Beef Tips Recipe In Crock Pot

Introduction

Beef tips, those flavorful, bite-sized pieces of beef, are a beloved comfort food enjoyed across the United States and beyond. A “beef tips recipe in crock pot” is particularly popular due to its ease of preparation and the incredible tenderness it imparts to the meat. The slow cooking process allows the beef to become exceptionally succulent and flavorful, making it a favorite for busy weeknights and relaxed weekend meals alike. This method transforms tougher cuts of beef into a melt-in-your-mouth delicacy with minimal effort.

Ingredients

The core ingredients for a delicious crock pot beef tips recipe are simple yet impactful:

Beef Tips: Approximately 2-3 pounds. Sirloin tips or chuck roast, cut into 1-inch pieces, work well.
Beef Broth: 4 cups. This forms the base of the flavorful sauce. Chicken broth can be used as a substitute, although it will alter the flavor profile slightly.
Onion: 1 large, chopped. Yellow or white onions are suitable.
Garlic: 2-3 cloves, minced. Garlic powder (1 teaspoon) can be substituted in a pinch.
Worcestershire Sauce: 2 tablespoons. Adds depth and umami. Soy sauce (1 tablespoon) can be used as an alternative.
Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons. Contributes to richness and color.
Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon. For searing the beef. Vegetable oil works too.
Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon. Adds a savory herb note.
Dried Rosemary: 1/2 teaspoon. Complements the beef flavor.
Salt and Pepper: To taste.
Optional: Carrots (1 cup, chopped), celery (1 cup, chopped), mushrooms (8 ounces, sliced). These add flavor and nutrients.
Optional Thickener: Cornstarch (1-2 tablespoons) mixed with cold water (2-4 tablespoons) to create a slurry for thickening the sauce at the end of cooking.

Preparation Steps

Proper preparation is key to maximizing the flavor of the beef tips.

Trim the Beef: Remove any excess fat or silver skin from the beef tips. This ensures a more tender result.
Season the Beef: Generously season the beef tips with salt and pepper. This is crucial for developing a good crust when searing.
Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef tips in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sear on all sides until browned. Searing creates a flavorful crust and helps to seal in the juices.
Saut Aromatics: In the same skillet, saut the chopped onion until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Deglaze the Pan: Pour a small amount of beef broth into the skillet and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. These browned bits add immense flavor to the sauce.

Tip: Searing the beef is a crucial step for flavor development. Do not skip it!

Cooking Instructions

The magic happens in the slow cooker!

Combine Ingredients: Transfer the seared beef tips, sauted onions and garlic, and deglazed pan juices to the crock pot.
Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Add the optional carrots, celery, and mushrooms if desired.
Stir Well: Stir all the ingredients together to ensure the beef tips are submerged in the liquid.
Slow Cook: Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The beef tips should be very tender and easily shredded with a fork.
Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If a thicker sauce is desired, remove the beef tips from the crock pot using a slotted spoon. Stir the cornstarch slurry into the remaining liquid in the crock pot. Cook on high for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your liking.
Return Beef Tips: Return the beef tips to the crock pot and stir to coat with the thickened sauce.

Recommended Times and Temperatures:

Low Setting: 6-8 hours
High Setting: 3-4 hours

Serving Suggestions

Crock pot beef tips are incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways:

Over Mashed Potatoes: A classic pairing! The rich gravy soaks beautifully into the creamy potatoes.
With Egg Noodles: Another comforting and satisfying option.
Over Rice: White rice, brown rice, or even wild rice complement the flavors.
In Sandwiches or Sliders: Shred the beef tips and serve them on toasted rolls with a spoonful of the gravy.
With Polenta: A hearty and flavorful combination.
As a Topping for Baked Potatoes: A delicious and filling meal.
Garnishes: Fresh parsley, chopped green onions, or a dollop of sour cream add a touch of freshness and visual appeal.

Tips and Common Mistakes

Here are some tips to elevate your crock pot beef tips and avoid common pitfalls:

Don’t Overcrowd the Pan When Searing: Searing in batches ensures proper browning and prevents the beef from steaming instead of browning.
Don’t Skip the Searing Step: Searing adds significant flavor and texture.
Adjust Seasoning at the End: Taste the sauce towards the end of cooking and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Don’t Overcook: Overcooked beef tips can become dry and stringy. Check for tenderness after the recommended cooking time and adjust accordingly.
Use a Meat Thermometer (Optional): For precise doneness, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 190-200F for maximum tenderness.
Degrease the Sauce (Optional): If the sauce is too greasy, use a spoon to skim off any excess fat from the surface after cooking.
Add Vegetables Later: If adding vegetables, consider adding them halfway through the cooking time to prevent them from becoming mushy.

Explore More Cooking Guides

The “beef tips recipe in crock pot” is a simple yet rewarding culinary endeavor, delivering a flavorful, tender, and comforting meal that is sure to please. Its ease of preparation, adaptability to different tastes, and cultural significance make it a staple in many homes. So, gather your ingredients, follow these instructions, and enjoy the delightful experience of creating a memorable dish. Discover the joy of transforming simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece. For more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration, visit foodrecipestory.com and continue your culinary adventure!