This tasty dish brings together tender beef tips and mushrooms, all cooked slowly in a creamy sauce. It’s perfect for chilly days when you want something warm and filling!
When I make this, the smell alone makes my family gather in the kitchen! Serve it over rice or noodles for a cozy meal that everyone will love. Trust me, you’ll be going for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Sirloin Tips: This cut is great for tender beef tips. You could use chuck roast for a more budget-friendly option. Just remember to cut it into smaller pieces for even cooking.
Mushrooms: I love using cremini mushrooms for their deeper flavor, but white button mushrooms work too. If mushrooms aren’t your thing, you could skip them entirely or add some chopped bell peppers instead.
Beef Broth: Homemade is best, but store-bought works well too. For a lighter version, use chicken broth, or if you’re vegan, vegetable broth is a great substitute.
Sour Cream: Sour cream adds richness; however, if you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt can be a great alternative. Heavy cream will give a slightly richer texture if needed!
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Texture for Beef Tips?
The secret to tender beef tips lies in slow cooking. Browning the meat first adds flavor, but don’t rush it. This initial stage helps seal in juices.
- Make sure your skillet is hot when browning to form a nice crust.
- Cook on LOW for a longer period; this ensures the beef gets super tender.
- Adding cream or sour cream toward the end keeps it smooth, preventing curdling.
Don’t be afraid to adjust the cooking time based on the size of your beef pieces. Smaller chunks may cook faster, so check for doneness if you cut them smaller!
How to Make Creamy Crockpot Beef Tips with Mushrooms
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Tips:
- 2 pounds beef sirloin tips or stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 12 ounces mushrooms, sliced (such as cremini or white button)
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup sour cream or ½ cup heavy cream (for extra creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour or cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep time and will cook in the crockpot for 6-8 hours on LOW or 3-4 hours on HIGH. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it kind of meal, perfect for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef tips in batches, allowing them to brown on all sides for about 2-3 minutes. Once browned, transfer the beef to the crockpot. Browning enhances the flavor, so don’t skip this step!
2. Sauté the Veggies:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, throw in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Cook for another 4-5 minutes until the mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown nicely. This adds great flavor!
3. Combine in the Crockpot:
Transfer the cooked onion, garlic, and mushrooms into the crockpot with the browned beef. This will give your dish an amazing aromatic base.
4. Add the Liquid Ingredients:
Pour the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce over the beef and veggies. Then, sprinkle in the dried thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything gently to combine all the flavors
5. Let It Cook:
Cover the crockpot and let it cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. You want the beef to be tender and infused with all those yummy flavors!
6. Stir in the Cream:
About 30 minutes before it’s time to eat, mix in the sour cream or heavy cream. For a thicker sauce, you can also make a slurry by mixing the flour or cornstarch with a few tablespoons of cold water before adding it in. Let it cook uncovered for the last half-hour.
7. Final Touches:
Once done, taste your beef tips and adjust the seasoning if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
8. Serve & Enjoy:
Enjoy this creamy crockpot beef tips served hot over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice. It’s the perfect comfort dish for any occasion!
Bon appétit!
FAQ for Creamy Crockpot Beef Tips with Mushrooms
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen beef tips, but it’s best to thaw them first for even cooking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or use the quick method by placing the sealed package in cold water for about an hour before cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Sour Cream?
If you don’t have sour cream on hand, Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute! It offers a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture. Heavy cream can also work if you’re looking for something richer.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other veggies like carrots, peas, or bell peppers. Just keep in mind that different vegetables may require slight adjustments to cooking time, so add heartier veggies a bit earlier on.
