Crockpot Smothered Mushroom Beef Tips for an Easy Dinner Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a more intense flavor, brown the beef tips in a skillet over high heat for a few minutes before adding them to the slow cooker. This step, while optional, creates a Maillard reaction on the surface of the meat, adding a deeper, more complex layer of flavor to the final gravy. Ensure the skillet is hot and the beef is dry to achieve the best sear before transferring everything to the slow cooker.

If the gravy appears too thin after the cooking time is complete, remove the lid and switch the slow cooker to high for 15 to 20 minutes to allow some liquid to evaporate.

Alternatively, whisk a small amount of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the hot liquid, letting it cook for a few minutes until it thickens to the desired consistency. Always taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning with salt or pepper if needed.

Variations

• Red Wine Beef Tips: Replace half of the beef broth with a dry red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon. This adds a sophisticated depth of flavor and a slightly acidic brightness that cuts through the richness of the beef.
• Herbed Mushroom Beef: Add a teaspoon of dried thyme and a tablespoon of fresh parsley during the last 30 minutes of cooking. These herbs brighten the dish and complement the earthy flavor of the mushrooms.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheat

Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove over low heat until steaming hot.

Allow any leftovers to cool to room temperature for no more than two hours before transferring them to an airtight container. Properly stored, the beef tips will remain fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days.

When reheating, use a saucepan over medium-low heat or a microwave-safe dish, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the gravy if it has thickened significantly during refrigeration, ensuring it is heated through thoroughly before serving.

This dish is an excellent candidate for making ahead, as the flavors often improve after sitting in the refrigerator overnight. Prepare the dish as directed, allow it to cool completely, and store it in the refrigerator.

Reheat gently on the stove when ready to eat. This approach saves time on busy days and provides a convenient, ready-to-serve meal that retains its quality and texture, making it perfect for meal planning and busy schedules.

Serving ideas

Serve the beef tips hot, ladled generously over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes to soak up the rich mushroom gravy. The creamy texture of the potatoes provides a perfect contrast to the savory, tender beef. Consider adding a side of steamed green beans or roasted carrots to complete the meal, offering a fresh, crisp element that balances the heartiness of the main dish and provides a well-rounded dining experience.

For an alternative serving suggestion, pour the smothered beef tips over wide egg noodles or a serving of steamed white rice. The gravy clings perfectly to the noodles, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

A crusty piece of sourdough bread is also a fantastic addition, ideal for mopping up any remaining gravy left on the plate. These simple pairings highlight the comfort food qualities of the dish and make it a satisfying centerpiece for any dinner.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Crockpot Smothered Mushroom Beef Tips for an Easy Dinner

Prep 10 minCook 8 hRest 5 minTotal 8 h 15 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lb beef tips, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 1 packet brown gravy mix
• 1 cup beef broth

Instructions

1. Place the raw beef tips into the bottom of the slow cooker insert. Ensure the meat is arranged in an even layer to promote consistent cooking throughout the process.
2. Scatter the sliced mushrooms over the beef tips. Sprinkle the contents of the gravy mix packet evenly over the mushrooms and meat to ensure the seasoning covers everything.
3. Pour the beef broth over the ingredients. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours. Before serving, verify the internal temperature of the beef reaches 145°F (63°C). Let the beef rest for at least 5 minutes before serving.

Contains: gluten, milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

380

Protein

32 g

Carbohydrates

12 g

Fat

22 g

Fiber

1.5 g

Sugar

2 g

Sodium

850 mg

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