When you think about comfort food, what comes to mind? Maybe it’s a warm bowl of mac and cheese, or a savory roast that’s been slow-cooked to perfection. But for me, nothing quite beats the feeling of diving into a hearty plate of Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles. This dish is the definition of cozy — tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef tips swimming in a rich, flavorful broth, all served over soft egg noodles that soak up every bit of that savory goodness.
I first made this meal on a chilly winter evening, and it quickly became a family favorite. There’s something so satisfying about letting the slow cooker do all the work while you go about your day, knowing you’ll be greeted by a warm, comforting dinner when you’re ready. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles is one of those meals that is simple yet packed with flavor. It’s the kind of dish that makes your house smell amazing as it cooks, and the longer it simmers, the better it gets. The beef stew meat becomes incredibly tender, almost falling apart with a fork, and the broth is infused with rich flavors from the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and thyme. It’s a dish that’s perfect for any time of year, but especially during colder months when you crave something warm and filling.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a gathering, or just yourself (because hey, we all deserve to treat ourselves to a cozy meal!), this dish is sure to impress. Plus, it’s super easy to customize with vegetables like carrots or mushrooms if you want to add a little extra texture and flavor.
So, let’s get started on making this delicious Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Beef (Optional)
While this step isn’t absolutely necessary, I highly recommend it because it adds so much flavor to the final dish. Start by heating a skillet over medium-high heat and adding a small drizzle of oil. Once the skillet is hot, lightly season the beef tips with salt and pepper, then toss them into the skillet. Brown them on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
Once the beef is browned, transfer it to the crockpot. Searing the beef creates a beautiful caramelized exterior that enhances the overall flavor, but if you’re in a rush or just don’t feel like dirtying an extra pan, you can skip this step and still end up with a delicious meal.
2. Combine the Ingredients
Now that the beef is in the crockpot, it’s time to add the rest of the ingredients. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and black pepper. Give everything a good stir to ensure the beef is coated evenly in the savory mixture.
This is where the magic begins. As the beef cooks, it will absorb all these flavors, resulting in a tender, flavorful dish that you’ll love. The soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce add a rich depth of flavor, while the garlic and onion give it that classic savory vibe that makes this meal feel so homey.
3. Cook in the Crockpot
Now, let the crockpot do its thing! Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, depending on how much time you have. I recommend the low setting if you’re able to plan ahead, as it gives the beef more time to tenderize and soak up all those delicious flavors.
If you’re able to, give it a stir every now and then to ensure the beef is evenly cooked and coated in the broth. However, if you’re busy with other things, don’t worry — it’ll still turn out fantastic. By the end of the cooking time, the beef should be super tender and easy to shred with a fork.
4. Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker, gravy-like sauce (who doesn’t?), you can easily thicken the broth towards the end of the cooking process. To do this, simply mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking, and you’ll have a wonderfully thickened sauce that’s perfect for spooning over your noodles.
This step is totally optional — the sauce will still be delicious without it — but if you like a thicker, more velvety texture, it’s definitely worth the extra few minutes.
5. Cook the Noodles
While the beef is finishing up in the crockpot, it’s time to cook the egg noodles. About 15 minutes before serving, bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the noodles according to the package instructions. Once they’re tender, drain them and toss them with a little butter or olive oil to keep them from sticking together.
Egg noodles are the perfect vehicle for soaking up that rich, beefy sauce, so don’t skimp on them! The texture of the noodles combined with the tender beef and flavorful broth is what makes this meal so comforting.
6. Serve
To serve, plate the cooked egg noodles and ladle the beef tips and sauce over the top. For a little pop of color and freshness, garnish with some chopped parsley. It adds a nice touch, but honestly, the dish is so delicious that it doesn’t need anything extra.
Now, sit back, relax, and enjoy your delicious, comforting meal. The beef is tender, the noodles are perfectly coated in the savory sauce, and the entire dish just screams “home-cooked goodness.”
Tips and Tricks
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Customization: You can easily add extra vegetables like carrots, peas, or mushrooms to the crockpot for added flavor and texture. Just throw them in with the rest of the ingredients, and they’ll cook up beautifully.
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Meat Options: While beef stew meat is perfect for this recipe, you can also use other cuts of beef, like chuck roast, for a slightly different texture.
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Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread to help mop up the sauce. Or, if you’re feeling extra indulgent, a dollop of sour cream on top takes it to the next level.
Continuing with the Recipe and Extra Tips
Now that we’ve gotten the basics down for making Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles, let’s talk about how to perfect this dish and troubleshoot some common questions. Whether you’re a seasoned slow-cooker pro or just diving into this recipe for the first time, I’ve got plenty of tips to help you make this dish even better. And don’t worry, there’s still time to get your noodles just right and have everything come together beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions (Continued):
7. Stir Occasionally
Once you’ve added all your ingredients to the crockpot, cover it up and let it cook low and slow (or on high, if you’re in a hurry). If you can, try to give it a stir every hour or so — this helps ensure that the beef gets evenly coated in the broth, and it keeps everything cooking consistently.
