There’s nothing quite as comforting as coming home to a savory, slow-cooked meal after a busy day, and these Crock Pot Beef Tips are hands-down one of my favorite cozy dinners. Tender chunks of beef practically melt in your mouth, all wrapped up in a rich, peppery gravy that begs to be spooned over a big pile of mashed potatoes or buttered noodles. This recipe takes humble ingredients and transforms them—with minimal effort—into a dish bursting with flavor and nostalgia. If you’re searching for a set-it-and-forget-it dinner that always impresses (and leaves enough for leftovers), look no further: Crock Pot Beef Tips deliver every single time.

Crock Pot Beef Tips Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about this Crock Pot Beef Tips recipe is how it uses simple, no-fuss ingredients that each play a crucial role. Each one adds something special, from the deep flavor of beef to the layers of seasoning in the gravy. Here’s the lineup:

Beef chuck roast or sirloin: Choose marbled cuts, trimmed and cut into hearty bites for extra tenderness after slow cooking.
Vegetable oil: A splash helps achieve that irresistible caramelized sear on the beef’s surface.
Salt and pepper: The absolute foundation of flavor, enhancing every bite of savory goodness.
Onion (or onion powder): Offers depth and aromatic sweetness; powder works in a pinch, but fresh onion brings extra flavor.
Garlic cloves (or garlic powder): Lends a subtle heat and richness—I always say, don’t skimp on the garlic!
Unsalted butter: Used in the gravy base, butter adds silkiness and rounds out the sauce.
All-purpose flour: Key for that thick, luscious gravy we all want soaking into our sides.
Low sodium beef broth: Forms the backbone of the gravy; low sodium is best so you can control the salt.
Low sodium soy sauce: It may sound unconventional, but it deepens the umami notes and makes the gravy unforgettable.
Dijon mustard: Brings a mild tang and complexity to balance the savory richness.
Beef bouillon: Intensifies the meaty flavor for a truly crave-worthy gravy.
Dried parsley and paprika: These add color and a subtle earthiness.
Dried oregano and thyme: Just a pinch of each for herby flair—don’t underestimate their power.

How to Make Crock Pot Beef Tips

Step 1: Season and Sear the Beef

Start by tossing the beef pieces with salt and pepper right on your cutting board—this simple step builds the dish’s foundation. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet until it’s shimmering, then sear the beef in batches. Each piece should get a nice, brown crust (about two minutes per side). Don’t rush: this creates incredible flavor that carries through the entire dish. Transfer all the seared beef into your greased slow cooker, then top with chopped onions and minced garlic for layers of aromatic goodness.

Step 2: Make the Gravy Base

With the beef done, don’t wash that skillet! Instead, melt butter in the leftover beef juices, adjusting the amount so you have about half a cup of fat and liquid in total. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk for about two minutes—this forms a rich roux that will thicken your sauce. The nutty aroma at this stage is a sign you’re on the right track.

Step 3: Whisk in the Gravy Ingredients

Next, whisk together the beef broth, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, beef bouillon, dried parsley, paprika, oregano, and thyme right into your roux. Bring it all to a boil, then reduce the heat so it simmers, thickening to a smooth gravy. This sauce will loosen a bit in the slow cooker, but that’s what soaks so beautifully into the beef later.

Step 4: Combine and Cook

Pour the finished gravy over the seared beef, onions, and garlic in the slow cooker. Give everything a good stir so those flavors mingle. Cover and cook on HIGH for three to four hours, or LOW for five to seven. When you check back, the Crock Pot Beef Tips will be spoon-tender and the gravy bubbling with rich, beefy goodness. Season one last time with salt and pepper, then get ready for magic.

How to Serve Crock Pot Beef Tips

Garnishes

Top your Crock Pot Beef Tips with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, a dash of cracked black pepper, or even a few sliced green onions. These little pops of color and freshness give a vibrant finish and invite everyone to dig in.

Side Dishes

For the ultimate comfort meal, serve these beef tips over creamy mashed potatoes, buttery egg noodles, or fluffy white rice—anything that will soak up plenty of that glorious gravy. Simple roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or a crisp green salad round out the meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Amp up presentation by serving Crock Pot Beef Tips in mini bread bowls, or ladle the beef and gravy over a pile of cheesy polenta for a rustic twist. For parties, try serving them in individual ramekins or over crostini for an unexpected appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), let the beef tips cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to four days—flavors actually deepen and improve after an overnight rest.

Freezing

Crock Pot Beef Tips freeze wonderfully! Spoon cooled beef and gravy into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving a little headspace. Label and date, then freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to loosen the gravy. Stir occasionally to heat evenly and keep the beef ultra-tender.

FAQs

Can I use stew meat instead of chuck or sirloin?

Absolutely! Stew meat is a great substitute for Crock Pot Beef Tips, though it may require a bit of extra cook time to reach the same buttery tenderness. Just keep cooking until the beef is fork-tender.

Do I need to sear the beef first?

While technically you can skip searing, it makes a noticeable difference by adding rich flavor and color to the dish. If you’re pressed for time, you could skip it—but once you taste the caramelized results, you’ll find it’s worth the extra few minutes!

Can I make Crock Pot Beef Tips ahead of time?

Yes, in fact, they taste even better the next day! Prepare the recipe as directed, cool, then refrigerate. The flavors meld overnight and reheating is a breeze for quick meals.

What’s the best way to thicken the gravy?

If you prefer an even thicker gravy after slow cooking, just mix a slurry of cornstarch and cold water, then stir it into the hot gravy and let it simmer until thickened to your liking.

Any gluten-free ways to make this recipe?

Certainly! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend, or use cornstarch to thicken the gravy. Also, ensure your broth and soy sauce are labeled gluten-free for a completely safe, delicious dinner.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a comforting meal that’s packed with flavor but easy to pull off, you can’t go wrong with Crock Pot Beef Tips. They’re a family favorite for a reason—tender beef, rich gravy, and pure nostalgic joy in every forkful. Give this recipe a try and let it bring a little extra warmth to your table this week!