Cozy Crockpot Beef Tips in Rich Gravy
Cozy Crockpot Beef Tips In Rich Gravy
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Recipe Introduction: Cozy Crockpot Beef Tips in Rich Gravy
Anyone else just crave proper comfort food when the weather turns a bit grim? honestly, that's exactly what sparked this crockpot beef tips recipe.
It's like a big hug in a bowl. it's all about that rich, savory gravy enveloping perfectly tender beef.
What’s the Story Behind These Cracking Beef Tips?
This recipe is heavily inspired by the kind of hearty fare you'd find in a traditional british pub. think simple, delicious, and utterly satisfying.
The low and slow cooking makes the beef fall-apart tender.
Plus, easy dinner recipe crockpot is my middle name these days! this is seriously straightforward. prep is minimal, and your trusty slow cook dinner pot does the rest.
It takes about 20 minutes to prep, then 6- 8 hours on low (or 3-4 on high). you'll end up with enough to feed 6 hungry souls.
Why You'll Absolutely Love These Beef Tips
These crockpot beef tips are packed with protein. that will keep you full and happy. it's ideal for a cozy family sunday dinner or a comforting meal on a chilly weeknight.
What makes this extra special? the rich, flavorful gravy, of course! it's proper lush.
Now, alright, let's get this sorted . Time to gather our bits. Here is the ingredients list, keep scrolling!
Right then, let's dive into what you'll need to whip up these amazing crockpot beef tips . we're talkin' proper comfort food here.
This is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner crockpot creation, guaranteed to warm you right up!
Ingredients & Equipment
Main Ingredients for Beefy Goodness
Alright, let's get this sorted . Here's what you'll need for your Crockpot Dinner Beef :
- Beef Tips: 2 lbs (900g) , cubed. Chuck roast works a treat. Quality is key. Look for good marbling in the beef for maximum flavour. Marbling gives all the flavour!
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons .
- Yellow Onion: 1 large , chopped. About 200g.
- Garlic: 2 cloves , minced.
- Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon .
- Dried Rosemary: 1 teaspoon .
- Salt: ½ teaspoon .
- Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon .
- All-Purpose Flour: 2 tablespoons .
- Beef Broth: 2 cups (475ml) . Proper beef broth, mind you!
- Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon . Adds a lovely depth.
- Tomato Paste: 1 tablespoon .
- Bay Leaf: 1 , for that subtle aromatic punch.
- Optional - Mushrooms: 1 cup (235g) , sliced (cremini or button).
- Optional - Heavy Cream: ¼ cup (60ml) , for extra indulgence.
- Optional - Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (for thickening).
- Fresh Parsley: To garnish.
Seasoning Notes: The Magic Touch
The thyme and rosemary combo is a game-changer! it's a taste of home. i reckon the worcestershire sauce is what gives it that extra oomph .
If you're out, try a splash of soy sauce in a pinch, you know? it'll add a similar savory depth.
Think of comfort food crockpot , that's the ticket
Essential spices are thyme and rosemary.
Flavor enhancers are Worcestershire sauce and bay leaf.
For the substitution option, soy sauce in a pinch if Worcestershire sauce is not at hand
Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple
You really don't need a whole lot of fancy gear for this easy dinner recipe crockpot .
- Large Skillet: For searing the beef.
- Slow Cooker (Crockpot): The star of the show!
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
If you haven't got a skillet, a large frying pan will do just fine. Honestly, slow cook dinner is all about convenience!
Alright, let's get this sorted. fancy a proper crockpot beef tips recipe that's dead easy and tastes like a sunday roast hug? this one’s a winner.
It is a easy dinner recipe crockpot , so don't be scared. it's just the ticket.
Cozy Crockpot Beef Tips in Rich Gravy
This is proper comfort food crockpot , no messing about. inspired by classic british pub fare, these beef tips are slow-cooked to tender perfection in a rich, savory gravy.
Honestly, it's a crockpot dinner beef type dish. think of it. the low and slow cooking process allows the beef to become incredibly tender, infusing it with the deep flavours of onion, garlic, and beef broth.
It's the kind of dish that makes you want to curl up on the sofa with a good book. based on the recipe and those you've given me, here's a list of 10 that'll help someone find this "crockpot beef tips" recipe in the digital pub.
Prep Steps - Getting Your Ducks in a Row
Essential mise en place: first, chop 1 large yellow onion (approx. 200g). mince 2 cloves of garlic. cube 2 lbs (900g) beef tips into roughly 1-inch pieces.
Get your 2 tablespoons of olive oil , thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, flour, beef broth, worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, and a bay leaf ready.
Oh my gosh, the smells already! i just found a cool fact related. the slow cooker was invented in the 1970s.
It gained popularity as a time-saving kitchen appliance.
Time-saving organization tips: chop the onion and garlic ahead of time. you know, just pop them in a container in the fridge.
It'll save you precious minutes later. i usually do this after work, it’s honestly a lifesaver!
Safety reminders: Always wash your hands after handling raw meat. No one wants a dodgy tummy. Don't overcrowd the pan while searing the beef or the meat won't brown properly.
Step-by-Step Process - Right, Let's Get Cooking!
- Sear the Beef: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season beef tips with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Sear in batches until browned on all sides. Transfer to the slow cooker.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until softened. About 5 minutes. Add minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary; cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Make the Gravy Base: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the onion mixture and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in 2 cups (475ml) beef broth, scraping up browned bits. Add 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce and 1 tablespoon tomato paste. Bring to a simmer.
- Combine and Slow Cook: Pour the gravy mixture over the beef tips in the slow cooker. Add the bay leaf. Cook on low for 6- 8 hours , or on high for 3- 4 hours , until tender.
