Creamy Slow Cooker Beef Tips Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a deeper flavor, consider sautéing the beef cubes in a separate pan before adding them to the slow cooker, although this is optional. This step creates a browned crust that adds another layer of complexity to the final sauce. If choosing to do this, ensure the beef is patted very dry with paper towels to get the best sear. The rendered fat from the browning process can also be added to the slow cooker for extra richness, provided it is not excessive.

To brighten the final dish, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a handful of fresh chopped parsley just before serving. The acidity of the lemon helps cut through the richness of the cream cheese, while the fresh herbs add a pop of color and a light, peppery note that balances the savory, umami-packed sauce.

These simple additions can elevate the presentation and flavor of the dish significantly, making it feel even more like a restaurant-quality meal prepared at home.

Variations

• Spicy Beef Tips: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes during the assembly phase to introduce a gentle heat that complements the sweetness of the sun-dried tomatoes.
• Mushroom Beef Tips: Include a cup of sliced cremini mushrooms in the slow cooker to add an earthy, savory depth that pairs perfectly with the creamy tomato sauce.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Cool to room temperature within 2 hours before refrigerating.

Freezer

Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheat

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave until heated through, adding liquid if needed to loosen the sauce.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the best quality, try to store the beef and the sauce together, which helps keep the meat moist.

When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the sauce has become too thick during refrigeration. Ensure the leftovers are cooled properly at room temperature for no more than 2 hours before moving them into the refrigerator.

This dish is an excellent candidate for making ahead, as the flavors often improve after sitting for a day. Prepare the entire dish, let it cool completely, and then store it in the refrigerator. When ready to eat, simply reheat it slowly. This make-ahead approach is perfect for busy weeknights or when hosting, as it reduces time in the kitchen during the actual meal service while still delivering a high-quality, delicious result for guests.

Serving ideas

Serve these creamy beef tips over a bed of mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or steamed rice to soak up the rich, flavorful sauce. The creamy nature of the dish makes it a natural partner for simple, starchy sides that provide a neutral canvas for the bold flavors of the sun-dried tomatoes and the tender beef.

A side of roasted asparagus or steamed green beans adds a fresh, crisp contrast to the meal, rounding out the dining experience and providing a balanced plate.

For a more rustic presentation, serve the beef tips in shallow bowls with a side of crusty bread to mop up any remaining sauce. The bread is perfect for ensuring that not a single drop of the creamy, tomato-infused sauce goes to waste.

Whether serving for a casual family dinner or a more formal gathering, this dish is versatile enough to be plated elegantly or served family-style directly from the slow cooker, depending on the occasion and the number of guests being hosted.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Creamy Slow Cooker Beef Tips

Prep 10 minCook 4 hRest 5 minTotal 4 h 15 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lb beef chuck cubes, cut into bite-size pieces
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

Instructions

1. Place the beef chuck cubes into the slow cooker. Scatter the chopped sun-dried tomatoes over the meat. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning evenly over the mixture to ensure every piece of beef is well-coated with the dry herbs.
2. Place the block of cream cheese directly into the center of the slow cooker on top of the seasoned beef. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set to cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or high for 2 to 3 hours.
3. Once the cooking time ends, stir the melted cream cheese into the beef juices to create a smooth, creamy sauce. Ensure the beef has reached an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Contains: milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

520

Protein

35 g

Carbohydrates

8 g

Fat

38 g

Fiber

1 g

Sugar

4 g

Sodium

450 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.