Some recipes are more than just food – they’re a lifeline for busy families. These slow cooker beef tips emerged from countless evenings of juggling work, family, and the constant question, “What’s for dinner?” With just a few minutes of morning prep, you can come home to a meal that tastes like it’s been lovingly tended to all day. The magic of the slow cooker transforms tough cuts of beef into a tender, flavor-packed dish that makes everyone at the table feel truly cared for.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly tender beef
• Minimal morning prep
• Set-it-and-forget-it cooking
• Perfect for busy weeknights
• Freezer-friendly
• Serves a crowd
• Comfort food at its finest
• Meal prep champion

Recipe Quick Facts

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Slow Cook Time: 6-8 hours
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: 6-8 people
• Calories: Approximately 320 calories per serving

Ingredients & Equipment

For the Beef Tips

• 3 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Gravy Finish

• 1/4 cup cold water
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Optional Vegetables

• Sliced mushrooms
• Carrots
• Celery
• Pearl onions

Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef
   Pat beef cubes dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and black pepper.
2. Sear the Meat
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Sear beef in batches until golden brown on all sides. This step builds incredible flavor.
3. Prepare Slow Cooker Base
   In the slow cooker, combine beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Whisk to combine.
4. Layer Ingredients
   Add seared beef to slow cooker. Top with chopped onions, minced garlic, dried thyme, and rosemary.
5. Slow Cook
   Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours, until beef is extremely tender.
6. Prepare Gravy
   In the last 30 minutes, mix cold water with cornstarch to create a slurry. Stir into slow cooker to thicken sauce.
7. Finish and Serve
   Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.

Expert Tips

1. Searing Secret: Don’t skip browning the meat. It develops deep, complex flavors.
2. Meat Selection: Choose chuck roast or stew meat with good marbling.
3. Liquid Ratio: Ensure meat is mostly covered with liquid for best results.

Substitutions and Variations

• Meat Alternatives:
• Pork roast
• Venison
• Lamb
• Chicken thighs
• Liquid Variations:
• Beef stock
• Vegetable broth
• Beer
• Additional wine
• Flavor Boosters:
• Add red pepper flakes
• Use different herbs
• Incorporate bay leaves
• Add mushrooms

Troubleshooting Guide

• Tough Meat:
• Ensure low, slow cooking
• Choose well-marbled cuts
• Don’t lift lid too often
• Thin Sauce:
• Use cornstarch slurry
• Reduce sauce on stovetop
• Add more tomato paste

Storage and Meal Prep

• Refrigeration: Store 3-4 days in airtight container
• Freezing: Freeze up to 3 months
• Reheating:
• Microwave with splash of broth
• Stovetop low and slow
• Prep Tip: Can be made day ahead

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this without wine?
A: Yes! Use additional beef broth.

Q: Is this gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free cornstarch and check broth.

Q: Can I add vegetables?
A: Add hardy vegetables in last 2 hours.

Q: Good for meal prep?
A: Excellent for batch cooking!

Final Thoughts

These Slow Cooker Beef Tips are more than a meal – they’re a warm embrace, a solution to busy days, and a reminder that the best food takes time.

Savor every tender bite!