Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and delivers big on flavor, then this Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles recipe is about to become your new favorite. Tender beef slow-cooked in a rich, savory gravy and served over soft, buttery noodles creates a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners, this recipe combines simple ingredients with slow cooking magic to give you a rewarding meal without hours spent in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No-fuss cooking: Toss everything in the crockpot and let it do the work while you focus on other things.
• Ultimate comfort food: The creamy gravy and tender beef make every bite rich and satisfying.
• Family-friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, it’s perfect for feeding a hungry crowd.
• Budget-friendly: Uses affordable ingredients that stretch into multiple servings.
• Versatile: Pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, making it easy to customize.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The simplicity of this recipe is part of its charm. Each ingredient plays an important role in bringing out the best flavors and textures, resulting in a perfectly balanced dish.

• Beef tips: Choose tender beef stew meat or sirloin tips for the best texture and flavor.
• Beef broth: Adds depth and richness to the gravy without overpowering the beef.
• Onion soup mix: A secret shortcut that infuses the dish with a savory, herby punch of flavor.
• Egg noodles: Soft, buttery noodles soak up the delicious gravy making every bite delightful.
• Sour cream: Stirred in at the end to create a creamy, tangy finish that brightens the dish.
• Butter and flour: Used to create a luscious gravy that thickens perfectly during cooking.

Variations for Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles

This Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles recipe is so easy to tweak based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences. Don’t hesitate to make it your own by trying these variations:

• Mushroom lovers: Add sliced mushrooms to the crockpot for an earthy, rich flavor boost.
• Low-carb option: Serve over cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini noodles instead of egg noodles.
• Extra veggies: Toss in carrots, celery, or bell peppers for more texture and nutrients.
• Spicy kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to bring subtle heat.
• Dairy-free version: Use coconut milk or a dairy-free sour cream substitute.

How to Make Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Tips

Trim any excess fat from the beef tips to keep the dish from getting greasy. Pat the beef dry with paper towels to help it brown better, which intensifies the flavor, although this step is optional if you’re short on time.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot

Place the beef tips in the slow cooker with beef broth and dry onion soup mix. Mix gently to coat the beef evenly. This combination acts as the flavor foundation.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Tender Perfection

Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until the beef is melt-in-your-mouth tender and the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 4: Prepare the Noodles

About 20 minutes before serving, cook egg noodles according to package instructions until tender but still firm. Drain and set aside.

Step 5: Make the Gravy Rich and Creamy

In a small bowl, mix softened butter and flour into a paste, then stir this roux into the crockpot. Add sour cream and mix well to achieve a silky gravy texture that coats the beef and noodles perfectly.

Step 6: Serve

Place a generous spoonful of beef tips and gravy over a bed of egg noodles and enjoy. Don’t forget to sprinkle with fresh herbs or cracked black pepper for an extra pop of flavor.

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles

• Brown the beef first: Searing beef tips before slow cooking adds extra depth of flavor and better texture.
• Use good-quality broth: A rich, low-sodium beef broth makes the gravy taste homemade and hearty.
• Don’t overcook noodles: Prepare noodles just before serving to avoid sogginess in this dish.
• Thickening the gravy: Adjust the butter-flour mixture amount based on your preferred gravy thickness.
• Add sour cream last: Stir it in off heat to avoid curdling and keep the sauce creamy.

How to Serve Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley, chives, or thyme on top for a burst of color and fresh herb flavor that brightens the richness of the dish.

Side Dishes

Pair Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread to round out the meal while balancing textures and freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the beef tips and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or even creamy polenta for a twist, or use wide egg noodles stacked for a rustic, homestyle look.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The beef will stay tender, but be sure to keep noodles separate if possible to prevent them from soaking up too much gravy.

Freezing

This dish freezes well when kept without noodles. Freeze the beef tips and gravy in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water to loosen the gravy if it thickens too much during storage.

FAQs

Can I use other types of beef for Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles?

Yes! While stew meat or sirloin tips are ideal for tenderness, chuck roast cut into chunks also works great for slow cooking and adds rich flavor.

Do I need to brown the beef before slow cooking?

Browning the beef is optional but recommended for deeper flavor and better texture. Skip it if you’re short on time—your dish will still be delicious.

Can I use a different type of noodle?

Absolutely! Egg noodles are traditional, but you can also use fettuccine, pappardelle, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Use coconut milk or a plant-based sour cream alternative, and substitute butter with a dairy-free margarine or oil to keep it creamy without dairy.

What’s the best way to thicken the gravy?

Mix butter and flour into a roux and stir it into the crockpot near the end of cooking. You can also thicken with cornstarch slurry if preferred.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like a warm plate of Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles to comfort your soul on a busy day or chill evening. With minimal prep, simple ingredients, and massive flavor, this recipe is a true keeper in any home cook’s collection. Go ahead, give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create a classic, satisfying meal that feels like it’s been simmering all day in grandma’s kitchen.

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