Crockpot Brown Butter Mushroom Beef Tips Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

To achieve the best results, resist the urge to add extra liquid. The beef and mushrooms will release a significant amount of their own moisture during the slow cooking process. Adding too much broth will result in a watery sauce that lacks the concentrated flavor desired for this dish.

If you find the gravy needs more body, you can whisk in a small amount of cornstarch slurry, but this is rarely necessary if the cooking temperature and time are managed correctly.

The quality of the beef broth used will impact the final flavor profile. Using a high-quality, low-sodium beef stock allows you to control the saltiness of the dish more effectively.

If you are using a concentrated beef base or bouillon, start with a smaller amount and adjust to your preference. Remember that the flavors will concentrate during the long cooking time, so it is always easier to add seasoning at the end rather than trying to correct an overly salty dish.

Variations

• Red Wine Infusion: Replace half of the beef broth with a dry red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon. The acidity of the wine cuts through the richness of the brown butter and adds a complex, fruity depth to the gravy.
• Herb-Forward: Add a sprig of fresh rosemary and a few extra sprigs of fresh thyme to the slow cooker at the start. Remove the woody stems before serving to infuse the dish with a brighter, more aromatic herbal profile.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezer

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

Reheat

Reheat gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth if the gravy is too thick.

Store any leftover beef tips and gravy in an airtight container. Allow the leftovers to cool at room temperature for no more than 2 hours before placing them in the refrigerator. This ensures food safety and maintains the quality of the dish.

The flavors often develop further overnight, making this an excellent option for meal prep. Keep the container sealed tightly to prevent the beef from drying out or absorbing other odors from the refrigerator. Properly stored, it will maintain its quality for several days.

This dish is perfect for making ahead of time as the flavors continue to meld and deepen in the refrigerator. Simply prepare the recipe as directed, allow it to cool completely, and store it in the refrigerator. When you are ready to serve, reheat the beef tips gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. This makes it an ideal choice for busy households or for entertaining, as the active work is completed well before guests arrive.

Serving ideas

Serve these beef tips over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes or creamy polenta to soak up the rich brown butter gravy. The contrast between the tender meat and the smooth, starchy base creates a satisfying and classic meal. Steamed green beans or roasted carrots make excellent vegetable sides, adding color and a slight crunch that balances the richness of the beef. Fresh herbs like chopped parsley can be sprinkled on top just before serving for a pop of brightness.

For a lighter alternative, consider serving the beef tips alongside a crisp side salad with a sharp vinaigrette. The acidity of the salad dressing cuts through the savory, buttery notes of the gravy, providing a balanced dining experience.

Crusty bread is also a wonderful addition for mopping up any remaining sauce on the plate. No matter the side dish, ensure the beef is served hot, and consider warming your plates beforehand to keep the gravy at the perfect consistency.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Crockpot Brown Butter Mushroom Beef Tips

Prep 10 minCook 8 hRest 5 minTotal 8 h 15 minServes 6

Ingredients

• 2 lb beef chuck, cut into bite-size cubes
• 1 lb white button mushrooms, whole
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, browned
• 1 cup beef broth

Instructions

1. Place the cubed beef chuck into the base of the slow cooker. Distribute the whole white button mushrooms evenly over the beef. Sprinkle the minced garlic and dried thyme over the top of the beef and mushrooms to season everything thoroughly.
2. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it turns golden brown and smells nutty. Remove from heat and stir in the beef broth. Carefully pour this mixture over the beef and mushroom combination in the slow cooker.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours. Before serving, verify that the beef has reached an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C). Allow the meat to rest for 5 minutes before serving to ensure tenderness.

Contains: milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

450

Protein

35 g

Carbohydrates

8 g

Fat

32 g

Fiber

1.5 g

Sugar

2 g

Sodium

450 mg

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