Introduction
Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that combines tender chunks of beef with hearty noodles in a savory, rich gravy. Perfect for busy weeknights, this slow-cooked meal offers convenience without sacrificing flavor, making it a family favorite.
The History of Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles
The use of slow cookers, or Crockpots, revolutionized home cooking in the 1970s, allowing people to prepare meals with minimal effort. Beef tips & noodles, a variation on traditional beef stew, became popular due to its simplicity and the ease of cooking it in a slow cooker. This dish reflects classic American comfort food, emphasizing convenience and heartiness.
Ingredients Breakdown
- Beef Tips: Typically chuck or sirloin, cut into bite-sized pieces, which become tender and flavorful after slow cooking.
- Egg Noodles: A type of pasta that absorbs the gravy well and adds texture.
- Beef Broth: Provides the base for the gravy, enhancing the beef’s flavor.
- Onions: Adds depth and sweetness to the dish.
- Garlic: Imparts a savory aroma and enhances the overall flavor.
- Carrots: Adds a touch of sweetness and color.
- Mushrooms: Adds umami and richness to the gravy.
- Soy Sauce: Contributes a savory depth and enhances the beef flavor.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Adds complexity and tang to the gravy.
- Cornstarch or Flour: Used to thicken the gravy.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor.
Step-by-Step Recipe
- Prepare Ingredients:
- Cut beef into bite-sized pieces.
- Slice onions, carrots, and mushrooms.
- Brown the Beef (Optional):
- In a skillet, heat a little oil and brown the beef tips on all sides for extra flavor. This step can be skipped for a simpler recipe.
- Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot:
- Add beef tips, onions, garlic, carrots, and mushrooms to the Crockpot.
- Mix the Sauce:
- In a bowl, combine beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and any desired seasonings. Pour over the beef and vegetables in the Crockpot.
- Cook:
- Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender.
- Thicken the Gravy:
- Mix cornstarch or flour with a small amount of cold water to create a slurry. Stir into the Crockpot and cook for an additional 30 minutes on high until the gravy thickens.
- Cook the Noodles:
- About 30 minutes before serving, cook egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Combine and Serve:
- Stir cooked noodles into the beef mixture. Serve warm.
Tips for the Perfect Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles
- Choose the Right Cut of Beef: Use cuts like chuck or sirloin for the best tenderness and flavor after slow cooking.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Crockpot: Ensure there’s enough room for steam to circulate, which helps in even cooking.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste the gravy and adjust salt, pepper, or other seasonings as needed before serving.
- Avoid Overcooking Noodles: Add noodles towards the end of cooking to avoid them becoming mushy.
Variations and Customizations
- Vegetable Variations: Swap out or add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or potatoes.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, parsley, or bay leaves for unique flavors.
- Creamy Version: Stir in a cup of sour cream or heavy cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a richer sauce.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for some heat.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Value
Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles can be a hearty and filling meal, but it’s important to be mindful of its nutritional content:
- Calories: Approximately 400-600 calories per serving, depending on portion size and ingredients.
- Fat: Contains moderate amounts of fat, including saturated fat from the beef.
- Nutrients: Provides protein from the beef, carbohydrates from the noodles, and various vitamins and minerals from the vegetables.
For a healthier option, consider using lean beef, reducing the amount of oil, and increasing the vegetable content. Opt for whole-grain noodles for added fiber.
FAQ
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the dish a day in advance. Cook as directed, then refrigerate. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, leftovers can be frozen. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Yes, you can use other types of pasta, but keep in mind that cooking times and textures may vary. Add pasta towards the end of cooking to avoid overcooking.
Q: How can I make this dish gluten-free? A: Use gluten-free beef broth, soy sauce, and cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. Substitute gluten-free noodles or skip the noodles altogether.
Q: Can I cook this dish on the stovetop instead? A: Yes, you can cook the beef tips and vegetables in a large pot on the stovetop. Simmer on low heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours, adding noodles in the last 30 minutes.
Crockpot beef tips & noodles
Ingredients
- 1.5 Pound Beef Roast cut into 1 inch pieces
- 1 Tbsp Butter
- 1/2 Onion diced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 Bay Leaves
- 1/2 tsp Dried Thyme Leaves
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Pepper
- 1 Tbsp Cornstarch
- 1/4 cup Cold Water
- 12 oz Extra Wide Egg Noodles
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add in the butter and onion and sauté until the onion is translucent (3-4 minutes).
- Add in the beef and brown the beef in the skillet with the onions (8-10 minutes) over medium heat.
- Then pour 2 cups of the beef broth into the skillet and add in the seasoning. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover and simmer for 20-30 minutes until the beef is tender. Watch closely and slowly add in the last cup of the beef broth as the broth starts to cook off.
- Mix the cornstarch into the 1/4 cup cold water in a separate bowl. Stir this mixture into the skillet mixture and allow this to cook for 10 minutes or until the sauce has thickened.
- While the sauce is thickening, cook the egg noodles in a separate pot based on the package instructions.
- Serve the beef mixture over the egg noodles and enjoy!