Welcome to our kitchen, where the aroma of slow-cooked goodness fills the air! Today, we’re excited to share with you a delightful recipe for Slow Cooker Beef Tips.
This dish is perfect for busy days when you crave a hearty and comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With tender beef, rich flavors, and minimal effort, Slow Cooker Beef Tips will become a family favorite. So, grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients:
To create this mouthwatering dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds of beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Directions:
Follow these simple steps to create a flavorful and tender dish of Slow Cooker Beef Tips:
Step 1: Prep and Sear the Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil and allow it to heat up.
Season the beef stew meat with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the beef to the skillet in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sear the beef on all sides until browned. Remove the browned beef from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 2: Slow Cooker Magic
Place the diced onion and minced garlic in the slow cooker.
In a bowl, whisk together the beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Pour this mixture over the onions and garlic in the slow cooker.
Add the browned beef to the slow cooker and give everything a gentle stir to combine the ingredients.
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours. The beef should become tender and infused with flavors.
Step 3: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water together to create a slurry.
Remove the lid from the slow cooker and carefully stir in the cornstarch slurry. This will help thicken the sauce.
Cover the slow cooker again and cook for an additional 30 minutes on high heat or until the sauce has thickened.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Once the beef tips are tender and the sauce is thickened, it’s time to serve.
Spoon the beef tips and sauce over cooked egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, for a pop of color and freshness.
Recipe Tips and Variations
- For added depth of flavor, you can brown the beef stew meat in bacon fat instead of oil.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can increase the amount of cornstarch in the slurry. Start with an additional tablespoon and adjust to your desired consistency.
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the slow cooker along with the beef tips. Carrots, mushrooms, and bell peppers are great options that complement the dish beautifully.
Kitchen Equipment
To make Slow Cooker Beef Tips, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:
- Slow cooker
- Skillet
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small bowl
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely because this dish is irresistible!), here’s how you can store them:
- Allow the beef tips to cool completely.
- Transfer them to an airtight container or a sealable freezer bag.
- Refrigerate the leftovers for up to 3-4 days.
- To reheat, you can gently warm the beef tips in a skillet over low heat or microwave them in a microwave-safe dish.
Food and Drink Pairings
Slow Cooker Beef Tips pair wonderfully with various sides and beverages. Here are some suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Serve the tender beef tips over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes to soak up all the delicious sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus make for a flavorful and nutritious side dish that complements the rich flavors of the beef tips.
- Red Wine: Pair this hearty dish with a glass of your favorite red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, for a sophisticated and indulgent dining experience.
- Crusty Bread: Don’t forget to have some crusty bread on hand to mop up every last drop of the savory sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While beef stew meat is commonly used for slow cooker recipes, you can substitute it with chuck roast, sirloin, or any other cut suitable for slow cooking. Just make sure to cut it into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Can I make this recipe on the stovetop?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for stovetop cooking. Follow the same steps of searing the beef in a skillet, then transfer everything to a large pot. Simmer on low heat, covered, for 2-3 hours or until the beef is tender.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Certainly! Allow the beef tips to cool completely, then transfer them to freezer-safe containers or bags. Label them with the date and freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw the frozen beef tips overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.