This crockpot beef tips and noodles recipe is the perfect hearty meal for a chilly day. It combines tender beef tips with delicious egg noodles in a rich, flavorful gravy. This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal effort, making it ideal for busy weeknights. It is also a great dish to bring to potlucks or family gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Beef Tips and Noodles Recipe
There are several reasons why this recipe will become a family favorite. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. Furthermore, the slow cooker does most of the work. Simply add the ingredients, set it, and forget it. Additionally, the beef tips become incredibly tender and flavorful during the slow cooking process. The gravy is rich and savory, perfectly complementing the beef and noodles. It’s also a very satisfying and comforting meal.
The History of Beef Tips and Noodles
Beef tips and noodles is a classic comfort food dish with humble origins. Typically, it evolved as a way to utilize tougher cuts of beef. Moreover, slow cooking methods tenderize the meat. Consequently, the practice enhances its flavor. Additionally, the dish gained popularity during the Great Depression as an affordable and filling meal. Families would often use homemade noodles to stretch the dish further. The dish has remained a staple in American cuisine. As a result, it appears in various regional variations. It has been adapted for modern cooking methods like the slow cooker.
Key Ingredients
To make this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Beef Tips: 2 pounds, cut into 1-inch cubes.
- Egg Noodles: 16 ounces, wide or medium width.
- Beef Broth: 4 cups, low sodium preferred.
- Onion: 1 medium, chopped.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: 1 can (10.75 ounces).
- Worcestershire Sauce: 2 tablespoons.
- Soy Sauce: 1 tablespoon.
- Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon.
- Dried Rosemary: 1 teaspoon.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste.
- Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste.
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon.
- Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons.
- Cold Water: 1/4 cup.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and comforting meal:
Step 1: Sear the Beef Tips
First, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Subsequently, add the beef tips and sear on all sides until browned. This step adds flavor and texture to the beef. Afterward, transfer the seared beef tips to the crockpot.
Step 2: Add Remaining Ingredients
Next, in the crockpot, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Then, stir everything together to combine.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Beef Tips
Now, cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef tips are very tender. The longer they cook, the more tender they will become. Therefore, checking for tenderness is key.
Step 4: Cook the Egg Noodles
About 30 minutes before serving, cook the egg noodles according to the package directions. Drain the noodles and set aside.
Step 5: Thicken the Gravy
In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth. This creates a slurry. Afterward, pour the slurry into the crockpot and stir well. Next, turn the crockpot to high and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Finally, add the cooked egg noodles to the crockpot and stir to combine with the beef tips and gravy. Serve hot and enjoy this hearty meal. Furthermore, consider garnishing with fresh parsley for added flavor and visual appeal.
Tips for the Best Crockpot Beef Tips and Noodles
Here are some tips to ensure your crockpot beef tips and noodles turn out perfectly every time:
- Sear the Beef: Searing the beef tips before adding them to the crockpot enhances their flavor and texture. This step is crucial for a rich, savory dish.
- Use Low Sodium Broth: Using low sodium beef broth allows you to control the saltiness of the dish. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Add the cooked noodles to the crockpot just before serving to prevent them from becoming mushy. Overcooked noodles can ruin the texture of the dish.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the gravy before adding the noodles and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs to your liking.
- Thicken the Gravy: If the gravy is not thick enough, you can add more cornstarch slurry. Be sure to mix the cornstarch with cold water to prevent clumping.
Serving Suggestions
This crockpot beef tips and noodles recipe is a complete meal on its own, but here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
Side Salad: Serve with a simple green salad or a Caesar salad. The freshness of the salad balances the richness of the dish.
Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping into the delicious gravy. A baguette or sourdough bread works well.
Mashed Potatoes: For an even more hearty meal, serve over mashed potatoes. The creamy potatoes complement the beef and gravy.
Steamed Vegetables: Add some steamed broccoli, green beans, or carrots for a nutritious side dish. These vegetables add color and nutrients to the meal.
Variations and Add-ins
Want to customize your crockpot beef tips and noodles? Here are some variations and add-ins to try:
- Add Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions and garlic for added flavor and texture.
- Use Different Herbs: Experiment with different herbs such as bay leaf, oregano, or parsley.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate diced carrots, celery, or potatoes for a heartier meal.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Version: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or heavy cream at the end for a creamier gravy.
Making Crockpot Beef Tips and Noodles in Advance
Yes, you can make this dish in advance. Prepare the beef tips and gravy as directed. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the beef tips and gravy in the crockpot or on the stovetop. Cook the noodles separately just before serving to prevent them from becoming mushy.
Storing and Reheating
Store leftover crockpot beef tips and noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. Add a splash of beef broth or water if the gravy has thickened too much.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 450 |
| Protein | 35g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 5g |
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
FAQs about Crockpot Beef Tips and Noodles
Can I put dry noodles in the crockpot?
It is generally not recommended to put dry noodles directly into the crockpot because they can absorb too much liquid and become mushy. Therefore, it is best to cook the noodles separately and add them to the crockpot just before serving.
What is the difference between beef tips and stew meat?
Beef tips are typically cut from the sirloin or tenderloin, making them more tender and flavorful. Stew meat, on the other hand, can come from various tougher cuts of beef that require longer cooking times to become tender. Consequently, both can be used in this recipe, but beef tips generally provide a better texture. If you’re looking for another hearty meal, try this tender venison roast recipe.
What is the best cut of beef for beef and noodles?
The best cuts of beef for beef and noodles are typically those that become tender when slow-cooked, such as sirloin tips, chuck roast, or even tenderloin. These cuts have enough marbling to stay moist and flavorful during the long cooking process.
How long does it take to cook noodles in a slow cooker?
Cooking noodles directly in a slow cooker is not recommended because they tend to overcook and become mushy. If you choose to cook noodles in the slow cooker, add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking time. However, cooking them separately on the stovetop is the best way to maintain their texture.
Enjoy Your Crockpot Beef Tips and Noodles
This crockpot beef tips and noodles recipe is a comforting and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender beef tips, rich gravy, and perfectly cooked noodles, it’s a meal that the whole family will love. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy a delicious and satisfying dinner tonight. Complete your comforting meal with a delightful dessert or brunch idea like a quick Bisquick waffle recipe for a sweet treat. Don’t forget to share your own tips and variations in the comments below!
Crockpot Beef Tips and Noodles
Equipment
- Crockpot
- Large Skillet
- Small Bowl
Ingredients
Beef Tips
- 2 pounds beef tips cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Gravy & Noodles
- 16 ounces egg noodles wide or medium width
- 4 cups beef broth low sodium preferred
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.75 ounces)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper or to taste
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 cup cold water
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef tips and sear on all sides until browned. Transfer the seared beef tips to the crockpot.
- In the crockpot, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together to combine.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef tips are very tender.
- About 30 minutes before serving, cook the egg noodles according to the package directions. Drain the noodles and set aside.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth. Pour the slurry into the crockpot and stir well. Turn the crockpot to high and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened.
- Add the cooked egg noodles to the crockpot and stir to combine with the beef tips and gravy. Serve hot and enjoy!