Crockpot beef tips & noodles

Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles is the ultimate comfort meal, combining tender beef tips with savory gravy and hearty noodles. This recipe makes for an easy, set-it-and-forget-it dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, you can create a delicious, homestyle dish that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this dish delivers rich flavor with every bite.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds beef stew meat or beef tips
• 1 packet (1 ounce) onion soup mix
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 ounces egg noodles
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crockpot:
Spray the inside of your crockpot with non-stick cooking spray for easy cleanup.

2. Add the Ingredients:
Place the beef tips or stew meat in the crockpot. Add the onion soup mix, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir gently to combine.

3. Cook the Beef Tips:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and the flavors are well-blended.

4. Prepare the Noodles:
About 30 minutes before serving, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

5. Combine Beef and Noodles:
Once the beef is fully cooked, taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Add the cooked noodles to the crockpot and gently stir to coat them in the savory sauce.

6. Serve and Garnish:
Scoop the beef tips and noodles onto plates or into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Tips

• Serve with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme adds a pop of color and enhances the dish’s savory flavors.
• Pair with Vegetables: Serve alongside steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or sautéed spinach for a balanced meal.
• Add a Side of Bread: Crusty bread or soft dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up the delicious gravy.
• Top with Cheese: For a rich twist, sprinkle grated Parmesan or a dollop of sour cream on top before serving.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerating Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of beef broth to prevent the noodles from drying out.
• Freezing: To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a bit more broth or water to achieve the desired consistency. Alternatively, microwave individual portions in 1-minute intervals until hot.

These tips will help keep Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles fresh and flavorful, making it easy to enjoy as leftovers or a make-ahead meal!

Variations

1. Add Vegetables

• Mushrooms – Add sliced mushrooms to the crockpot with the beef for an earthy flavor that complements the gravy.
• Carrots and Celery – For extra heartiness, add chopped carrots and celery when you start cooking for added flavor and nutrition.
• Peas – Stir in a handful of peas during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a pop of color and slight sweetness.

2. Use Different Types of Noodles

• Egg Noodles Substitute – Swap egg noodles with pappardelle, rotini, or bowtie pasta for a change in texture.
• Gluten-Free Pasta – If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta or rice noodles.

3. Switch Up the Sauce

• Creamy Version – For a creamier sauce, stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or sour cream during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
• Red Wine Sauce – Add ½ cup of red wine to the crockpot for a richer, deeper flavor.
• Herb-Infused Gravy – Try adding rosemary or thyme for a more robust, herbaceous taste.

4. Change the Protein

• Chicken Tips & Noodles – Use chicken breast or thighs instead of beef for a lighter version. Adjust the cooking time as needed to prevent overcooking.
• Pork Tips – Pork stew meat or pork shoulder can be used to create a different flavor profile that’s still tender and delicious.

5. Try Serving Over Different Bases

• Mashed Potatoes – Instead of noodles, serve the beef tips and gravy over creamy mashed potatoes.
• Rice or Cauliflower Rice – For a lighter option, ladle the beef tips and gravy over rice or cauliflower rice.
• Polenta – Serve the beef tips over creamy polenta for a unique, comforting base.

6. Add Some Spice

• Pepper Jack Cheese – Stir in shredded pepper jack cheese at the end for a creamy, spicy twist.
• Chili Flakes or Hot Sauce – Add a pinch of chili flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to bring a little heat to the dish.
• Cajun Seasoning – For a Southern twist, sprinkle in some Cajun seasoning for added flavor depth and spice.

These variations allow you to personalize Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles to fit your taste preferences and make it an adaptable, versatile dish for any occasion!

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of meat besides beef stew meat?

Yes, you can use other cuts like chuck roast, cut into cubes, or sirloin tips. These cuts work well in slow-cooked recipes and will become tender after hours of cooking.

2. Can I make this recipe with frozen beef?

Yes, but it’s best to thaw the beef before adding it to the crockpot. Starting with frozen beef may affect the cooking time and texture, and it could take longer to cook fully.

3. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Common additions include mushrooms, carrots, celery, or peas. Add them at the beginning of cooking to ensure they’re tender by the end.

4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes. To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free onion soup mix, ensure the cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free, and substitute the egg noodles with a gluten-free pasta option.

5. Can I cook this on the stovetop instead of a crockpot?

Yes, you can cook this dish on the stovetop. Simmer the beef and other ingredients in a large pot over low heat for about 1-2 hours or until the beef is tender, then add the cooked noodles.

6. How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you’d like a thicker sauce, add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water) to the crockpot 30 minutes before serving. Stir well and let it thicken before adding the noodles.

7. Can I use fresh mushrooms instead of canned cream of mushroom soup?

Yes! Sauté about 1 cup of fresh mushrooms in a bit of oil until tender, then add them to the crockpot. You can also add extra broth or cream if needed for more sauce.

8. How long do leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored 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 beef broth if needed.

9. Can I freeze Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles?

Yes, you can freeze this dish. Allow it to cool completely, then freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

10. What should I do if the noodles are too soft?

To prevent soggy noodles, cook them separately and add them just before serving. If they’ve already softened too much, consider serving the beef tips and gravy over mashed potatoes or rice as an alternative.

Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles is a satisfying, comforting meal that requires little effort but delivers big flavor. This recipe is a go-to for busy days, allowing you to come home to a warm, savory dish that’s ready to enjoy. Whether you’re new to crockpot cooking or a seasoned pro, this easy meal will quickly become a family favorite.

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