- Add Mushrooms (Optional): During the last hour, stir in 1 cup (235g) sliced mushrooms.
- Adjust Gravy (Optional): Remove bay leaf. If the gravy is too thin, whisk 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water. Stir into the slow cooker. Cook until thickened. Stir in 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream if desired.
- Serve: Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Pro Tips - Secrets from My Kitchen
Expert techniques: don't skip searing! it locks in flavour. for extra tender beef, use chuck roast. it's got the perfect marbling for a slow cook dinner .
I tried using sirloin tip before, and it came out a bit tougher. you know?
Common mistakes: overcrowding the pan when searing. it steams the beef instead of browning it. use a good quality beef broth.
Avoid low quality ones, it is one of the worst. it'll make a huge difference in flavor. trust me on this one, i've learned my lesson.
Make-ahead options: You can prep the veggies and sear the beef the night before. Store separately in the fridge. It’s all about easy weeknight dinner crockpot , and this makes it even easier!
So there you have it – a beef and noodles in crockpot style dish without the noodles. get ready for some serious comfort food.
You absolutely have to try this beef tips and gravy recipe !
Right then, alright, let's get this sorted , eh? we've got our crockpot beef tips bubbling away. but what next? this section is all about making them even better.
Based on personal taste, of course.
Recipe Notes for Your Best Crockpot Beef Tips Yet
Think of this as your cheat sheet to Crockpot Beef Tips perfection. Easy dinner recipe crockpot meals need a little flair, don't they?
Serving Suggestions: Plating Like a Pro (or Not!)
Honestly, presentation matters. even if it's just for your instagram! beef and noodles in crockpot ? serve it in a shallow bowl.
Top with fresh parsley. got guests? a dollop of creamy mash on the side looks proper fancy. my other half reckons these tips are amazing with creamy mashed potatoes – classic, innit? complementary sides or beverages , think about a green veg, maybe some steamed broccoli.
As for drinks, a nice red wine would do the trick or a pint of your favourite ale.
Storage Tips: No Wasting Allowed
Leftovers are your best friend. refrigeration guidelines say, pop those crockpot dinner beef tips in an airtight container. three to four days, tops.
Freezing options ? absolutely! make sure they're completely cool first. then freeze for up to three months. label and date, so you don't end up with mystery meat later.
Reheating instructions ? gently reheat on the hob, or in the microwave. add a splash of broth if they're looking dry.
Variations: Get Your Chef On!
Fancy a tweak? a splash of red wine gives it a fancy crock pot beef bourguignon vibe. for a dairy-free version, skip the heavy cream and use coconut cream instead.
Want a slow cook dinner perfect for autumn. swap out the beef broth for apple cider. try adding chunks of swede and carrot, too!
Nutrition Basics: Food is Fuel
Look, i'm no dietitian. simplified nutrition information : these are beef tips and gravy recipe , so expect protein and some carbs.
Don't be scared. you get a decent dose of iron from the beef. key health benefits ? well, protein helps build muscles.
It keeps you feeling full. remember everything in moderation!
So there you have it! with this recipe, you can create a comfort food crockpot . these extra notes, make your crockpot beef tips even more special.
Remember to have fun in the kitchen. after all, cooking should be enjoyable, not stressful. now, go on, get cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make sure my crockpot beef tips are really tender? No one wants chewy beef!
Achieving fall-apart tenderness is key to great crockpot beef tips! First, don't skip the searing step, as it locks in juices. Secondly, ensure you're using a cut like chuck roast, which benefits from low and slow cooking. And finally, patience is your friend! Cook them on low for the full 6-8 hours; trust me, it’s worth it. Letting the beef rest for 10-15 minutes before serving also helps retain moisture, ensuring tender, juicy results.
My gravy is a bit thin. How can I thicken the gravy for these crockpot beef tips?
A thin gravy is easily fixed, no worries! The best way is to make a slurry of 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir this into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking, and let it simmer until thickened. Alternatively, you could remove some of the liquid from the slow cooker and whisk it with a tablespoon of flour before returning it to the pot, ensuring there are no lumps (like a good Yorkshire Pudding!).
Can I freeze leftover crockpot beef tips? Will they still taste alright?
Absolutely, freezing is a great way to enjoy these another day! Let the beef tips cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. They might lose a tiny bit of texture, but the flavour will still be spot on – almost like a proper Sunday Roast reheated!
What are some good side dishes to serve with these cozy crockpot beef tips in rich gravy?
These beef tips are incredibly versatile! For a classic, comforting meal, serve them over mashed potatoes or creamy polenta – proper comfort food, innit? Egg noodles are also a fantastic choice for soaking up all that delicious gravy. If you're looking for something lighter, steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or a simple side salad would be lovely additions. Bangers and Mash, anyone?
I'm watching my carbs. Are there any substitutions I can make to this recipe for Crockpot beef tips?
Definitely! To reduce carbs, skip the flour when making the gravy and use a cornstarch slurry instead, as mentioned above. Serve the beef tips over cauliflower mash, roasted vegetables, or zucchini noodles instead of potatoes or pasta. You can also find low-carb bread for dipping in the gravy (a right treat!). Also, remember that the recipe contains sugar, which is naturally contained within tomato paste!
Can I adapt this Crockpot Beef Tips recipe to use a different cut of beef? What works best?
You certainly can! While beef tips are ideal, chuck roast is a readily available and affordable option that works wonderfully. Cut it into 1-inch cubes just like you would the beef tips. Sirloin tip is another great choice, although it's a bit leaner so you might want to add a tablespoon of butter to the slow cooker for extra richness. Avoid tougher cuts like brisket unless you plan to cook it for a significantly longer time.
