Weeknight dinners don’t get easier than a slow cooker meal. These beef tips come out tender and flavorful with a rich, savory gravy. Let your slow cooker do the work while you go about your day.
- Cuisine: American
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 hours
- Total Time: 7 hours 10 minutes
- Servings: 6
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hands-off cooking: The slow cooker does the work, giving you perfectly tender beef.
- Rich flavors: The blend of herbs and creamy mushroom soup creates a robust gravy.
- Economical: Uses affordable beef tips for a hearty meal.
- Easy to store: Leftovers reheat well for lunch or dinner the next day.
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons oil: Used for browning the beef, adding depth of flavor.
- 2 pounds beef steak tips: Choose well-marbled cuts for tenderness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the beef’s natural flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic: Adds a subtle garlic note throughout. Substitute with fresh minced garlic if desired.
- 1/2 teaspoon Cantanzaro herbs or Italian seasoning: Provides a fragrant herbal note. Substitute with a mixture of dried basil, oregano, and thyme if needed.
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Offers a mild, peppery kick. Adjust to taste.
- 1 cup beef bone broth: Deepens the savory flavor profile and aids in forming the gravy.
- 1 (10.5 ounce) can cream of mushroom soup (98% fat-free 50% lower sodium): Acts as a creamy base for the gravy. Substitute with condensed cream of chicken for a different flavor twist.
- 1 (0.87 ounce) packet brown gravy mix: Thickens and enriches the sauce effortlessly.
- 8 ounces button mushrooms, cleaned and quartered: Adds a hearty texture and earthy flavor.
How to Make It
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef tips, ensuring they are in a single layer, and sear until browned on all sides. This step locks in moisture and enhances flavor through caramelization. Transfer the beef to your slow cooker.
Step 2: Season and Assemble
Sprinkle the salt, granulated garlic, Italian seasoning, and black pepper over the beef. Even seasoning ensures each bite is flavorful. Layer the button mushrooms on top, then pour in the beef bone broth, cream of mushroom soup, and sprinkle in the brown gravy mix. Stir gently to combine without disturbing the mushrooms’ placement.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Tenderness
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 7 hours. This extended cooking time allows the beef to become fork-tender, absorbing the rich flavors of the gravy.
Step 4: Thicken and Serve
Once cooking is complete, stir the mixture to evenly distribute the gravy. If you prefer a thicker consistency, set the slow cooker to high, uncovered, for an additional 20 minutes to allow extra liquid to evaporate. Serve hot over mashed potatoes or rice.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use another type of beef?
Yes, you can substitute beef chuck roast cut into cubes if steak tips are unavailable. The cooking time and instructions remain the same.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles, as they soak up the delicious gravy. Add a simple green salad on the side for a complete meal.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if the gravy needs loosening.
