Crock Pot Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy
Ingredients:
- 1-3 pounds beef tips
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 package (0.87 oz) brown gravy mix
- 1 package (1 oz) onion soup mix
- 1 can (12 oz) Sprite or 7UP
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lb egg noodles, cooked according to package instructions
Instructions:
- Prepare the Crock Pot:
- Lightly grease the crock pot to prevent sticking.
- Season the Beef Tips:
- Season the beef tips with salt and pepper to taste. This will add depth of flavor to the dish.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, brown gravy mix, onion soup mix, and Sprite or 7UP. Mix well until the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Add Beef Tips:
- Place the seasoned beef tips in the crock pot.
- Pour Mixture Over Beef:
- Pour the mixed soup and soda mixture over the beef tips in the crock pot. Make sure the beef is well coated with the mixture.
- Cook on Low:
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6 hours. This slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld and the beef to become tender.
- Check for Doneness:
- About halfway through the cooking time, give the mixture a gentle stir to ensure even cooking. If needed, adjust seasoning at this point.
- Prepare Egg Noodles:
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, start preparing the egg noodles according to the package instructions.
- Serve:
- Once the beef tips are cooked and tender, serve them over the cooked egg noodles.
- Garnish (Optional):
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
- Enjoy!
- Serve this delicious and easy Crock Pot Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy over the egg noodles, and enjoy a comforting and hearty meal that your family will love!
This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also delivers a rich and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a satisfying dinner.
Making Crock Pot Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy is a delightful and convenient way to enjoy a flavorful dish. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your meal turns out perfect:
- Choose the Right Cut of Beef:
- Opt for a tender cut of beef, such as sirloin tips, stew meat, or chuck roast. These cuts work well in slow-cooking methods and become fork-tender.
- Sear the Beef:
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider searing the beef in a hot skillet before transferring it to the slow cooker. Searing helps lock in juices and enhances the overall taste.
- Season the Beef:
- Season the beef with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices before placing it in the slow cooker. This ensures that the meat is well-seasoned throughout the cooking process.
- Use Fresh Mushrooms:
- If possible, use fresh mushrooms for a robust flavor and meaty texture. Sauté the mushrooms in a bit of butter or oil before adding them to the slow cooker to enhance their taste.
- Homemade Mushroom Gravy Base:
- Consider making a homemade mushroom gravy base by sautéing onions and garlic before adding the mushrooms. Deglaze the pan with a splash of red wine or beef broth for added depth.
- Add Umami with Tomato Paste:
- Stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste to the gravy for an extra umami boost. Tomato paste adds richness and enhances the overall savory flavor of the dish.
- Low and Slow Cooking:
- The magic of the slow cooker happens with low and slow cooking. Cook the beef tips on low heat for several hours to achieve maximum tenderness.
- Thicken the Gravy:
- If the gravy needs thickening, make a slurry by mixing equal parts cornstarch and cold water. Stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a thicker consistency.
- Fresh Herbs for Finishing:
- Just before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme over the beef tips. Fresh herbs add brightness and freshness to the dish.
- Adjust Seasoning Before Serving:
- Taste the gravy before serving and adjust the seasoning if needed. This is your last chance to enhance flavors before enjoying the meal.
- Serve Over a Bed of Mashed Potatoes or Rice:
- Crock Pot Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles. The side dish absorbs the delicious gravy and completes the meal.
- Experiment with Wine:
- Consider deglazing the skillet with red wine before adding it to the slow cooker for a richer and more complex flavor. Choose a wine you enjoy drinking.
- Add Vegetables for Balance:
- Include vegetables like carrots or peas during the last hour of cooking for added flavor and nutrition. Ensure they are cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Garnish for Visual Appeal:
- Sprinkle a bit of finely chopped parsley or chives over the beef tips just before serving for a pop of color and visual appeal
