SLOW COOKER BEEF TIPS AND MUSHROOMS
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef stew meat or beef tips, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 packet onion soup mix
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons cold water
- Salt, to taste
- Cooked mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for serving
1. Prepare the Beef
Pat the beef pieces dry and season lightly with salt, pepper, and thyme. For extra flavor, you can quickly brown the beef in a skillet with the butter before adding it to the slow cooker. This step is optional but gives the finished dish a richer taste.
2. Add Everything to the Slow Cooker
Place the beef, sliced mushrooms, onion, and garlic into the slow cooker. Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, then sprinkle the onion soup mix over everything. Stir gently so the ingredients are distributed evenly.
3. Slow Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or until the beef is tender. You can also cook it on HIGH for about 3–4 hours, although the low setting generally produces more tender beef.
4. Thicken the Gravy
About 20–30 minutes before serving, mix the cornstarch with cold water until completely smooth. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker. Cover again and allow the sauce to cook until the gravy thickens.
5. Serve
Taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the tender beef tips and mushrooms over creamy mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles, spooning plenty of the rich mushroom gravy over the top.
Helpful Tip
Avoid lifting the slow-cooker lid repeatedly while the beef is cooking because heat escapes and cooking time can increase. If the gravy becomes thicker than you prefer, stir in a small amount of warm beef broth before serving.
Final Result
The beef becomes tender and flavorful while the mushrooms, onions, and savory gravy create a comforting meal that is especially good served over mashed potatoes or noodles.