But, I’ll be honest, if you’re busy and forget to stir, no big deal. This dish is incredibly forgiving. Just make sure to check on it occasionally and give everything a quick stir to keep things going smoothly. The beauty of a crockpot meal is that you can set it and forget it — the slow cooking will work its magic!
8. Add a Little More Flavor (Optional)
As the beef and broth cook, it’s a good idea to give it a quick taste check. You can always adjust the seasoning if needed, depending on how salty or flavorful you like your dishes. If you feel like the broth could use a little more depth, try adding a dash more Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, or even a pinch of salt.
Another option is to toss in some herbs like rosemary, bay leaves, or even a sprinkle of onion powder if you want to enhance the flavors further. Just be careful not to go overboard with the salt since the soy sauce already adds a fair amount of seasoning.
9. How to Add Vegetables
One of the best things about this recipe is that you can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables. If you want to add carrots, mushrooms, or peas for extra flavor and texture, feel free to do so!
For carrots and mushrooms, I recommend adding them right at the beginning with the beef and the seasonings so they cook down and become tender. If you’re using peas, you can add them in during the last 30 minutes of cooking to keep them vibrant and tender without turning them mushy.
Tips for Perfecting Your Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles
1. Choosing the Right Beef
While beef stew meat is ideal for this recipe because it’s perfect for slow cooking and becomes tender over time, you could also experiment with other cuts of beef. Chuck roast, for example, can be a great option. It has a rich, beefy flavor and breaks down beautifully when slow-cooked. Just make sure to cut it into bite-sized chunks before adding it to the crockpot.
If you do opt for a different cut of beef, the key is ensuring that it’s marbled with fat, as this will help keep the meat tender and juicy during the long cook time.
2. Thickening the Sauce
As we mentioned earlier, if you prefer a thicker sauce, you can use a cornstarch slurry to create a velvety gravy. This is a great option if you like your dish a little more indulgent, but if you’re aiming for a lighter meal, feel free to skip this step. The natural juices from the beef and broth will still give you a wonderfully flavorful sauce.
If you don’t have cornstarch, you can also use flour to thicken the sauce. Just make sure to cook the flour in a bit of the liquid first (in a separate pan) to avoid any clumps. Then, add it back into the crockpot to thicken up the sauce.
3. Don’t Skip the Buttered Noodles
I can’t stress enough how important the noodles are in this dish. Egg noodles are perfect because they have a soft, slightly chewy texture that soaks up all that delicious broth. But once they’re cooked, don’t forget to toss them in a little butter or olive oil. This keeps them from sticking together and adds a little extra richness to the final dish.
If you’re making this meal for a crowd, or if you’ve got a lot of leftovers, you might want to cook the noodles fresh each time you serve. If you store the noodles separately from the beef mixture, they’ll stay fresh and not get too mushy when reheated.
What to Serve with Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles
This dish is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to serve it alongside a side or two, here are some ideas:
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A Side Salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will help cut through the richness of the beef and sauce, providing a nice contrast.
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Crusty Bread: There’s no better way to mop up that delicious sauce than with a warm slice of crusty bread. It’s perfect for dipping and adds a wonderful texture to the meal.
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Roasted Vegetables: If you’re looking for another veggie-packed side dish, roasted Brussels sprouts or green beans pair wonderfully with this beef dish and add a nice crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage Tips
One of the best things about Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles is that it’s great for meal prep and leftovers. The flavors actually get better the next day, so this dish is perfect for making ahead of time.
If you’re planning to make it a day in advance, just store the beef and sauce separately from the cooked noodles. That way, when you’re ready to serve it again, you can reheat the beef and sauce in the crockpot and quickly cook fresh noodles. It’s a time-saver and ensures that the noodles don’t get soggy in the fridge.
To store leftovers, let everything cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days. If you have a lot of leftovers, you can also freeze the beef and sauce for up to 3 months — just make sure to cook fresh noodles when you reheat it!
Wrapping Up: The Ultimate Comfort Meal
I hope you’re as excited to try this Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles recipe as I was when I first discovered it. It’s a family favorite for a reason — the tender beef, rich sauce, and perfectly cooked noodles come together in the most comforting way possible. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or for a special occasion, it’s sure to be a hit.
So, go ahead, give it a try! And if you make it, let me know how it turned out. I’d love to hear if you tried any fun variations or added your own personal twist to the recipe.
FAQ and Conclusion
By now, you’ve got a good handle on how to make this Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles, but I know sometimes you might have a few lingering questions. So let’s dive into some common ones to make sure you feel fully confident in making this dish. After that, I’ll wrap things up with a few final thoughts to send you on your way to a delicious, comforting meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, absolutely! While beef stew meat is ideal for this recipe because it’s tender and perfect for slow cooking, you can easily substitute it with other cuts of beef. Chuck roast is another great option that works well in a slow cooker. It becomes incredibly tender and flavorful when cooked low and slow, so it’s an excellent choice if you’re looking for something a bit more indulgent.
If you’re using a different cut, make sure to cut it into bite-sized chunks to ensure it cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors of the broth.
2. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
If you’re following a gluten-free diet, you can easily adapt this recipe. Instead of regular egg noodles, simply use gluten-free noodles or pasta. There are many great gluten-free pasta options available in most grocery stores, so you can still enjoy the dish without any issues.
As for the sauce, just make sure that both the soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce you use are gluten-free. Some brands offer gluten-free versions of these sauces, which will keep your dish totally safe and delicious!
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! This recipe is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare the beef tips and sauce in the crockpot, store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. I actually think the flavors deepen and improve overnight, so it’s a great make-ahead meal. Just cook your noodles fresh when you’re ready to serve so they don’t get soggy.
If you want to freeze the leftovers, let the beef and sauce cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave and cook fresh noodles when you’re ready to enjoy.
4. Can I add vegetables to the recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is incredibly versatile when it comes to vegetables. Carrots, peas, and mushrooms are all fantastic additions that will bring extra flavor and texture to the dish. Add the carrots and mushrooms at the same time as the beef and broth so they have enough time to cook through.
If you want to add peas, do so during the last 30 minutes of cooking so they stay bright and tender, not mushy.
5. Can I cook this on high if I don’t have time to cook it on low?
Yes, if you’re short on time, you can cook this on the high setting for 3-4 hours. The beef will still become tender and flavorful, though it may not have quite the same depth of flavor as it would on the low setting. But don’t worry — it will still be delicious!
If you’re making it on high, just keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to make sure the beef cooks evenly and the sauce doesn’t get too thick.
6. Can I use a thickener other than cornstarch?
If you don’t have cornstarch, there are other options you can use to thicken the sauce. You can use flour (make a roux with butter and flour or just add flour directly to the sauce) or arrowroot powder as a gluten-free option. Just make sure to add a slurry (flour or cornstarch mixed with water) towards the end of the cooking time, stirring it in and letting it thicken the sauce over the last 30 minutes.
7. What type of noodles are best for this recipe?
Egg noodles are the classic choice for Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles because of their soft texture and ability to soak up the sauce. However, if you prefer another type of pasta, feel free to swap in any wide, hearty noodles like pappardelle or fettuccine. Just be sure to cook the noodles separately and toss them with a bit of butter or olive oil to prevent them from sticking.
Conclusion: Comfort Food at Its Best
Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles is the ultimate comfort food that checks all the boxes: tender beef, a savory broth, and perfectly cooked noodles that soak up all the delicious flavors. It’s easy to make, customizable with your favorite vegetables or seasonings, and perfect for feeding a family or meal prepping for the week.
This dish also holds up incredibly well as leftovers, and the flavors continue to develop the next day, making it a great make-ahead option. Whether you’re looking for a simple weekday meal or something to impress at a family gathering, this recipe has you covered.
So, grab your slow cooker and start cooking! I’d love to hear how it turns out for you. Drop a comment below if you’ve tried any variations or added your own personal touch. And most importantly, enjoy the cozy, comforting goodness of Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles!
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Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles
Description
Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for a cozy meal. The beef stew meat is slow-cooked in a rich, savory broth with onions, garlic, and seasonings until it becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender. Served over egg noodles, this dish soaks up the flavorful sauce, creating a satisfying and filling meal. The slow-cooked beef tips bring depth of flavor, while the optional thickened gravy adds richness and a silky texture to the dish.
Ingredients
For the Beef Tips:
1.5 lbs beef stew meat (beef tips) – Tender and perfect for slow cooking
1 large onion, chopped – Adds sweetness and flavor to the dish
3 cloves garlic, minced – Provides a savory depth of flavor
1 cup beef broth – The base of the rich, savory sauce
1/2 cup soy sauce – Adds saltiness and umami to the broth
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce – Enhances the beefy flavor
1 teaspoon dried thyme – Adds a subtle herby note
1/2 teaspoon black pepper – For mild heat and seasoning
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional) – For thickening the sauce
For Serving:
12 oz egg noodles – Perfect for soaking up the flavorful beef gravy
Chopped parsley (optional) – For garnish
Instructions
Sear the Beef (Optional) Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of oil. Lightly season the beef tips with salt and pepper, then sear them in the skillet until browned on all sides. Transfer the seared beef to the crockpot. This step is optional but enhances the flavor.
Combine the Ingredients Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and black pepper to the crockpot. Stir to combine and coat the beef evenly in the mixture.
Cook in the Crockpot Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the beef is tender and flavorful. Stir occasionally, if possible, to ensure even cooking.
Thicken the Sauce (Optional) If you’d like a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Cook the Noodles About 15 minutes before serving, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and toss with a little butter or olive oil to prevent sticking.
Serve Plate the cooked noodles and ladle the tender beef tips and sauce over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, and serve immediately.
Notes
This dish can be customized with your favorite seasonings or vegetables. Feel free to add carrots, mushrooms, or peas for additional flavor and texture. The cornstarch is optional but helps create a thicker, more gravy-like sauce if you prefer. If you want to make it even more indulgent, you can top it with a dollop of sour cream or serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
