There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty meal that’s both easy to make and full of rich, comforting flavors. Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Noodles is a classic dish that brings together tender beef, a savory gravy, and perfectly cooked noodles for a meal that satisfies every craving. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a comforting meal on a chilly evening, this recipe is a must-try. With minimal prep and a hands-off cooking process, it’s perfect for busy families or anyone who loves a home-cooked meal without the hassle.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6–8 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes – 8 hours 10 minutes
- Servings: 4–6
Ingredients
For the Beef Tips and Gravy:
- 1 lb stew meat (or 2 lbs for extra beefy goodness!)
- 1 packet Lipton onion soup mix
- 1 packet brown gravy mix
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons water (if using cornstarch)
For the Noodles:
- 12 oz egg noodles
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for added richness)
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Start by spraying your slow cooker with a non-stick cooking spray or lightly greasing it with oil. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Step 2: Assemble the Ingredients
Place the stew meat into the slow cooker. In a separate bowl, mix together the Lipton onion soup mix, brown gravy mix, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to combine. Pour this mixture over the beef in the slow cooker, ensuring all the meat is coated with the flavorful sauce.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 4–5 hours. The slow cooking process allows the beef to become incredibly tender and soak up all the rich flavors of the gravy.
Step 4: Thicken the Gravy (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker gravy, about 30 minutes before serving, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir it into the slow cooker and allow it to cook for an additional 20–30 minutes until the gravy thickens.
Step 5: Cook the Noodles
About 15 minutes before the beef is done, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and toss with a tablespoon of butter for extra richness.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Spoon the tender beef tips and gravy over the warm egg noodles. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables, a crisp green salad, or buttery garlic bread. For an extra touch of indulgence, sprinkle some shredded Parmesan cheese over the top before serving.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the beef and gravy (without noodles) in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to maintain moisture.
Tips for the Best Beef Tips and Noodles
- Choose the right cut of beef: Stew meat, chuck roast, or sirloin tips work best as they become melt-in-your-mouth tender after slow cooking.
- Low and slow is best: Cooking on low for 6–8 hours yields the most tender and flavorful results.
- Customize the gravy: If you prefer a deeper flavor, add a splash of red wine or a teaspoon of soy sauce to the mix.
- Vegetable additions: Try adding mushrooms, carrots, or peas in the last hour of cooking for a nutritious boost.
Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Noodles is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. With its rich, savory flavors and tender beef, it’s a meal that the whole family will love. The best part? It requires minimal effort but delivers maximum taste. Whether you’re making this for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. So grab your slow cooker and enjoy a delicious, hassle-free meal!