What cut of beef is best for slow cooker beef tips?

The best cuts for slow cooker beef tips are typically tougher, more affordable cuts like chuck roast, sirloin tip, or round steak. These cuts have enough marbling and connective tissue that break down during slow cooking, resulting in tender, flavorful meat. Avoid lean cuts such as tenderloin, as they can become dry and tough when cooked for long periods. Cubing the meat into uniform pieces also helps it cook evenly and absorb flavors better.

How long should I cook beef tips in a slow cooker?

For tender and juicy beef tips, cook them on low heat for 6 to 8 hours. This range allows the collagen in the meat to break down properly, making the beef soft and flavorful. If using the high setting, reduce the cooking time to about 3 to 4 hours, but low and slow is preferred for optimal texture. Always check for tenderness before serving; the meat should easily pull apart with a fork.

Can I add vegetables to my slow cooker beef tips recipe?

Yes, adding vegetables like onions, carrots, and mushrooms can enhance the flavor and nutritional value of your dish. Add root vegetables and tougher veggies at the start so they have time to cook fully, while delicate vegetables like peas or green beans should be added in the last 30 minutes to avoid overcooking. This layering method ensures the vegetables retain texture and complement the beef tips well.

Do I need to brown beef tips before slow cooking?

Browning beef tips before adding them to the slow cooker is recommended but not mandatory. Searing the meat in a hot pan develops a richer flavor through the Maillard reaction and helps lock in juices. It also adds appetizing color to the final dish. If short on time, you can skip this step, but expect a slightly less complex flavor profile.

How can I thicken the sauce for slow cooker beef tips?

To thicken the sauce, stir in a slurry made from cornstarch or flour and a small amount of cold water about 30 minutes before the cooking time ends. This allows the sauce to thicken without overcooking the beef. Alternatively, you can remove the beef tips and simmer the sauce uncovered on the stove for a few minutes to reduce and concentrate the flavors. Avoid adding thickeners too early to prevent a gummy texture.

Slow Cooker Beef Tips Recipe With Rich Homemade Gravy

Name: Slow Cooker Beef Tips
Prep time: PT-495220H46M16S
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 7 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 pounds cubed top sirloin steak; 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided; 1 teaspoon seasoned salt, divided; Freshly ground black pepper to taste; 2 cups low-sodium beef broth; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 cup diced onion; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 1 bay leaf; 3 tablespoons water; 2 tablespoons cornstarch

Ingredients

Scale

3 pounds cubed top sirloin steak

3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided

1 teaspoon seasoned salt, divided

Freshly ground black pepper to taste

2 cups low-sodium beef broth

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 cup diced onion

1 tablespoon minced garlic

1 bay leaf

3 tablespoons water

2 tablespoons cornstarch

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Instructions

1-First: heat 2 tablespoons of the vegetable oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Season half the cubed top sirloin steak with half the seasoned salt and freshly ground black pepper. Sear the beef cubes until they’re nicely browned, then transfer them to the slow cooker. Repeat the process with the remaining oil, beef, seasoned salt, and pepper to ensure even cooking and flavor development. For an extra twist on beef dishes, check out our beef bourguignon recipe for similar techniques that enhance slow-cooked meals.

2-Once the beef is in the slow cooker, add the 2 cups of low-sodium beef broth, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 cup diced onion, 1 tablespoon minced garlic, and 1 bay leaf. Stir everything together to combine the flavors. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the beef is fork-tender and absorbs all those savory notes.

3-In a small bowl, whisk together the 3 tablespoons water and 2 tablespoons cornstarch to make a slurry, then stir it into the slow cooker mixture. Cover again and cook on low for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the gravy thickens to perfection. Finally, remove the bay leaf before serving to avoid any bitter tastes, and enjoy your meal over your favorite sides.

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Notes

🔥 Sear beef in a cast iron or heavy skillet for the best flavor development.
🌿 Use dried herbs to keep the flavor strong throughout the long slow cooking.
🍄 Add sliced mushrooms during the last hour of cooking to avoid mushy texture and enhance flavor.

Author: Brandi Oshea
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Slow Cooking Time: 6-7 hours
Cook Time: 10 minutes (gravy thickening)
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooking, Searing
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten-Free

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1 cup beef tips with gravy)
Calories: 379
Sugar: 1 g
Sodium: 691 mg
Fat: 15 g
Saturated Fat: 8 g
Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 6 g
Fiber: 0 g
Protein: 52 g
Cholesterol: 133 mg