Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy
Fall-apart tender beef tips simmered in a rich, savory mushroom gravy. This set-it-and-forget-it slow cooker recipe delivers deep, complex flavor with minimal effort, making it a perfect comfort food dinner for any night of the week.
Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Large Skillet
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 3 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1 inch pieces
- 1 1/2 cups beef stock
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms
- 1 onion, peeled and diced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley, for garnishing optional
Instructions
Sear the Beef and Build the Flavor Base
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Working in batches to avoid crowding the pan, sear the beef stew meat on all sides until a deep brown crust forms, about 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer the browned beef to your slow cooker as it's done.
- Add the sliced mushrooms, diced onion, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, dried thyme, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper to the slow cooker, scattering them over the beef.
Add Liquid and Slow Cook Until Tender
- Pour the beef stock into the slow cooker and stir gently to combine all ingredients. Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours or on HIGH for 4 hours, until the beef is very tender.
Thicken the Gravy and Finish
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of cold water to create a smooth slurry. Stir the slurry into the slow cooker. Continue to cook, uncovered, for another 10-15 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
For the most tender results, use a chuck roast cut into cubes and cook on low for the full 8 hours. Don't skip searing the beef; it builds essential flavor for the gravy. Serve over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice to soak up every drop of the delicious gravy. Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Nutrition information is estimated based on common ingredients and serving sizes and may vary.