Description
Tender, fork-tender beef tips slowly braised in a rich, aromatic gravy infused with garlic, thyme, and savory onion soup mix. With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, this comforting dish is perfect for busy weeknights—just set it and forget it!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 2 lbs Stew meat (beef tips Hearty, becomes fork-tender)
- 1 tsp Salt (Enhances natural beef flavor)
- 1 tsp Black pepper (Adds gentle warmth)
- 1/2 tsp Dried thyme (Earthy aromatic undertone)
- 3 Tbsp Garlic minced (Pungent depth)
- 1 1 oz package Dry onion soup mix (Savory base with onion and herb seasoning)
- 2 cups Beef broth (Liquid base for gravy adds umami)
- 3 Tbsp Ketchup (Balances acidity and sweetness)
- 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce (Boosts savory complexity)
- 3 Tbsp Cornstarch (Thickens gravy to silky consistency)
Instructions
Season the Beef:
- In a mixing bowl, toss beef tips with salt, pepper, thyme, minced garlic, and dry onion soup mix until evenly coated.
- (Optional) Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear beef in batches, 1–2 minutes per side, until browned. Transfer to slow cooker.
Assemble in Slow Cooker:
- Add beef broth, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce to the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine with beef and aromatics.
Slow Cook:
- Cover and cook on Low for 8 hours (or on High for 4 hours), until the beef is fork-tender and the flavors have melded.
Thicken the Gravy:
- In the last 15 minutes of cooking, whisk cornstarch with 2 Tbsp cold water to form a slurry.
- Stir the slurry into the slow cooker, cover, and continue cooking until the gravy is thickened and glossy.
Serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
- Spoon beef tips and gravy over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice.
Notes
-
Browning the Meat: Though optional, searing beef before slow cooking deepens the flavor and adds color.
-
Make-Ahead: Assemble in the morning and let it cook all day; it’s perfect for busy schedules.
-
Storage: Leftovers keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed.
-
Freezing: Freeze cooled beef and gravy in portions for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Ask ChatGPT
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American, Comfort Food, Slow Cooker Recipes
Nutrition
- Calories: 450
