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Dinner · Part 2 of 3: Instructions

Easy Slow Cooker Swedish-Style Beef Tips Step-by-step instructions

A close-up of tender beef tips in a creamy mushroom gravy served on a white plate.
Prep
Cook
Total
Serves
4
Includes 5 min resting

Before you start

Before beginning, organize all ingredients and ensure your slow cooker insert is clean and dry. If using a large roast, trim any excess fat and cut the beef into uniform one-inch cubes. Peel and slice the onion into thin half-moons.

Ensure your measuring spoons are ready for the spices. There is no need to sear the beef beforehand, as the slow cooker will handle the process, but having everything prepped and ready makes the assembly phase quick and efficient.

Ingredients at a glance (5)
  • 1 lb beef tips, cut into bite-size cubes
  • 1 large onion, sliced into half-moons
  • 1/2 tsp ground allspice
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) creamy mushroom soup

Instructions

Assembling the ingredients

  1. Prepare the slow cooker
    Place the cubed beef tips into the bottom of the slow cooker insert, ensuring they are spread out in an even layer to promote consistent cooking throughout the process.
    Look for The beef should cover the bottom of the cooker.
    Tip Ensure the beef is cut into uniform sizes for even cooking.

The slow cooker should look organized with the beef cubes forming a base layer. The onions are distributed on top, and the spices are sprinkled evenly.

The creamy mushroom soup is poured over everything, ready to be covered. Everything is cold and raw, but the layers are set in the correct order to ensure proper flavor distribution during the long cooking process.

Slow cooking process

  1. Add aromatics and seasonings
    Layer the onion half-moons over the beef. Sprinkle the ground allspice and ground nutmeg evenly over the onions and beef to infuse the meat with warm, aromatic flavor.
    Look for The onions should be distributed evenly.
    Tip Distribute the spices well to ensure flavor in every bite.

During the long cooking phase, the kitchen will begin to smell savory and aromatic. Through the lid, you may see the condensation building. The beef is undergoing a slow braise, becoming tender, while the onions soften and melt into the mushroom soup. The sauce will transition from a thick soup consistency to a cohesive, rich gravy that coats the meat thoroughly.

Final resting and serving

  1. Add broth and cook
    Pour the creamy mushroom soup over the ingredients. Cover and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours. Before serving, verify the beef has reached an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C). Let the beef rest for at least 3 minutes before serving to ensure the juices redistribute properly.
    Look for The beef is tender and the sauce is thickened.
    Safe temperature 145°F (63°C) internal temperature (steaks, chops and roasts)
    Tip Do not stir until the cooking time is complete.

At the end of the cooking time, the beef should be very tender and easily pierced with a fork. The gravy should be thick, glossy, and beige. The temperature check confirms the meat is safe. After the required resting period, the dish is ready to be plated, with the sauce clinging to the meat and onions, appearing soft, braised, and steaming.

Common mistakes

A common mistake is overcrowding the slow cooker or using pieces of beef that are too large, which can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure the beef is in a single layer or at least not packed too tightly.

Another error is opening the lid too frequently, which releases heat and moisture and extends the cooking time. Finally, do not add extra liquid; the beef and onions will release enough moisture to create the perfect gravy consistency during the long cooking time.

How to tell it’s done

The beef is done when it is fork-tender and pulls apart easily with minimal resistance. Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest piece of beef; it should register at least 145°F (63°C).

The sauce should be smooth, thick, and beige in color, clinging to the beef and onions. Allow the meat to rest for at least 3 minutes after checking the temperature to ensure the juices are fully reabsorbed, resulting in the best possible texture for the final dish.

  • Steaks, chops and roasts: 145°F (63°C) in the thickest part, then a 3-minute rest

Coming up in Part 3: common questions

  • Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
  • What is the best cut of beef to use?
  • How can the gravy be thickened if it is too thin?

Also in Part 3: variations (Herb-Infused Beef Tips, Garlic and Onion Beef), storage and make-ahead, and the printable recipe card.

Up next · Part 3 of 3

2 variations · storage & make-ahead · 3 answers · printable card

Tips, FAQ & printable recipe (Part 3)← Back to the ingredients (Part 1)