Slow Cooker Beef Tips are a comforting and flavorful meal that is easy to prepare. With tender beef sirloin, mushrooms, and a rich sauce, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making this delicious recipe.
Ingredients
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 8 oz baby Bella mushrooms, sliced
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into strips, excess fat trimmed
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ cup dry red wine + splash for deglazing
- 2-½ cups fat-free beef broth
- 2 tbsp corn starch + ¼ cup cold water, whisked together
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Slice the Onion and Mushrooms:
- Slice 1 small onion and 8 oz of baby Bella mushrooms. Set aside.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
- Heat the Oil:
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Season and Sear the Beef:
- Season the 1 lb sirloin steak strips with salt and pepper. Add the beef strips to the skillet and sear on all sides until browned. This will help lock in the flavors.
- Deglaze the Pan:
- Once the beef is seared, add a splash of dry red wine to the skillet to deglaze the pan. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet for added flavor.
Step 3: Transfer to Slow Cooker
- Transfer Ingredients:
- Transfer the seared beef, sliced onion, and mushrooms to the slow cooker.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
- Mix the Sauce Ingredients:
- In a bowl, combine 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, ¼ cup dry red wine, and 2-½ cups fat-free beef broth. Pour this mixture over the beef and vegetables in the slow cooker.
Step 5: Cook the Beef Tips
- Slow Cook:
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender.
Step 6: Thicken the Sauce
- Thicken with Corn Starch:
- About 30 minutes before serving, whisk together 2 tbsp of corn starch and ¼ cup of cold water. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker to thicken the sauce.
Step 7: Serve
- Serve the Beef Tips:
- Once the sauce has thickened, serve the beef tips over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. Enjoy the tender, flavorful dish!
Cook Notes and Variations
Cook Notes:
- Searing the Beef: Searing the beef before adding it to the slow cooker adds extra flavor to the dish. However, if you’re short on time, you can skip this step.
- Red Wine: Use a good quality dry red wine for the best flavor. If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with additional beef broth.
Variations:
- Herb Additions:
- Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the slow cooker for added flavor.
- Vegetable Variations:
- Include additional vegetables such as carrots or bell peppers for more texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, you can use other cuts of beef such as chuck roast or stew meat. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
3. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze Slow Cooker Beef Tips. Allow the dish to cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
4. What can I serve with Beef Tips?
Serve the beef tips over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. They also pair well with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad.
5. Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this recipe on the stovetop. After searing the beef, add the remaining ingredients to a large pot. Simmer on low heat for about 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
The Comforting Delight of Slow Cooker Beef Tips
Slow Cooker Beef Tips are a comforting and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender beef, mushrooms, and a rich sauce, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality beef will enhance the flavor of the dish.
- Sear the Beef: Searing the beef before adding it to the slow cooker adds extra depth of flavor.
- Thicken the Sauce: Make sure to whisk the corn starch and water together well before adding it to the slow cooker to avoid lumps.
Slow Cooker Beef Tips are a delicious and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With their rich flavor and tender texture, these beef tips are sure to become a favorite. Try this recipe for your next dinner and enjoy a comforting and satisfying meal. Happy cooking!