When you’re in the mood for a hearty, comforting meal that’s easy to make and loaded with flavor, Tremendous Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles is the perfect dish. With minimal prep and the magic of slow cooking, tender beef tips simmer in a rich gravy that’s served over noodles, creating the ultimate comfort meal. It’s an ideal recipe for busy families or anyone who wants to enjoy a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
For a quicker version of this dish, try the Instant Pot Beef Tips and Noodles method, which delivers equally tender results in a fraction of the time.
What Are Beef Tips?
Beef tips are small chunks of beef cut from the tenderloin or sirloin, though some grocery stores label stew meat as beef tips. True beef tips are known for their tenderness and rich flavor, but stew meat, which comes from tougher cuts, becomes incredibly tender when cooked low and slow. Regardless of the cut, this dish works beautifully with the slow cooker method.
The slow cooking process breaks down the fibers in the meat, resulting in tender beef that absorbs all the flavors of the gravy. If you love the deep flavors that come with slow cooking, try pairing this dish with a side of Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken for a well-rounded meal.
Ingredients for Tremendous Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles
Creating this flavorful dish requires a few simple, wholesome ingredients that, when combined, result in a satisfying meal.
Core Ingredients:
- Beef stew meat or beef tips (2 lbs) – Tender and flavorful when slow-cooked.
- Beef broth (1 cup) – Adds richness and depth to the gravy.
- Worcestershire sauce (2 tablespoons) – Enhances the umami flavors.
- Soy sauce (optional, 1 tablespoon) – For added savory notes.
- Brown gravy mix (1 packet) – Thickens the sauce and adds robust flavor.
- Cream of mushroom soup (10.75 oz can) – Adds creaminess to the gravy.
- Onion (1 small, diced) – Adds sweetness and depth.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Provides a subtle, aromatic base.
- Egg noodles – Traditionally served with beef tips for a perfect balance of textures.
Optional Add-ins:
- Red wine – For a more luxurious, deep flavor.
- Mushrooms – To add texture and an earthy flavor.
- Carrots or peas – Adds color and nutrients, making it a more complete dish.
Ingredient Substitutions:
- Swap beef with tofu or seitan for a vegetarian version.
- Use cauliflower rice or mashed cauliflower instead of noodles for a low-carb alternative.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Beef Tips & Noodles
Here’s a step-by-step process to create a hearty, comforting meal with minimal effort:
1. Prepare the Beef
- Cut the beef tips into bite-sized pieces. If you have the time, lightly coat the beef with flour before browning it in a skillet. While this step is optional, it adds an extra layer of flavor and helps the sauce thicken during cooking.
2. Combine Ingredients
- In a bowl, whisk together the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce (if using), and brown gravy mix. Then stir in the cream of mushroom soup, diced onion, and minced garlic until well combined.
3. Load the Crockpot
- Place the beef tips into the crockpot and pour the sauce mixture over the top. Stir gently to ensure the beef is evenly coated. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.
4. Thicken the Gravy
- About 15 minutes before serving, whisk together 2 tablespoons of flour with ¼ cup of water to make a slurry. Stir this into the crockpot and cook for another 10-15 minutes to thicken the gravy.
5. Cook the Noodles
- While the gravy thickens, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the egg noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
- Spoon the beef tips and gravy over the cooked noodles. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color and added flavor.
Recipe Variations and Customizations
This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for numerous customizations to suit your taste and dietary preferences. Here are a few ideas to help you make this dish your own:
Low-Carb Version
For a healthier twist, replace the noodles with cauliflower rice or mashed cauliflower. This cuts down on carbs while still allowing you to enjoy the rich flavors of the beef and gravy.
Mushroom Lovers’ Beef Tips
Add sliced mushrooms to the crockpot along with the beef tips for a deeper, earthier flavor. The mushrooms will soak up the gravy and add extra texture to the dish.
Spicy Beef Tips
If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce to the gravy. This will give the dish a subtle kick that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the beef and noodles.
Vegetarian Beef Tips
For a meat-free version, substitute the beef with tofu or seitan and use a vegetable-based broth. The slow cooking process will still result in a rich, flavorful meal, perfect for vegetarians or anyone looking for a lighter option.
Serving Suggestions
While Tremendous Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles is delicious on its own, it pairs well with a variety of sides to create a well-rounded meal:
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slightly bitter, caramelized flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts complements the rich, savory beef tips.
- Garlic Green Beans: Sauté green beans with garlic for a fresh, crunchy side that cuts through the richness of the gravy.
- Salad: A light, crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette helps balance out the heavy flavors of the dish.
For more hearty dishes, consider serving this alongside Loaded Potato Soup, which provides an extra dose of comfort on a chilly night.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though Beef Tips & Noodles is a straightforward dish, there are a few common mistakes that could impact the final result. Avoid these pitfalls to ensure your meal turns out perfectly every time:
Overcooking the Noodles
One common mistake is overcooking the noodles, which can lead to a mushy texture. Be sure to cook your noodles separately and add them to the plate just before serving to preserve their bite.
Runny Gravy
If your gravy is too thin, you can thicken it by adding a little extra flour or cornstarch. Always dissolve the thickener in water before stirring it into the crockpot to prevent lumps.
Tough Beef
The beauty of this dish is its tenderness. To achieve melt-in-your-mouth beef, cook it on low for the full 7-8 hours. Don’t rush the process by turning up the heat, as this can result in tough, chewy beef.
FAQs
Can I make Beef Tips & Noodles ahead of time?
Yes! This dish stores well in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little extra broth if necessary to loosen the gravy.
Can I freeze Crockpot Beef Tips?
Absolutely. This dish freezes well for up to three months. To freeze, store the beef tips and gravy separately from the noodles. When ready to eat, thaw the beef tips in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop. Cook fresh noodles before serving.
What other cuts of beef can I use?
If you can’t find beef tips, you can use chuck roast, sirloin, or brisket. Just be sure to cut the meat into bite-sized pieces before adding it to the crockpot.
How can I thicken the gravy without flour?
If you prefer not to use flour, you can thicken the gravy with cornstarch or arrowroot powder. Simply mix it with water to create a slurry, and stir it into the crockpot during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking.
Conclusion
Tremendous Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. The tender, juicy beef tips and rich, flavorful gravy served over soft noodles create a meal that’s as satisfying as it is easy to prepare.
Whether you stick to the classic recipe or customize it to suit your taste, this dish is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. And for more delicious, comforting recipes, try pairing it with the creamy Crab Fettuccine Alfredo for a truly indulgent dinner experience.
Enjoy!