If you’re looking for a cozy, delicious meal that practically cooks itself, crock pot beef tips are the answer. This classic comfort food is all about tender chunks of beef simmered slowly in a rich gravy until they melt in your mouth. Whether you’re new to slow cooking or a seasoned pro, this guide will walk you through how to cook beef tips in a crock pot with ease and flavor.
What Are Beef Tips?
Beef tips are small pieces of beef, often cut from sirloin, chuck, or stew meat, that are perfect for slow cooking. They become incredibly tender when cooked low and slow, soaking up all the savory flavors from the broth and seasonings.
Why Use a Crock Pot for Beef Tips?
The crock pot (slow cooker) is ideal for beef tips because it gently breaks down the connective tissues in the meat over several hours. This results in juicy, tender beef without constant supervision. Plus, it’s a “set it and forget it” meal – just toss the ingredients in and come back to a ready-to-eat dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– Beef tips (about 2 pounds)
– Beef broth
– Onion soup mix or dry onion powder
– Cream of mushroom soup (optional for creamy gravy)
– Worcestershire sauce
– Garlic (minced or powder)
– Italian seasoning or herbs like thyme and oregano
– Salt and pepper
– Butter and flour (for thickening gravy, optional)
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Beef Tips in a Crock Pot
1. Prep the Beef Tips
Start by patting your beef tips dry. This helps with browning if you choose to sear them first. Although you can put raw beef directly into the crock pot, searing the meat in a hot skillet with a little oil or butter for a few minutes adds extra flavor and locks in juices.
2. Add Ingredients to the Crock Pot
Spray your crock pot insert with a nonstick spray to prevent sticking. Place the beef tips inside, then pour in beef broth and add your seasonings – onion soup mix, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and herbs. If you want a creamy gravy, add cream of mushroom soup. Stir everything gently to combine.
3. Cook Low and Slow
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. Cooking on low is best for tender, fall-apart beef. The long cooking time allows the meat to absorb all the flavors and become wonderfully soft.
4. Thicken the Gravy (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can make a roux by melting butter in a saucepan and whisking in flour until smooth. Then slowly add some of the cooking liquid from the crock pot and cook until thickened. Pour this back into the crock pot and stir well. Alternatively, mix cornstarch with cold water and add it to the crock pot near the end of cooking to thicken the sauce.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Beef tips are delicious served over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles to soak up the rich gravy. Add a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Crock Pot Beef Tips
– Sear for Flavor: Browning the beef before slow cooking adds depth and locks in juices.
– Even Pieces: Cut beef into similar-sized chunks to ensure even cooking.
– Season Well: Use a good blend of seasonings like Worcestershire sauce, garlic, onion soup mix, and herbs for a balanced flavor.
– Don’t Rush: Slow cooking on low heat yields the best tenderness.
– Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently with a splash of broth to keep the meat moist.
Variations and Serving Ideas
– Swap cream of mushroom soup for a homemade gravy made from beef broth and thickened with flour or cornstarch for a lighter option.
– Add vegetables like mushrooms, onions, or carrots to the crock pot for extra flavor and nutrition.
– Use different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
Crock pot beef tips are a comforting, easy-to-make meal that fits perfectly into busy schedules. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can enjoy tender, flavorful beef tips any night of the week.
Tender, savory, and simple – crock pot beef tips are a must-try for your next slow cooker dinner.