Slow Cooker Beef Tips With Gravy

This Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Gravy recipe is a delightful comfort food that transforms a simple cut of beef into a tender and flavorful dish. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish showcases the ease of slow cooking while delivering rich flavors. Whether served over mashed potatoes or noodles, it’s sure to be a hit at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Simply brown the beef and mushrooms, then let the slow cooker do all the work.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of beef consomme and seasonings creates a savory gravy that enhances the beef’s taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or even rice for a comforting meal.
• Budget-Friendly: Utilizing lean round steak makes this dish affordable without sacrificing flavor.
• Feeds a Crowd: With 8 servings, it’s perfect for family meals or potlucks.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools to ensure smooth preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Heavy Skillet
• Measuring Cups
• Measuring Spoons
• Wooden Spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: This appliance allows for hands-off cooking, making meals easy and convenient.
• Heavy Skillet: Ideal for searing meat evenly and achieving that rich brown color essential for flavor.
• Measuring Cups: Ensure precise ingredient amounts for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

For the Beef Tips

• 2 Tablespoons Neutral oil (vegetable or Canola oil works well here)
• 2 pounds Choice Beef Top Round Steak (Can be labeled as London Broil)
• 16 ounces Button Mushrooms (Baby Bella, wiped clean and quartered)

For the Gravy

• 21 ounces Beef Consomme Soup (concentrated, 2-10.5 ounce cans)
• 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
• 1/2 cup Red apple vinegar
• 1/2 can Water (to swirl around in the cans for flavor)
• 2 Tablespoons Soy Sauce
• 3 Tablespoons Flour
• 3 Tablespoons Butter

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Tips With Gravy

Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. Heat oil in a large heavy skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Brown beef chunks on two sides in batches to avoid overcrowding. Remove from skillet once seared.

Step 2: Sear the Mushrooms

1. Clean mushrooms with a damp paper towel and cut them into quarters.
2. Sear mushrooms in the same skillet until they start to brown, stirring frequently.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

1. Place browned beef tips and sautéed mushrooms into the slow cooker.
2. Add remaining ingredients except for flour and butter; these will be used later for gravy.
3. Cook on low for 6 hours.

Step 4: Prepare the Gravy

1. Two hours before cooking time ends, melt butter in a small frying pan over medium heat.
2. Add flour to melted butter, stirring constantly until it turns caramel color.
3. Scrape roux mixture into the slow cooker and continue to cook for two more hours.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Gravy over mashed potatoes or egg noodles for a comforting dinner that’s sure to please everyone at your table!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Tips With Gravy

Serving Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Gravy can elevate your dining experience. This rich and hearty dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes that complement its flavors.

Over Mashed Potatoes

• The creamy texture of mashed potatoes absorbs the savory gravy perfectly, making each bite delightful.

With Egg Noodles

• Tender egg noodles provide a comforting base for the beef tips and soak up the delicious sauce, enhancing the meal’s richness.

On a Bed of Rice

• Fluffy white or brown rice serves as a neutral backdrop that balances the dish’s bold flavors while providing added texture.

In a Sub Sandwich

• For a fun twist, serve the beef tips in a crusty sub roll topped with extra gravy and sautéed onions for a hearty sandwich option.

With Crusty Bread

• A side of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the gravy, adding an enjoyable texture to your meal.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Beef Tips With Gravy

Perfecting your Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Gravy is easy with a few simple tips. Following these suggestions will enhance both flavor and texture.

• Brown the meat well: Properly searing the beef tips before slow cooking adds depth of flavor and improves overall taste.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Taste the gravy towards the end of cooking; feel free to add more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
• Use quality beef: Selecting choice cuts like top round steak will yield more tender results. Look for well-marbled pieces for best flavor.
• Incorporate vegetables: Adding carrots or celery can enhance both nutrition and flavor, giving your dish more complexity.
• Thicken the gravy to preference: If you prefer a thicker gravy, let it cook longer after adding the roux until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking will help meld flavors together even more.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Beef Tips With Gravy

Pairing side dishes with Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Gravy can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this hearty main course:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic are a classic side that pairs beautifully with rich gravy.

2. Steamed Green Beans
   Crisp-tender green beans add freshness and color to your plate while balancing out the meal’s heaviness.

3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Roasting brings out natural sweetness in Brussels sprouts, providing a nice contrast to savory beef tips.

4. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, creating a refreshing balance alongside the warm beef dish.

5. Creamed Spinach
   This rich side dish offers creaminess that complements the robust flavors of beef tips while adding nutritional value.

6. Baked Sweet Potatoes
   The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes pairs well with savory beef, making them a nutritious option.

7. Cornbread Muffins
   Soft cornbread muffins are great for soaking up extra gravy and add a touch of sweetness to each bite.

8. Crispy Potato Wedges
   Seasoned potato wedges offer crunchiness that contrasts nicely with tender beef tips and their savory sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Slow cooking can be a simple and rewarding experience, but it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls.

• Not browning the beef: Skipping the searing step can lead to less flavor. Always brown the beef before adding it to the slow cooker for a richer taste.
• Overcrowding the slow cooker: Placing too much meat in the pot can prevent even cooking. Stick to the recommended amount for best results.
• Using low-quality meat: Choosing a tough cut will result in chewy beef tips. Opt for good quality top round steak for tenderness.
• Failing to measure ingredients accurately: Incorrect measurements can alter the dish’s flavor and consistency. Use measuring tools for precise amounts.
• Ignoring cooking times: Cooking for too long or too short can affect texture. Follow the specified time closely for optimal results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Beef tips can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker Beef Tips With Gravy

• Allow the beef to cool completely before freezing.
• Place in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, and they will last up to 3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Beef Tips With Gravy

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place beef in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer portions into a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in intervals, stirring until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Gravy.

How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Beef Tips With Gravy?

It takes about 6 hours on low heat for tender beef tips with gravy.

Can I use other cuts of beef?

Yes, you can use other cuts like chuck roast or sirloin if you prefer different textures or flavors.

What do I serve with Slow Cooker Beef Tips With Gravy?

These delicious beef tips pair well with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for a hearty meal.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Carrots, potatoes, and peas make great additions that complement the flavors nicely.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Gravy is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings. Try this easy dish today; it’s sure to become a family favorite!