These Easy Crockpot Beef Tips with Tender Noodles are a comforting dish perfect for busy days! Juicy beef is slow-cooked until it’s super tender, served with soft noodles soaking up all the flavors.
I love how this meal practically cooks itself! Just toss everything in the crockpot and relax, knowing a delicious dinner is on the way. Enjoy it with some crusty bread for a cozy night in!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: This is important for flavor and tenderness. I recommend using chuck roast for its marbling. If you’re looking for a leaner option, sirloin can also work well.
Red Wine: It adds depth to the dish. If you prefer to skip it, use more beef broth or even a splash of balsamic vinegar, which gives a similar acidity.
Egg Noodles: These are traditional and cook quickly. If gluten is a concern, you can substitute with gluten-free pasta or even some zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a lighter option!
Worcestershire Sauce: This brings umami to the dish. You could use soy sauce if you’ve run out, but adjust the salt in the recipe since soy sauce is saltier.
How Do I Ensure the Beef is Tender and Flavorful?
Getting tender beef tips is all about the cooking time and browning the meat. Take the time to brown each cube of beef; this builds flavor through the Maillard reaction. Here’s how you can do it right:
- Heat the skillet well before adding oil to avoid steaming the meat.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—brown in batches if necessary.
- Cook low and slow in the crockpot; the longer cooking time helps the connective tissues break down for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
By following these steps, you’ll end up with deliciously tender beef that’s bursting with flavor!
Easy Crockpot Beef Tips with Tender Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional; can substitute with more beef broth)
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 12 ounces egg noodles or wide pasta noodles
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes of hands-on prep time, plus 6 to 8 hours of cooking time in the crockpot. Just set it and forget it for the day, and you’ll have a hearty dinner ready to go!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While that’s warming up, season the cubed beef with some salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the beef to the skillet in batches, browning the cubes on all sides. Once they’re nicely seared, transfer the beef to your crockpot. This step really boosts the flavor!
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3 to 4 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. This will add even more flavor to the dish! After that, pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using), scraping up any tasty browned bits stuck to the pan.
3. Mix in Seasonings:
Add the Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, dried thyme, and rosemary to the liquid mixture in the skillet. Stir everything together well as this mixture will infuse the beef with rich flavors.
4. Combine in the Crockpot:
Slowly pour this liquid mixture over the browned beef in the crockpot. Give it a gentle stir to make sure the beef is covered. Cover the crockpot and let it cook on low for about 6 to 8 hours, or until the beef is tender and can be easily shredded with a fork.
5. Cook the Noodles:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. Drain them and set aside. These noodles will soak up all the delicious sauce!
6. Thicken the Sauce:
To thicken your sauce, take a small bowl and whisk together the flour with a few tablespoons of the cooking liquid from the crockpot to create a slurry. Stir this slurry back into the crockpot and mix gently to combine it with the sauce. This step will make it rich and creamy!
7. Combine Everything:
Add the cooked noodles to the crockpot and stir gently until everything is well mixed and heated through. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is ready, serve the beef tips over the tender noodles and garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy your comforting meal!
These Easy Crockpot Beef Tips with Tender Noodles are sure to become a favorite at your dinner table!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Beef Tips with Tender Noodles
Can I Use Frozen Beef Stew Meat?
Yes, you can use frozen beef stew meat! Just make sure to thaw the meat in the refrigerator overnight for even cooking. If you’re in a rush, you can also use the microwave defrost setting. However, avoid adding frozen meat directly to the crockpot, as it can lead to uneven cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Red Wine?
If you prefer not to use red wine, you can substitute it with an extra cup of beef broth or grape juice for a similar flavor profile. If you have it on hand, a splash of balsamic vinegar can also work wonderfully!
How Do I Store Leftover Beef and Noodles?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the beef and noodles on the stove over low heat, or use the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Noodles?
Absolutely! You can serve the beef tips over rice, mashed potatoes, or even sautéed vegetables for a low-carb option. The flavorful sauce will elevate whatever base you choose!
