Let me tell you, there’s nothing like coming home to the tantalizing aroma of a hearty meal waiting for you after a long day. That’s why this Easy Crockpot Beef Tips and Noodles has become a staple in our house. I remember the first time I made it; my husband walked through the door, and you could see the joy on his face even before he took a single bite! It’s one of those recipes that not only filled our bellies but also brought us together around the dinner table.
I usually throw this together on a busy morning, and it’s such a breeze. With just a few ingredients, I can set it up, head out, and then forget about it until dinnertime. The trick is using a slow cooker; it does all the work for you. Plus, there’s a certain warmth in knowing that you’ve cooked something from scratch, even when life gets hectic.
The kids love it, too. One of them is a picky eater, but there’s something about the tender beef and rich gravy served over noodles that makes them come running. Each bite is a tease of flavors and textures that warms your heart and belly! So grab your apron and let’s dive into this delicious recipe together; I promise it’s easy to follow and utterly satisfying. Your family will thank you for it!
How to Make Crockpot Beef Tips and Noodles
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Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef tips
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 3 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 packets low-sodium brown gravy mix (0.87 oz each)
- 2 tbsp beef bouillon paste (or 2 beef bouillon cubes)
Directions
Start by lightly coating your crockpot with nonstick cooking spray. This will help prevent anything from sticking.
Season the beef tips with salt and pepper, and add them to the crockpot. Make sure they are well-coated.
Next, pour in the beef broth along with the Worcestershire sauce and minced garlic. Sprinkle in the bouillon paste and the brown gravy mix.
Gently stir everything together, then place the lid on the crockpot. Cook on low for 6-8 hours until the beef is really tender. If you’re short on time, you can cook on high for 4-6 hours instead, but I always find the low-and-slow method yields the best results.
When the beef is done, give everything a good stir to help the gravy thicken up. It’s that simple!
Serve your savory beef tips over a bed of mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles for a comforting meal that your family will love. Enjoy!
Storing Suggestion
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish also freezes quite well. To freeze, let it cool completely, then store in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Cooking Tips
If you’re looking to enhance the flavor, consider adding some chopped onions or mushrooms to the crockpot. They add depth to the dish. If you have a red wine on hand, a splash can be a lovely addition to the broth for more richness. You could also opt for cornstarch mixed with water to thicken the gravy if you prefer a richer consistency.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a side of steamed green beans or a simple garden salad for a refreshing crunch. For a cozy feel, serve it with warm, crusty bread to dip in the flavorful gravy. And don’t forget a chilled glass of iced tea or lemonade to complete your meal!
Ingredient Substitutions
If you’re out of beef broth, chicken broth works in a pinch. For a thicker gravy, you can use a can of cream of mushroom soup instead of gravy packets. Additionally, if you prefer a different protein, this recipe works well with chunks of chicken too! Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Seasonal Variations
In the fall, add some diced pumpkin or squash for a seasonal twist. You could use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary in the winter for an added layer of warmth and flavor. In the summer months, a splash of fresh lemon juice can brighten up the dish beautifully, along with fresh vegetables like peas or corn.
Allergen Information
This recipe is generally free from major allergens except for gluten, due to the brown gravy mix. You can use gluten-free gravy packets if needed. Be sure to check labels on the beef bouillon, as some products may contain gluten or other allergens. Always double-check ingredients based on your dietary restrictions.
FAQ
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Absolutely! While beef tips work great for this recipe, you can also use chuck roast cut into cubes or even sirloin steak. Both options will yield a deliciously tender result after slow cooking.
What if I don’t have a crockpot?
If you don’t have a crockpot, you can still make this dish on the stovetop. Just use a heavy pot with a lid, simmer gently on low heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours until the beef is tender, stirring occasionally.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes! Feel free to toss in some chopped carrots or potatoes along with the beef. Just be sure to cut them into smaller pieces so they cook evenly within the same time frame as the beef.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes! This meal freezes wonderfully. Just allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you like a kick, you can add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce into the mix. You can also consider adding sliced jalapeños to the crockpot for additional heat.
What should I serve with beef tips?
This dish goes wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. You can also add a side of green vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the beef and gravy.
Crockpot Beef Tips and Noodles
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef tips
- 1 cup reduced-sodium beef broth
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 3 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 2 packets low-sodium brown gravy mix each 0.87 oz
- 2 tbsp beef bouillon paste or 2 cubes of beef bouillon
Instructions
- Spray your crockpot with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
- Season the beef tips with salt and pepper, then place them into the crockpot.
- Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and minced garlic. Add the bouillon and gravy mix.
- Give everything a gentle stir, cover with the lid, and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours until the beef is incredibly tender. You can also cook on high for 4-6 hours, but slow-cooking will make the meat more tender.
- Once the beef is fully cooked and tender, stir the contents again to help the gravy thicken.
- Serve your delicious beef tips over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles, and enjoy!
