Tools Needed, Serving Size, and Cooking Time

Tools Needed

• Crockpot or slow cooker
• Mixing spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Pot for cooking noodles

Serving Size

This recipe serves approximately 4 people. If you need more, it’s easy to double the ingredients.

Cooking Time

• Preparation: 10 minutes
• Cooking: 8 hours on low
• Total: 8 hours and 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb stew meat (or 2 lbs for heartier portions)
• 1 packet Lipton onion soup mix
• 1 packet brown gravy mix
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 small can mushrooms (optional)
• 1 can beef broth (use the empty cream of mushroom can for measurement)
• Egg noodles (amount depends on preference)

Steps to Prepare Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients and ensure your stew meat is trimmed and ready to use. Measure out the soup mix, gravy mix, and liquids for easy assembly.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot

Place the stew meat, onion soup mix, brown gravy mix, cream of mushroom soup, mushrooms (if using), and beef broth into the crockpot. Use a mixing spoon to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.

Step 3: Slow Cook the Beef Tips

Set your crockpot to low heat and cook the mixture for 8 hours. This slow cooking process ensures the beef becomes tender and absorbs the rich flavors of the sauce.

Step 4: Prepare the Egg Noodles

About 15 minutes before the beef tips are done, bring a pot of water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.

Step 5: Serve

Once the beef tips are cooked and tender, serve them over the cooked egg noodles. Garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color, if desired.

Recommendations for Recipe Success

1. Choose Quality Stew Meat: Using fresh, well-marbled beef will enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
2. Don’t Skip Mixing: Thoroughly mixing the ingredients in the crockpot ensures even cooking and consistent flavor.
3. Adjust for Larger Portions: If using 2 lbs of meat, you can keep the same measurements for the other ingredients for a richer dish.
4. Customize the Mushrooms: If you’re not a fan of canned mushrooms, fresh sliced mushrooms are a great alternative.
5. Experiment with Noodles: While egg noodles are traditional, this recipe also works well with rice or mashed potatoes.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Tips

• Serve the beef tips and noodles hot, topped with a sprinkle of parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
• Pair with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the beef tips (without noodles) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or beef broth to maintain the sauce’s consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can substitute stew meat with chuck roast or sirloin. Just ensure the meat is cut into bite-sized pieces.

2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free onion soup mix, gravy mix, and noodles. Double-check all labels for hidden gluten.

3. What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?

You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or cream of celery soup for a slightly different flavor.

4. Can I cook this on high heat?

If you’re short on time, you can cook the beef tips on high for 4 to 5 hours. However, the meat may not be as tender as when cooked on low.

5. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Carrots, peas, or green beans are great additions that can be added halfway through the cooking process.

Conclusion

Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles is a comforting, easy-to-make recipe that’s perfect for busy days or when you want a delicious, home-cooked meal. The tender beef, savory sauce, and satisfying noodles come together for a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you stick to the original recipe or customize it to suit your tastes, this meal is bound to become a favorite. Ready to try it out? Gather your ingredients and let your crockpot do the magic!