Elevate Your Dinner Game with Crockpot Beef Tips

Are you searching for a hearty and comforting meal that practically cooks itself? Look no further than Crockpot Beef Tips! This slow-cooked dish features tender chunks of beef simmered in a rich and flavorful gravy, resulting in a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or entertaining a crowd, this Crockpot Beef Tips recipe is a winner every time. Join us as we dive into the details of this delicious dish and learn how to make it right in your own kitchen!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds beef stew meat, cubed
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef: In a large bowl, combine the cubed beef stew meat with the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss until the beef is evenly coated with the seasoned flour mixture.
2. Brown the Beef: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned beef cubes in batches and cook until browned on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per batch. Transfer the browned beef to the crockpot.
3. Saute the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until softened and fragrant. Transfer the sauteed onions and garlic to the crockpot.
4. Prepare the Gravy: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and tomato paste. Pour the mixture over the beef and onions in the crockpot.
5. Cook Low and Slow: Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, or until the beef is tender and cooked through.
6. Thicken the Gravy (Optional): If desired, you can thicken the gravy by mixing cornstarch with a small amount of cold water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Once the beef tips are cooked to perfection, serve them hot over cooked rice, mashed potatoes, or egg noodles. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Cook Notes and Variations

• Vegetable Variation: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the crockpot along with the beef and onions. Carrots, potatoes, mushrooms, and bell peppers are all delicious additions.
• Creamy Version: For a creamy twist, stir in a can of condensed cream of mushroom soup or cream of celery soup during the last hour of cooking. This will add richness and depth to the gravy.
• Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor of the dish by adding fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves to the crockpot before cooking. Just be sure to remove the herbs before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use a different cut of beef such as sirloin, chuck roast, or round steak. Just be sure to cut the beef into bite-sized cubes for even cooking.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the beef tips and gravy mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator overnight. When ready to cook, simply transfer the mixture to the crockpot and follow the cooking instructions as directed.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?

A: Yes, you can freeze any leftover beef tips and gravy in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Q: Can I make this recipe on the stovetop instead of using a crockpot?

A: Yes, you can make this recipe on the stovetop by following the same instructions, but using a large pot or Dutch oven instead of a crockpot. Simmer the beef tips over low heat for 1-2 hours, or until the beef is tender.

Keto Version and Low Carb Version

Keto Version:

• Replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour for dredging the beef cubes.
• Serve the beef tips over cauliflower rice or mashed cauliflower instead of traditional rice or potatoes.
• Use xanthan gum as a thickener instead of cornstarch to keep the dish keto-friendly.

Low Carb Version:

• Omit the flour coating on the beef cubes and simply season them with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
• Use a low-carb beef broth or bone broth in place of regular beef broth to reduce the carb count.
• Serve the beef tips over spiralized zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a low-carb alternative to rice or pasta.

In conclusion, Crockpot Beef Tips are a delicious and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With their tender chunks of beef simmered in a savory gravy, they’re sure to become a new family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this easy-to-make dish is guaranteed to impress. So fire up your crockpot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a hearty and satisfying meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds!