keep the beef in larger pieces as they cook down, which helps retain moisture.
• Season your beef with salt and pepper before cooking. It enhances flavors significantly.
• Don’t rush the cooking time; aim for the longer setting to really let the meat become fall-apart tender.
• If you like a thicker gravy, mix the cornstarch and water at the end for the best results. Stir well into the sauce and cook until bubbly.

Patience pays off, so sit back and enjoy the aromas in your kitchen while it cooks! You’ll feel great serving this hearty meal to family or friends.

Easy Crockpot Beef Tips with Mushrooms and Gravy

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Main Ingredients:

• 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 packet onion soup mix (about 1 oz)
• 8 oz fresh mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Thickening (Optional):

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped

How Much Time Will You Need?

This easy recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then a cooking time of 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Perfect for a busy day—just toss everything into the crockpot and let it work its magic while you go about your day!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Add the Beef:

Start by placing the beef stew meat into the slow cooker. Make sure to spread it out evenly for even cooking.

2. Layer on the Veggies:

Next, sprinkle the sliced mushrooms and the minced garlic over the beef. This helps to infuse all of the flavors as it cooks!

3. Mix the Sauce:

In a separate bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, onion soup mix, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme (if you’re using it). Stir until it’s well combined, then pour this mixture evenly over the meat and mushrooms in your crockpot.

4. Cook It Up:

Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is super tender. You might want to take a whiff every now and then—it’ll smell amazing!

5. Thicken the Gravy (Optional):

If you like a thicker gravy, about 30 minutes before serving, mix the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the crockpot, cover it again, and cook on high until the gravy thickens up nicely.

6. Final Touches:

Before serving, taste your dish and add salt and pepper as needed. It’s all about finding that perfect flavor!

7. Serve and Enjoy:

Serve the beef tips and mushrooms over a bed of mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles to soak up all that delicious gravy. Don’t forget to garnish with freshly chopped parsley to brighten it up!

Enjoy your comforting, rich crockpot beef tips with mushrooms and gravy! It’s sure to be a hit with your family or guests!

FAQ for Easy Crockpot Beef Tips with Mushrooms and Gravy

Can I Use Frozen Meat for This Recipe?

While it’s best to use thawed beef for even cooking, you can use frozen beef stew meat. Just be aware that it may increase the cooking time by an hour or so. Ensure it’s cooked to the proper internal temperature!

How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

To make this dish gluten-free, swap out the regular cream of mushroom soup for a gluten-free version. Make sure the beef broth and onion soup mix are also gluten-free alternatives. Check the labels for safety!

How to Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of beef broth if the gravy has thickened too much during storage.

Can I Add Other Vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add carrots, peas, or potatoes for extra flavor and nutrition. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so adjust accordingly. Cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking!