There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of beef tips simmered in a rich mushroom gravy. Grandmother’s Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy is a dish that not only warms the soul but also brings back memories of family gatherings and hearty dinners. This classic American recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, as it allows you to set it and forget it, letting the slow cooker do all the work. The combination of tender beef and a creamy mushroom sauce creates a savory delight that is sure to satisfy the whole family. The aroma that fills your kitchen as it cooks is irresistible, making it an excellent choice for cozy evenings at home. Whether you’re looking for an easy beef stew or an indulgent comfort food, this dish delivers on all fronts.

Ingredients

To create Grandma’s delicious beef tips with mushroom gravy, gather the following ingredients: You can learn more about this topic.

• Beef Tips: 2 pounds of beef sirloin or chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces. Choose a cut with good marbling to ensure tenderness and flavor.
• Vegetables:
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup baby carrots, sliced
  • 8 ounces button mushrooms, sliced. You can also opt for fresh, organic mushrooms for an enhanced flavor profile.
• Liquids:
  • 1 cup beef broth, preferably low sodium for better control over seasoning.
  • 1 cup heavy cream to create that luscious and creamy texture.
• Seasonings:
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, which adds depth and umami.
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme, or a few sprigs of fresh thyme if available.
  • Salt and pepper, to taste. Freshly cracked pepper can elevate the dish.
• Thickener:
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (optional, for a thicker gravy). This step is particularly useful if you prefer a heartier consistency.

For the best flavor, opt for high-quality beef and fresh vegetables. If you’re short on time, pre-sliced mushrooms and chopped onions can be found in most grocery stores. Choosing organic ingredients where possible can enhance the overall quality of your dish. Check out our related guide for more tips on ingredient selection.

Steps / Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients: Start by cutting the beef into 1-inch pieces, ensuring uniform sizes for even cooking. This helps to ensure that all pieces cook at the same rate.
2. Layer Ingredients: In your slow cooker, layer the beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and mushrooms. Try to distribute the ingredients evenly for balanced cooking.
3. Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine the beef broth, heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until well combined, ensuring there are no lumps.
4. Pour Sauce: Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and vegetables in the slow cooker, ensuring everything is well coated. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully during cooking.
5. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The beef should be tender and the flavors well melded. Stir occasionally if possible to ensure even cooking.
6. Thicken Gravy (optional): If you prefer a thicker gravy, stir in the cornstarch mixture during the last 30 minutes of cooking, allowing it to thicken and develop a silky texture.
7. Serve: Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for a complete meal. Don’t forget to spoon the mushroom gravy generously over the top!

Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best outcome, here are some helpful tips:

• Beef Selection: Choose marbled cuts of beef for more flavor and tenderness. Cuts like chuck roast or brisket work wonderfully in this recipe.
• Make Ahead: This dish can be made a day ahead. Just reheat gently on the stove before serving to enhance the flavors further.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it seems too thick.
• Avoiding Overcooking: Keep an eye on the cooking time, especially if using a high setting. Overcooked beef can become tough, so check for doneness occasionally.

Variations

If you’re looking to customize this dish, consider the following ideas:

• Different Mushrooms: Experiment with other mushroom varieties like shiitake or portobello for a richer flavor. These mushrooms can add a unique texture and taste.
• Herb Variations: Fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley can be added for a different aromatic experience, offering a fresh twist to the classic recipe.
• Low-Fat Option: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a low-fat cream alternative to reduce calories without sacrificing taste.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, serve Grandmother’s Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy alongside:

• Buttery mashed potatoes, which perfectly soak up the gravy.
• Steamed green beans or broccoli for a pop of color and nutrition.
• Crusty bread to soak up the gravy—perfect for those who love to savor every drop of flavor.

This dish is an excellent addition to any family dinner, perfect for those chilly evenings when comfort food is a must. It not only satisfies the palate but also brings everyone together around the dinner table.

FAQ

1. Can I use frozen beef?
No, it’s best to thaw the beef beforehand to ensure even cooking and to prevent unwanted texture changes.

2. What can I use instead of beef broth?
You can use vegetable broth for a lighter flavor or chicken broth if available, creating a unique twist on the traditional recipe.

3. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as the Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free. Always check labels to ensure all ingredients meet your dietary needs.

Try this delightful recipe for a taste of nostalgia. Grandmother’s Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy is sure to become a family favorite!

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Grandmother’s Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy

Recipe by Louna

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5 from 1 vote

Course: Dinner Cuisine: American Difficulty: Easy

🍽️

Servings

− 6-8 +

⏱️

Prep Time

30 min

🍳

Cook Time

8 hr

🔥

Calories

—

There's something incredibly comforting about a bowl of beef tips simmered in a rich mushroom gravy. Grandmother's Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy is a dish that not only warms the soul but also brings back memories of family gatherings and hearty dinners.

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Ingredients

US Metric

• 2 pounds beef sirloin or chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup baby carrots, sliced
• 8 ounces button mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup beef broth, preferably low sodium
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (optional)

Directions

1.

Start by cutting the beef into 1-inch pieces.

2.

In your slow cooker, layer the beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and mushrooms.

3.

In a bowl, combine the beef broth, heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until well combined.

4.

Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and vegetables in the slow cooker.

5.

Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

6.

If you prefer a thicker gravy, stir in the cornstarch mixture during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

7.

Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.