Crockpot beef tips & noodles

If you’re looking for a delicious, hearty meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor, Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles is the perfect dish. This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few ingredients and your trusty crockpot, you’ll have a satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Let’s dive into this simple yet mouth-watering recipe and explore some tips and variations to make it even better.

Why Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles is the Perfect Comfort Food

Comfort food is all about warmth, flavor, and a sense of home. Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles checks all these boxes. The slow-cooked beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, while the savory sauce made from onion soup mix, brown gravy, and cream of mushroom soup adds richness and depth. Combined with egg noodles, this dish is hearty enough to satisfy any appetite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb stew meat: This is the star of the dish, providing protein and a rich, beefy flavor.
• 1 pack of Lipton onion soup mix: Adds a savory, oniony taste that infuses the beef as it cooks.
• 1 pack of brown gravy mix: Enhances the richness of the sauce, giving it a deep, satisfying flavor.
• 1 can of cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz): This creamy base ties everything together, adding thickness and a mild mushroom flavor.
• 1 small can of mushrooms: Optional, but adds texture and a deeper mushroom taste.
• 1 can’s worth of beef broth: Use the cream of mushroom can to measure. This liquid keeps the beef moist and adds flavor as it cooks.
• Egg noodles: Serve as the base, soaking up all the delicious sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

To start, gather all your ingredients and set up your crockpot. Begin by adding the stew meat to the crockpot. Sprinkle the Lipton onion soup mix and brown gravy mix over the meat. Next, pour in the cream of mushroom soup and the can of mushrooms. Finally, fill the empty soup can with beef broth and pour it into the crockpot. Stir everything together to combine the ingredients well.

2. Cook the Beef

Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 8 hours. The long, slow cooking process is essential for breaking down the meat’s fibers, resulting in tender, flavorful beef tips. As the meat cooks, it will absorb the flavors from the onion soup mix, gravy mix, and mushrooms, creating a rich, savory sauce.

3. Cook the Egg Noodles

About 30 minutes before the beef is done, start cooking your egg noodles according to the package instructions. Once they’re cooked, drain them and set them aside. It’s best to add the noodles to the crockpot just before serving to prevent them from becoming too soft.

4. Combine and Serve

Once the crockpot cooking time is up, stir the cooked egg noodles into the beef and sauce mixture. Mix everything well to ensure the noodles are fully coated in the savory sauce. Serve the dish hot and enjoy the ultimate comfort meal!

Tips for Making the Perfect Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles

• Double the Meat: If you’re feeding a crowd or just want leftovers, consider using 2 lbs of stew meat. This won’t require any changes to the other ingredients, but it will make the dish even heartier.
• Noodle Texture: To avoid mushy noodles, add them to the crockpot right before serving. This keeps them firm and allows them to soak up the sauce without becoming overcooked.
• Make It Creamier: For an even richer sauce, you can add a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese towards the end of the cooking process. Stir it in until fully incorporated for a creamier texture.
• Vegetable Additions: Add some chopped carrots, celery, or even peas for extra nutrition and a pop of color. Simply toss them into the crockpot at the beginning of the cooking process.
• Thicker Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the crockpot lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This allows some of the liquid to evaporate, resulting in a thicker consistency.

Variations to Try

1. Garlic Lovers’ Version

Add a couple of minced garlic cloves to the crockpot for an extra layer of flavor. Garlic pairs perfectly with the beef and mushrooms, enhancing the dish’s overall taste.

2. Herb-Infused Beef Tips

For a fresh twist, toss in some fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley. These herbs add a fragrant aroma and complement the beef’s richness.

3. Spicy Kick

If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mix. The spice will cut through the richness and give the dish an exciting kick.

4. Gluten-Free Option

For those with dietary restrictions, you can easily make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free gravy mix and noodles. Most other ingredients should be naturally gluten-free, but always check labels to be sure.

Serving Suggestions

Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a few simple sides:

• Green Beans: A side of steamed or sautéed green beans adds a nice crunch and a burst of color to your plate.
• Mashed Potatoes: For an ultra-comforting meal, serve the beef tips over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes instead of noodles.
• Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce left on your plate.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the dish in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval to ensure even heating.

Can You Freeze Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles?

Yes! This dish freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep. To freeze, allow the beef tips and noodles to cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in a saucepan or microwave as described above.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Busy Families

One of the best things about this Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles recipe is how easy it is to make. With minimal prep and a slow cooking process that requires no supervision, it’s a perfect meal for busy families. You can set it up in the morning, go about your day, and come home to a delicious dinner that’s ready to serve.

Final Thoughts: The Versatility of Crockpot Meals

Crockpot meals like this one are incredibly versatile. You can easily customize the ingredients to suit your taste, double the recipe for leftovers, or freeze portions for future meals. Plus, they’re a lifesaver on busy days when you don’t have the time or energy to cook. So, next time you’re in need of a comforting, easy-to-make meal, give this Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles recipe a try. Your family will thank you, and you’ll love how simple it is to put together.

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