Slow Cooker Pepper and Onion Beef Tips Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a deeper flavor, you can sear the beef cubes in a hot skillet with a small amount of oil before adding them to the slow cooker. This adds a layer of complexity through the Maillard reaction.

However, this is optional and the recipe will still be delicious without it. If you choose to sear, ensure you deglaze the pan with a little bit of the broth to capture all the flavorful browned bits.

Experiment with the type of peppers used. While bell peppers are the classic choice, adding a small amount of sliced poblano or anaheim peppers can provide a subtle, earthy heat that complements the beef.

Remember that the longer the peppers cook, the more they will blend into the sauce, so if you prefer them with a bit more bite, you can add them to the slow cooker during the last two hours of cooking.

Variations

• Mushroom Beef Tips: Add two cups of sliced cremini mushrooms to the slow cooker along with the peppers and onions. The mushrooms add an earthy depth and absorb the savory gravy perfectly during the long cooking time.
• Spicy Pepper Beef: Include one sliced jalapeño or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes when adding the vegetables. This adds a gentle, lingering heat that cuts through the richness of the beef and gravy.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Keep 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 stovetop over low heat until warmed through.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain moisture and prevent the beef from drying out. Ensure the food cools to room temperature for no more than two hours before placing it in the refrigerator. Properly stored, the beef tips will keep for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently to avoid overcooking the beef, which can make it become tough or stringy.

This dish is an excellent candidate for making ahead, as the flavors often improve after sitting in the refrigerator overnight. You can assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker insert the night before, cover it, and keep it in the refrigerator.

In the morning, simply place the insert into the base and start the cooking process. This ensures a hot, ready-to-eat dinner with zero prep time at the end of the day.

Serving ideas

Serve this dish over toasted Texas toast to soak up the rich, flavorful gravy. The crunch of the toast contrasts beautifully with the tender beef and soft vegetables.

You can also serve it over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or steamed white rice if you prefer a different base. A side of steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad makes for a balanced and complete meal that the whole family will enjoy.

When plating, make sure to include a generous amount of the gravy over both the beef and the base. You might want to garnish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and a touch of freshness. Ensure the Texas toast is toasted just before serving so it remains crisp and does not become soggy from the gravy before it reaches the table.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Pepper and Onion Beef Tips

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

Ingredients

• 2 lb beef sirloin tips, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups bell peppers, sliced into strips
• 1 cup yellow onion, sliced
• 1 packet brown gravy mix
• 1 cup beef broth

Instructions

1. Place the beef sirloin tips at the bottom of the slow cooker basin. Scatter the sliced bell peppers and yellow onions evenly over the beef. Sprinkle the brown gravy mix over the vegetables and meat. Pour the beef broth over the top of all ingredients to ensure everything is moistened.
2. Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook on the low setting for 8 hours. The slow, gentle heat will break down the connective tissue in the beef sirloin tips. Ensure the beef reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and let the meat rest at least 3 minutes before serving.
3. Once the beef reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), turn off the slow cooker. Allow the beef tips to rest for at least 5 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute through the meat, ensuring each bite remains succulent. Serve the beef tips and vegetables hot over toasted Texas toast.

Contains: gluten, milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

420

Protein

35 g

Carbohydrates

18 g

Fat

22 g

Fiber

2 g

Sugar

4 g

Sodium

850 mg

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