If you're looking for a comforting and easy-to-make dinner, this Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles recipe is just what you need. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, you can enjoy a hearty meal that's perfect for any night of the week. Let's dive into the ingredients you'll need to create this delicious dish.
INGREDIENTS
- 1 lb stew meat: Tender beef pieces that will become melt-in-your-mouth delicious after slow cooking.
- 1 pack of Lipton onion soup mix: Adds a burst of flavor to the dish.
- 1 pack of brown gravy mix: Enhances the savory taste of the beef and creates a rich sauce.
- 1 can of cream of mushroom (10.5 oz can): Provides a creamy base and depth of flavor.
- 1 small can of mushrooms: Adds texture and earthy flavor to the dish.
- 1 can worth of beef broth: Use the cream of mushroom can to measure the beef broth for added convenience.
- Egg noodles: The perfect accompaniment to soak up all the delicious sauce.
With these simple ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. The combination of tender beef, savory gravy, and creamy mushroom sauce served over egg noodles is simply irresistible.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Gather all your ingredients: 1 lb of stew meat, 1 pack of Lipton onion soup mix, 1 pack of brown gravy mix, 1 can of cream of mushroom (10.5 oz can), 1 small can of mushrooms, 1 can worth of beef broth (using the cream of mushroom can for measurement), and egg noodles.
- Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot
- In your crockpot, add the stew meat, Lipton onion soup mix, brown gravy mix, cream of mushroom, mushrooms, and beef broth. Stir everything together until the ingredients are well combined. This will ensure that the flavors meld together as they cook.
- Step 3: Cook on Low
- Set your crockpot to the low setting and cook for 8 hours. The low, slow cooking process will make the beef incredibly tender and allow all the flavors to develop fully.
- Step 4: Cook the Egg Noodles
- When the beef mixture is almost done, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves bringing a pot of water to a boil, adding the noodles, and cooking them until they are al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- Step 5: Serve
- Once the noodles are cooked and drained, serve the beef mixture over the hot egg noodles. The noodles will absorb some of the delicious sauce, making each bite flavorful and satisfying.
By following these steps, you’ll have a delicious and comforting meal ready with minimal effort. The slow cooking process takes care of most of the work, allowing you to go about your day while dinner cooks itself.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: This Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles dish is best served hot, straight out of the crockpot. The rich, savory sauce pairs perfectly with the tender beef and egg noodles. For added flavor and texture, you can sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top. This dish makes a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad to round out the meal.
- Storage: If you have any leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before storing. Transfer the beef mixture and noodles into separate airtight containers and refrigerate. The beef mixture can be stored for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the beef mixture in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, and heat the noodles in the microwave or in a pot of boiling water for a few minutes.
Helpful Notes
- Variations:
- Double the Meat: As mentioned, you can use 2 lbs of stew meat for a heartier dish without needing to adjust the other measurements.
- Mushroom Lovers: Add an extra can of mushrooms for more earthy flavor and texture.
- Vegetable Boost: Add chopped carrots, celery, or peas into the crockpot for added nutrition and flavor.
- Chefs' Tips:
- Chef Thomas Keller suggests browning the stew meat in a skillet before adding it to the crockpot to enhance the flavor through caramelization.
- Chef Ina Garten recommends using homemade beef broth if available, as it adds a richer, deeper flavor compared to store-bought broth.
- Chef Gordon Ramsay advises adding a splash of red wine to the mixture for a more complex flavor profile. The alcohol will cook off, leaving behind a rich taste.
- This Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles recipe is versatile and can be easily adapted to suit your taste preferences. Whether you prefer it with extra meat, mushrooms, or vegetables, this dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends.
With these serving and storage tips, helpful notes, and variations, you can enjoy this comforting Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles dish in multiple ways. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is a fantastic addition to your cooking repertoire!