Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Tender Noodles Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Beef Tips Noodles

Imagine coming home to a warm, hearty meal that’s ready with minimal fuss that’s the magic of crockpot beef tips noodles. This recipe is perfect for busy parents and working professionals who want a delicious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. With tender beef that soaks up rich flavors, it’s a dish that brings everyone to the table smiling.

One of the best parts is how it packs in health benefits, offering protein from the beef to keep you energized and satisfied. You can tweak it easily for diet-conscious folks, like making it lower in calories or swapping for gluten-free options. Plus, its versatility means it’s not just for one occasion but can be a go-to recipe for family dinners or quick weeknight eats.

This crockpot beef tips noodles stands out for its comforting, savory taste that makes every bite feel special. Whether you’re a student looking for an easy meal or a food enthusiast exploring new ideas, it’s simple yet impressive. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe a favorite for home cooks everywhere.

Key Reasons It Appeals to Everyone

For busy parents, the ease of preparation shines through since you can set it and forget it. Home cooks appreciate how it supports wellness goals with wholesome ingredients. Students and newlyweds find it budget-friendly and customizable, making it a smart choice for various lifestyles.

Imagine the aroma filling your kitchen as it cooks slowly, creating a welcoming vibe. This meal also adapts well for seniors who prefer softer textures, ensuring it’s enjoyable for all ages. Travelers and food lovers can experiment with tweaks to mimic global flavors right at home.

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Essential Ingredients for Crockpot Beef Tips Noodles

Getting the ingredients right is key to making a tasty crockpot beef tips noodles dish. This section lists everything you need, based on the core recipe, to ensure your meal turns out perfect. We’ll focus on precise measurements to help you shop and cook with ease.

  • 2 pounds (approximately 900g) lean stewing beef, cubed
  • 1 can (10 3/4 ounces / approximately 305g) condensed cream of mushroom soup (regular or low-fat)
  • 1 envelope (1 1/4 ounces / approximately 35g) dry onion soup mix
  • 1 envelope (1 ounce / approximately 28g) dry mushroom gravy mix or beef gravy mix
  • 3/4 cup (approximately 180ml) beef broth (you can optionally mix in up to 1/4 cup / 60ml Burgundy wine with 1/2 cup / 120ml broth for added flavor)
  • 1 cup (approximately 70g) sliced mushrooms (these can be left whole or halved for the best texture)
  • 1/2 medium onion, chopped
  • 12 ounces (approximately 340g) wide egg noodles (to be cooked separately)

These ingredients come together to create a rich, savory gravy that coats the beef perfectly. Remember, using exact measurements helps avoid any surprises in the final dish. For those watching their sodium, consider the tips we’ll cover later on substitutions.

Why These Ingredients Work Well

Each item plays a role in building flavor and nutrition. The beef provides a hearty protein base, while the soups and broth add depth without much effort. Fresh veggies like mushrooms and onion bring in natural tastes that enhance the overall meal. This setup makes crockpot beef tips noodles a balanced option for many diets.

How to Prepare the Perfect Crockpot Beef Tips Noodles: Step-by-Step Guide

Whipping up crockpot beef tips noodles is straightforward and fun, starting with gathering your supplies. Begin by prepping the beef and veggies to set yourself up for success. Follow these steps to enjoy a meal that’s tender and full of flavor.

  1. Place the 2 pounds of cubed beef in the slow cooker to get things started.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together the can of condensed cream of mushroom soup, the envelope of dry onion soup mix, and the envelope of dry gravy mix until smooth.
  3. Stir in the 3/4 cup of beef broth, and if you want extra zest, add up to 1/4 cup of Burgundy wine mixed with the rest of the broth.
  4. Mix in the 1 cup of sliced mushrooms and the chopped 1/2 medium onion to blend the flavors.
  5. Pour this mixture over the beef in the slow cooker, making sure everything is well coated.
  6. Cover and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until the beef is tender and juicy.
  7. While the beef cooks, prepare the 12 ounces of egg noodles as per the package instructions in a separate pot, then drain them.
  8. Serve the beef and gravy hot over the cooked noodles for a complete dish.

The total preparation time is about 3 hours and 15 minutes, giving you plenty of time to relax. This method ensures the beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender. For more ideas on beef dishes, check out our similar beef pasta recipes that pair well with this one.

Tips for Smooth Cooking

Keep an eye on the cooking time to get the best results, as overcooking can affect texture. Stir occasionally if possible, though it’s mostly hands-off. If you’re new to slow cooking, this recipe is a great starting point for mastering crockpot beef tips noodles.


Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Crockpot Beef Tips Noodles

Making crockpot beef tips noodles fit your needs is simple with a few swaps. Whether you’re aiming for a lighter meal or something plant-based, these changes keep the dish delicious. Start with protein alternatives to mix things up while keeping the recipe easy.

  • Swap beef tips with chicken thighs for a lighter protein option that cooks just as well.
  • Use lentils or kidney beans as plant-based alternatives to create a vegan version full of heartiness.
  • Substitute tofu or tempeh for a versatile twist that absorbs flavors nicely.

For vegetable and seasoning tweaks, try replacing mushrooms with bell peppers or zucchini based on what’s in season. Use tamari instead of other sauces for gluten-free options, and add herbs like smoked paprika for a fresh kick. These adjustments help control sodium and enhance the taste of your crockpot beef tips noodles.

Seasoning Ideas

Experiment with low-sodium broths and fresh garlic to keep things healthy. Adjusting these elements makes the dish adaptable for baking enthusiasts or those watching their diet. It’s all about making crockpot beef tips noodles work for you.

