Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy Recipe

If you have been searching for a comforting, hearty meal to brighten up your weeknights, look no further than this Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy. Tender slow cooker beef tips simmered to perfection combine with smoked turkey bacon and a rich, savory mushroom gravy to create a dish that feels like a warm embrace. This recipe brings together fabulous flavors and textures that effortlessly come together in your slow cooker, making dinner both delicious and incredibly easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Comfort Food: Set it and forget it in the slow cooker for a fuss-free, soul-satisfying dinner.
• Deep Rich Flavors: The mushroom gravy and smoked turkey bacon add layers of savory goodness that melt in your mouth.
• Tender, Juicy Beef: Simmering slowly ensures the beef tips become incredibly tender and flavorful every time.
• Family-Friendly: A recipe that pleases kids and adults alike, perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions.
• Versatile and Adaptable: Easily customizable with your favorite sides or variations for different tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each adds incredible taste, texture, or color, turning basic pantry staples into a mouthwatering, comforting meal.

• Beef Tips: Choose tender cuts like sirloin or chuck for juicy bites that soak up all the gravy flavors.
• Smoked Turkey Bacon: Adds a wonderful smoky, salty note that enhances the overall depth.
• Cremini or White Mushrooms: Provide earthiness and texture to the rich mushroom gravy.
• Vegetarian Worcestershire Sauce: Brings a touch of umami and complexity to the sauce.
• Beef Broth: Forms the savory base of the gravy and keeps everything moist.
• Onions and Garlic: Essential aromatics that build layers of flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour or Natural Gelling Agent: Thickens the mushroom gravy to a perfect, silky consistency.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a subtle tang that brightens and balances the richness.
• Fresh Herbs: Thyme or parsley (plant-based) add freshness and a pop of color.
• Olive Oil or Plant-Based Butter: For sautéing and enriching the gravy’s body.

Variations for Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy

This recipe is delightfully adaptable, making it easy to customize according to your preferences, dietary needs, or what you have on hand. Feel free to experiment and discover your favorite twists.

• Veggie Boost: Add carrots, celery, or pearl onions for extra veggies and sweetness.
• Herbs and Spices: Swap thyme with rosemary or add smoked paprika for a smoky edge.
• Plant-Based Option: Substitute beef tips with hearty mushrooms or plant-based beef alternatives.
• Creamier Gravy: Stir in plant-based cream cheese or coconut milk for a silkier texture.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some gentle heat.

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Trim the beef tips of excess fat and pat them dry to help them brown nicely. Chop the smoked turkey bacon into bite-sized pieces and slice the mushrooms. Finely dice the onions and mince the garlic to release maximum flavor in the final dish.

Step 2: Brown the Beef Tips and Smoked Turkey Bacon

Heat olive oil or plant-based butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef tips in batches until they get a rich brown crust, which locks in flavor. Remove the beef and quickly sauté the smoked turkey bacon until crispy to add that irresistible smoky crunch.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics and Mushrooms

In the same skillet, add onions and garlic, cooking until translucent and fragrant. Toss in the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and turn golden, concentrating the flavors that will deepen the gravy’s richness.

Step 4: Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker

Transfer the seared beef tips, crispy smoked turkey bacon, sautéed mushrooms, onions, and garlic to your slow cooker. Pour in beef broth, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and sprinkle with fresh thyme or parsley for fresh herbal notes. Stir everything gently to combine.

Step 5: Cook Low and Slow

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. The low temperature tenderizes the beef tips perfectly while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 6: Thicken the Mushroom Gravy

Once cooked, stir in flour or your chosen natural gelling agent mixed with a little cold water to the cooking liquid in the slow cooker. Let it cook uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes to thicken the gravy to a luscious, silky consistency.

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy

• Sear for Flavor: Don’t skip browning the beef and turkey bacon; it adds key layers of richness.
• Use Fresh Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms create a better texture and more vibrant flavor than dried or canned.
• Natural Gelling Agent Mix: Mix with cold water before adding to avoid lumps in the gravy.
• Low and Slow: Cooking on low heat yields the most tender beef tips.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking to thicken further and develop flavors.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley or thyme leaves add a burst of color and fresh herbal aroma, brightening the deep flavors of the gravy. A sprinkle of cracked black pepper on top also enhances the appearance and flavor.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes (plant-based), buttered egg noodles, or fluffy rice to soak up the savory mushroom gravy. Steamed or roasted green beans and glazed carrots make perfect vibrant complements that balance the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the beef tips over a bed of garlic-infused polenta or cauliflower mash (plant-based) for a unique twist. For an elegant presentation, plate it in shallow bowls topped with herb garnishes and a drizzle of extra mushroom gravy around the edges.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen further, making leftovers even tastier.

Freezing

This recipe freezes wonderfully. Portion the leftovers into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to cool completely before freezing to maintain texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of beef broth or water if the gravy becomes too thick during reheating.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?

Absolutely! Cuts like chuck roast or sirloin steak work well as long as they are cut into bite-sized tips and cooked slowly to become tender.

Is it necessary to brown the beef tips before slow cooking?

Browning adds rich flavor and seals in juices, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step just know the depth of flavor might be slightly less intense.

How do I make the mushroom gravy thicker?

Mix a small amount of flour or natural gelling agent with cold water, stir into the slow cooker liquid, and cook uncovered until it reaches your desired gravy consistency.

Can I prepare this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can use an Instant Pot by using the sauté function to brown meat and vegetables, then pressure cooking the beef tips for about 35 minutes, followed by a quick release.

What are some good substitutes for smoked turkey bacon?

You can use smoked turkey slices or plant-based bacon alternatives for a similar smoky flavor and texture in this recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy is truly a weeknight game changer. It combines ease, flavor, and comfort effortlessly so you can enjoy a homemade meal without any stress. Whether you’re feeding family or just craving something cozy and satisfying, this dish is sure to become a beloved favorite. Give it a try and watch your slow cooker work its magic!

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