If you are looking for a hearty, soul-soothing meal that practically makes itself, then look no further than this Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Vegetables Recipe. Imagine tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef tips nestled among vibrant root vegetables, all simmered slowly in a rich, flavorful gravy. It’s comfort food at its finest, bringing warmth and satisfaction to your dinner table with minimal effort. This dish has been a favorite in my kitchen for years because it’s both easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious—a true one-pot wonder perfect for any day of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a few simple, wholesome ingredients is all it takes to create this classic dish. Each item plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and a beautiful array of colors that make this meal as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
- 2 pounds beef stew meat or beef tips: This cuts into tender chunks that soak up all the savory flavors during cooking.
- 2 carrots, sliced: Add sweetness and a lovely firmness that contrasts the beef.
- 2 potatoes, cubed: These absorb the gravy and add a hearty texture that fills you up.
- 1 onion, chopped: Brings a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 1 cup beef broth: The savory base for the rich gravy that ties everything together.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Elevates the umami notes with its tangy complexity.
- 1 teaspoon thyme: An aromatic herb that complements the beef and vegetables perfectly.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Vegetables Recipe
Step 1: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Simply place the beef tips, sliced carrots, cubed potatoes, and chopped onion into the slow cooker. Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, then sprinkle the thyme, salt, and pepper evenly over the top. This straightforward step sets the foundation for the delicious meal you’re about to create.
Step 2: Set and Forget
Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours, or on high for about 4 hours. This slow cooking process allows the beef to become incredibly tender, while the vegetables soak up all those wonderful flavors, resulting in a rich, hearty stew.
Step 3: Final Touches and Serving
Once the cooking time is up, give everything a gentle stir to mix the gravy and distribute the flavors evenly. If you prefer a thicker gravy, simply whisk a small amount of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the slow cooker, cooking for a few more minutes until it reaches your desired consistency. Your Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Vegetables Recipe is now ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Vegetables Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives over the top to add a fresh, bright contrast to the deep flavors. A dollop of sour cream or a few crispy fried onions can also add fun texture and richness that feels indulgent but comforting.
Side Dishes
This dish is a star on its own, but you can complement it with a side of warm crusty bread or buttered egg noodles that soak up every last drop of the luscious gravy. Alternatively, serve it alongside a fresh green salad to balance the hearty flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive twist, serve the beef tips and vegetables over creamy mashed potatoes, or pile the mixture on top of steamed rice for a filling meal. Using an attractive, rustic bowl brings out that cozy, home-cooked vibe that invites everyone to dive right in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Vegetables Recipe in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making your second helping just as delightful as the first.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers by transferring the beef tips and vegetables along with the gravy into a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. It will keep for up to 3 months. Be sure to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. Add a splash of beef broth or water if the gravy thickens too much during storage — this keeps the dish nice and saucy.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables in this Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Vegetables Recipe?
Absolutely! Mushrooms, celery, or parsnips make excellent additions and complement the beef beautifully. Just add them when you layer the ingredients in the slow cooker.
What cut of beef works best for beef tips?
Beef stew meat is typically cut from tougher sections that become tender with slow cooking. Chuck roast trimmed and cut into chunks also works wonderfully and stays juicy throughout the long cooking process.
How do I thicken the gravy if it’s too thin?
Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the slow cooker about 15 minutes before serving. Cook on high for that time until the gravy thickens.
Is this recipe gluten free?
Yes, this Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Vegetables Recipe is naturally gluten free as long as you use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and beef broth.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance and refrigerate before cooking?
You can assemble all the ingredients in the slow cooker insert, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. Just make sure to allow extra cooking time the next day since the ingredients will be cold going in.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Vegetables Recipe is one of those rare treasures that combines simplicity, comfort, and flavor with such ease. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week ahead, it offers satisfying, wholesome goodness that’s sure to become a household favorite. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do and share it with the special people in your life for countless cozy meals to come.
Print
Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Vegetables Recipe
- Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Tender beef tips slow-cooked with root vegetables, herbs, and rich gravy, creating a comforting and hearty one-pot meal perfect for any day.
Ingredients
Beef and Vegetables
- 2 pounds beef stew meat or beef tips
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 potatoes, cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
Liquids and Seasonings
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Chop the carrots, potatoes, and onion into bite-sized pieces and trim the beef stew meat or beef tips if necessary to ensure even cooking.
- Load Slow Cooker: Place the beef, carrots, potatoes, and onion into the slow cooker. Add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper directly on top.
- Cook: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 7–8 hours, or cook on high for 4 hours until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
- Finish and Serve: Before serving, stir the mixture gently to blend the flavors. If desired, thicken the gravy by mixing cornstarch with cold water and adding it to the slow cooker, cooking for an additional 15 minutes until thickened.
Notes
- Optional: Add mushrooms or celery for extra flavor and texture.
- To thicken the gravy, dissolve cornstarch in cold water and stir into the slow cooker, cooking on high for 15 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Category: Main Dish, Stew
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
