SLOW COOKER BEEF TIPS

Slow Cooker Beef Tips are a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. This recipe features tender sirloin steak strips slow-cooked with onions and mushrooms in a rich, savory sauce. The slow cooking process ensures that the beef is melt-in-your-mouth tender, while the blend of seasonings and ingredients creates a depth of flavor that is sure to satisfy. Serve these beef tips over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for a complete meal.

Ingredients

For the Beef Tips:

• 1 small onion, sliced
• 8 oz baby Bella mushrooms, sliced
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into strips, excess fat trimmed
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• ¼ cup dry red wine, plus a splash for deglazing
• 2½ cups fat-free beef broth
• 2 tbsp corn starch
• ¼ cup cold water, whisked together

Instructions

Preparing the Beef Tips:

1. Prepare Ingredients: Begin by slicing the onion and mushrooms. Cut the sirloin steak into strips, trimming any excess fat.
2. Sauté Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and mushrooms. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the mushrooms are tender, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the vegetables to the slow cooker.
3. Brown the Beef: In the same skillet, add the sirloin steak strips. Season with salt and pepper. Cook the beef until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
4. Deglaze the Pan: Add a splash of red wine to the skillet to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Pour this mixture into the slow cooker.
5. Add Liquid and Seasonings: Pour the remaining red wine, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth into the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
6. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender.

Thickening the Sauce:

1. Prepare Cornstarch Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth.
2. Add to Slow Cooker: About 30 minutes before serving, stir the cornstarch mixture into the slow cooker. This will help thicken the sauce.
3. Continue Cooking: Cover and continue to cook on high until the sauce has thickened.

Serving:

1. Serve: Once the sauce has thickened and the beef is tender, taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve the beef tips over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
2. Garnish: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley, if desired.

Cook’s Notes

• Beef: For the best results, use a high-quality sirloin steak. You can also substitute with other cuts like chuck or stew meat.
• Wine: If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute with additional beef broth.
• Mushrooms: Baby Bella mushrooms add a rich flavor, but you can use other types like white button or cremini mushrooms.
• Thickening: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add more cornstarch and water mixture until the desired consistency is reached.

Variations

• Garlic: Add 2-3 cloves of minced garlic to the sautéed vegetables for additional flavor.
• Herbs: Incorporate fresh or dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves to enhance the flavor profile.
• Vegetables: Add other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or peas for a heartier dish.
• Spicy: For a kick of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.

Keto and Low-Carb Version

Ingredients:

• Onion and Mushrooms: Use the same amount as the original recipe.
• Beef: Choose a high-fat cut like ribeye or chuck roast.
• Broth: Use bone broth instead of beef broth for added nutrients.
• Thickener: Replace the cornstarch with xanthan gum or glucomannan powder to thicken the sauce without adding carbs.
• Wine: Use a dry, low-carb red wine or substitute with additional bone broth.

Instructions:

Follow the same steps as the original recipe, but make the following adjustments:

1. Thicken Sauce: About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle a small amount of xanthan gum or glucomannan powder into the slow cooker, stirring well to avoid clumping. Continue to cook until the sauce has thickened.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use other cuts of beef?
   • Yes, you can use chuck roast, stew meat, or even ribeye for a richer flavor.
2. Can I cook this on the stovetop?
   • Yes, you can cook this recipe on the stovetop. Sauté the onions, mushrooms, and beef in a large pot, then add the remaining ingredients and simmer on low heat for 1-2 hours, until the beef is tender.
3. Can I freeze the leftovers?
   • Yes, you can freeze the cooked beef tips. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
4. What can I use instead of red wine?
   • You can substitute the red wine with additional beef broth, chicken broth, or a splash of balsamic vinegar.
5. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
   • Ensure all ingredients are gluten-free, including the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Use a gluten-free thickener like arrowroot powder or cornstarch.

Slow Cooker Beef Tips are a delicious and easy-to-make meal that will quickly become a favorite in your household. The tender beef and rich, savory sauce make this dish a perfect comfort food for any occasion. With its versatile variations and keto-friendly options, there’s a version of this recipe for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special gathering, these beef tips are sure to impress. Happy cooking