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This Crockpot Beef Tips and Noodles is pure comfort in a bowl. Tender, slow-cooked beef tips bathed in a flavorful, rich gravy served generously over tender egg noodles make it the ultimate cozy dinner. It fills the kitchen with irresistible aromas and warms you from the inside out, perfect for those relaxed evenings when all you want is a hearty, satisfying meal.
I first made this to soothe a chilly winter evening but it quickly became synonymous with family comfort food, bringing everyone to the table eagerly every time.
Ingredients You Need
- Two pounds of beef stew meat or beef tips: tender, juicy bites Choose cuts that have marbling as it helps keep the meat moist when slow-cooked
- One medium onion: diced finely for sweetness and depth
- Three cups of beef broth: to build a rich and hearty gravy opt for low sodium if you want to control salt levels
- One packet of onion soup mix: which adds instant savory layers and seasoning
- Two tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce: for tangy umami magic
- Three cloves of garlic: minced fresh garlic enhances aroma and flavor
- Quarter cup of all-purpose flour: to thicken the gravy gently without clumping
- Two tablespoons of olive oil: used for searing to lock in juices and develop flavor
- Twelve ounces of egg noodles: which provide a comforting base absorb the luscious sauce beautifully
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Fresh parsley: chopped for a pop of color and freshness optional but highly recommended
Detailed Cooking Directions
- Build The Flavor Base:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the seasoned beef tips until they develop a deep golden crust. This locking in flavor while creating richness in the gravy. Transfer the beef to your slow cooker.
- Sauté Aromatics:
- Using the same skillet, sauté diced onions and minced garlic until softened and fragrant. This step ensures every layer of flavor carries warmth and sweetness. Add them directly to the Crockpot with the beef.
- Mix The Gravy:
- In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, onion soup mix, Worcestershire sauce, and flour. The flour here acts as a gentle thickening agent for a luscious sauce texture. Pour this mixture over the beef and onions in the Crockpot evenly.
- Slow Cook To Perfection:
- Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until the beef is tender and the gravy has thickened beautifully. The slow cooker nurtures the beef to melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.
- Cook The Noodles:
- About 30 minutes before you plan to serve, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and prepare the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Serve And Garnish:
- Spoon the tender beef tips and the rich gravy over the bed of egg noodles. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top to brighten the dish and serve immediately.
One of my favorite tricks is to let the beef tips rest in the crockpot a bit after cooking to help the juices redistribute. This recipe always brings back memories of weekend family dinners when everyone gathered around the table sharing stories with bowls full of warmth and comfort.
Smart Storage Tips
Store leftover beef tips and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Keep the noodles separate to prevent them from soaking up too much sauce and becoming mushy. Reheat gently on the stovetop to preserve the tender texture of the beef and freshness of the gravy.
Ingredient Variations
Swap beef tips for cubed chuck roast for a budget-friendly alternative that is equally flavorful when slow-cooked. For a richer gravy, add a splash of red wine or a tablespoon of tomato paste to the broth mixture before cooking. Fresh mushrooms added in the last hour of cooking provide great texture and earthiness.
Perfect Pairing Ideas
Serve with steamed green beans or roasted carrots to balance the richness with fresh, crisp veggies. A simple mixed green salad with a lemon vinaigrette provides a bright contrast. Warm crusty bread is fantastic for sopping up every last bit of the savory gravy.
This recipe has been a Saturday night staple in my family for years. It was always the dish that marked the end of a busy week, bringing everyone together around our worn kitchen table. The aroma filled the house, signaling it was time to relax and enjoy a meal full of love and tradition.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What cut of beef is best for slow cooking?
Beef stew meat or beef tips are ideal as they become tender and flavorful during slow cooking.
- → How can I thicken the gravy?
Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water and stir it into the cooking liquid in the last 30 minutes.
- → Can I prepare this dish without a Crockpot?
Yes, you can simmer the beef and gravy in a heavy pot on low heat for several hours, stirring occasionally.
- → What noodles work best with this dish?
Egg noodles are traditional and soak up the gravy nicely, but wide pasta or pappardelle can also be used.
- → How can I enhance the dish's flavor?
Searing the beef before slow cooking adds depth. Fresh garlic, onions, and Worcestershire sauce also boost the savory notes.
- → Is it possible to add vegetables to this meal?
Yes, green beans or a simple side salad pair well and complement the hearty beef and noodles.