Introduction
Crock Pot Beef Tips are a delicious and hearty meal that you can prepare with minimal effort. This dish showcases tender beef tips simmered in a rich gravy, making it perfect for serving over rice, mashed potatoes, or noodles. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a comforting dish that’s great for family dinners or meal prep.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Beef tips: 2 pounds
Beef broth: 2 cups
Onion soup mix: 1 packet
Soy sauce: 1/4 cup
Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon
Water: 2 tablespoons
Mushrooms (optional): 1 cup, sliced
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Pepper: to taste
Prep Time
Prep time for this recipe is approximately 10 minutes. This quick preparation allows you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is around 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high in the Crock Pot. The total time from prep to serving is approximately 7 to 8 hours. This recipe yields about 6 servings, making it ideal for families or for leftovers throughout the week.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Cut the beef into bite-sized pieces and season them with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
In a skillet over medium-high heat, add some oil and sear the seasoned beef until browned on all sides. This should take about 2-3 minutes per side.
Step 3: Transfer to the Crock Pot
Once the beef is seared, transfer it to the crock pot.
Step 4: Add Vegetables
Chop onions, mushrooms, and bell peppers, and add them to the crock pot with the beef.
Step 5: Mix Sauce Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and any additional seasonings you prefer.
Step 6: Pour Sauce over the Beef
Pour the prepared sauce mixture over the beef and vegetables in the crock pot, ensuring everything is well-coated.
Step 7: Cook the Beef Tips
Cover the crock pot and set it to low heat. Let it cook for 6-8 hours or until the beef is tender.
Step 8: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
If desired, mix a bit of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the gravy mixture about 30 minutes before serving to thicken it up.
Step 9: Serve
Once cooked, stir the beef tips and serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dish.
Notes
Note 1: Beef Cut Options
You can use cuts like sirloin, chuck, or round for this recipe based on your preference.
Note 2: Adjust Flavorings
Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to customize the flavor of the dish to your liking.
Note 3: Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Note 4: Freezing
These beef tips can be frozen as well; just make sure to use a freezer-safe container. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Cook techniques
Slow Cooking
Slow cooking is a method that allows the beef to become tender and infused with flavors over an extended period. Using a crock pot ensures even heat distribution, making it ideal for tougher cuts of meat.
Searing
Before adding beef to the crock pot, searing it in a skillet can enhance the flavor. It creates a caramelized crust that adds depth to the dish when slow-cooked.
Deglazing
After searing the meat, deglazing the pan with broth or wine helps incorporate the browned bits from the bottom. This technique adds additional richness and flavor to the dish.
Layering Ingredients
When putting ingredients into the crock pot, layer them strategically. Place harder vegetables like carrots at the bottom and meats on top to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
Monitoring Temperature
It’s essential to monitor the cooking temperature of the crock pot, ensuring it is set to low or high, depending on the recipe’s requirements. This control leads to perfectly cooked beef tips.
Resting the Meat
Allow the beef to rest after cooking. This practice lets the juices redistribute, resulting in more flavorful and tender meat before serving.
FAQ
What type of beef is best for crock pot recipes?
Cuts like chuck roast or beef tips are ideal for slow cooking, as they become tender and flavorful when cooked slowly.
Can I add vegetables to the crock pot?
Yes, adding vegetables is encouraged. Carrots, potatoes, and onions complement the beef and add nutritional value.
How long should I cook beef tips in the crock pot?
Cooking on low typically requires 6-8 hours, while cooking on high is usually done in 3-4 hours.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, cooked beef tips can be frozen. Ensure they are stored in an airtight container or freezer bag for best results.
How do I thicken the sauce after cooking?
To thicken the sauce, you can remove some liquid from the pot, mix it with cornstarch, and then return it to the pot during the last cooking phase.
Conclusion
The Crock Pot Beef Tips recipe delivers a satisfying and flavorful meal that is perfect for any occasion. With its tender beef and rich gravy, it’s an ideal dish for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend dinner. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a hearty experience that pairs well with a variety of sides.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Beef Stroganoff
Enhance your beef tips experience by transforming them into a creamy beef stroganoff, served over egg noodles or rice.
Honey Garlic Chicken
For a sweet and savory option, try honey garlic chicken made in the slow cooker, perfect for serving with steamed vegetables.
Vegetable Beef Soup
Turn leftovers into a comforting vegetable beef soup by adding broth, diced vegetables, and seasoning for a wholesome winter meal.
Sausage and Peppers
Try adding Italian sausage and bell peppers into the mix for a flavorful Italian-inspired dish that can be served with crusty bread.
Stuffed Peppers
Use the beef tips as a filling for stuffed bell peppers, topped with cheese and baked until bubbly for a delicious presentation.
Beef Tacos
Transform the beef tips into tasty beef tacos by shredding the meat and serving it in tortillas with your favorite toppings.