Mastering Crockpot Beef Tips Noodles: Advanced Tips and Variations

Taking your crockpot beef tips noodles to the next level involves some pro techniques that enhance flavor and texture. For instance, searing the beef before adding it to the cooker locks in juices and adds a deeper taste. Don’t forget to deglaze the pan with broth to capture those tasty bits for an extra flavorful base.

Play around with flavors by tossing in smoked paprika or rosemary to give the dish a unique twist. A splash of red wine can also deepen the complexity, much like the optional Burgundy in the ingredients. When it’s time to serve, top it with chopped parsley or a bit of grated cheese for a polished look.

For make-ahead meals, prepare the beef mixture ahead and store it in the fridge, then add noodles later to keep everything fresh. These tricks make every bite of crockpot beef tips noodles memorable and encourage you to get creative in the kitchen. If you love trying new beef recipes, visit our garlic butter steak recipes for more inspiration.

Teknik Benefit
Searing beef Improves texture and flavor
Adding herbs Enhances taste variety
Make-ahead prep Saves time on busy days

More Variation Ideas

Try serving over mashed potatoes instead of noodles for a change. These advanced steps help busy parents and food enthusiasts alike enjoy crockpot beef tips noodles with less effort and more wow factor.

How to Store Crockpot Beef Tips Noodles: Best Practices

Proper storage keeps your crockpot beef tips noodles fresh and safe to eat later. Always cool the dish before putting it away to maintain quality. Store in airtight containers and pop it in the fridge right after cooking.

For freezing, divide into meal-sized portions to make reheating easy. Use freezer-safe bags or containers to lock in flavors. When you’re ready to eat, reheat on the stovetop with a little broth to keep it moist and tasty.

Meal prep is a game-changer for working professionals, as you can batch cook and freeze individual servings. This way, you have a quick, comforting meal ready for any day. Following these steps ensures your crockpot beef tips noodles stays delicious even after storage.

Crockpot Beef Tips Noodles

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot Beef Tips Noodles

Should I use one or two gravy packets in Crockpot beef tips noodles?

Use only one gravy packet, either mushroom or beef, as stated in the original ingredient list. Using both can cause the dish to taste too salty. Pair the chosen gravy packet with mushroom soup and beef broth to maintain balanced flavor. Adjust seasoning at the end if needed.

Can I skip the onion soup mix and use fresh onions instead to reduce salt?

Yes, you can substitute fresh diced onions for the onion soup mix to lower sodium. Use about one medium onion, finely chopped, and add garlic or herbs for extra flavor. Keep in mind the onion soup mix also adds seasoning, so taste and adjust your dish seasoning accordingly.

What can I use if I don’t have gravy or onion soup packets?

For gravy substitute, mix beef broth with a tablespoon of cornstarch or flour to thicken. To replace onion soup mix, combine dried onion flakes, garlic powder, beef bouillon, and a pinch of black pepper. These homemade blends provide similar flavor without packaged additives.

Can I add raw noodles to the crockpot with the beef tips?

It’s best not to add raw noodles at the start because they may become mushy. Instead, cook the beef tips and sauce first, then add uncooked noodles about 30 to 45 minutes before serving. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

How do I thicken the broth if it’s too thin?

To thicken the broth, mix 1 to 2 tablespoons of cornstarch or flour with cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the crockpot during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking. Let it simmer until it reaches your desired consistency. Avoid adding thickener too early to prevent clumping.

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Crockpot Beef Tips Noodles


  • Author: Brandi Oshea
  • Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 to 6 servings

Description

🍲 Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Tender Noodles provide a hearty and comforting meal with tender beef simmered in a rich gravy sauce.
🍜 This easy slow cooker recipe pairs perfectly with egg noodles for a satisfying and hands-off dinner option.


Ingredients

– 2 pounds lean stewing beef, cubed

– 1 can (10 3/4 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup (regular or low-fat)

– 1 envelope (1 1/4 ounces) dry onion soup mix

– 1 envelope (1 ounce) dry mushroom gravy mix or beef gravy mix

– 3/4 cup beef broth

– up to 1/4 cup Burgundy wine for added flavor (optional)

– 1/2 cup beef broth (optional, mixed with Burgundy wine)

– 1 cup sliced mushrooms

– 1/2 medium onion, chopped

– 12 ounces wide egg noodles (to be cooked separately)


Instructions

1-Place the 2 pounds of cubed beef in the slow cooker to get things started.

2-In a bowl, whisk together the can of condensed cream of mushroom soup, the envelope of dry onion soup mix, and the envelope of dry gravy mix until smooth.

3-Stir in the 3/4 cup of beef broth, and if you want extra zest, add up to 1/4 cup of Burgundy wine mixed with the rest of the broth.

4-Mix in the 1 cup of sliced mushrooms and the chopped 1/2 medium onion to blend the flavors.

5-Pour this mixture over the beef in the slow cooker, making sure everything is well coated.

6-Cover and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until the beef is tender and juicy.

7-While the beef cooks, prepare the 12 ounces of egg noodles as per the package instructions in a separate pot, then drain them.

8-Serve the beef and gravy hot over the cooked noodles for a complete dish.

Notes

🍷 Adding Burgundy wine enhances flavor; browning beef before slow cooking deepens taste.
🧂 Use only one type of gravy mix to control saltiness; fresh onions can substitute onion soup mix.
🥄 For thicker sauce, stir in 3 tablespoons Minute tapioca during last hour of cooking.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook time: 3 hours
  • Cook Time: 3 to 6 hours
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Slow cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving

Keywords: Slow cooker beef tips, Beef stew, Comfort food, Easy dinner

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