Creamy Crockpot Beef Tips & Mushrooms
Introduction
There’s something comforting about a warm, hearty meal that has been simmering in a crockpot all day long. One of my all-time favorite recipes to make in the slow cooker is Creamy Crockpot Beef Tips & Mushrooms. This dish is packed with tender beef, earthy mushrooms, and a rich, creamy sauce that is simply irresistible. I first discovered this recipe from my dear friend Sarah, who shared it with me during a potluck dinner. It was an instant hit, and now it has become a beloved family favorite. Let me share with you the step-by-step instructions to recreate this delicious meal in your own kitchen.
Instructions
To start, gather all the ingredients you’ll need:
– 2 pounds of beef stew meat
– 1 onion, diced
– 8 ounces of mushrooms, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of beef broth
– 1 cup of sour cream
– 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
1. Begin by seasoning the beef stew meat with salt and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Once the oil is hot, sear the beef on all sides until browned. This step helps to seal in the flavors and adds a nice caramelized crust to the meat.
2. Transfer the seared beef to your crockpot. Add the diced onions, sliced mushrooms, and minced garlic to the crockpot.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Pour this mixture over the beef and vegetables in the crockpot.
4. Give everything a gentle stir to ensure that the meat and vegetables are coated with the creamy sauce.
5. Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 4-6 hours. The beef will become tender and the flavors will meld together beautifully.
6. Once the cooking time is up, give the mixture a good stir. The sauce should be thick and creamy, coating every piece of beef and mushroom.
7. Serve the Creamy Crockpot Beef Tips & Mushrooms over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes or buttered noodles. The sauce is so delicious that you’ll want to savor every last drop!
8. Enjoy this comforting and satisfying meal with your loved ones. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or when entertaining guests.
Variations
While the classic Creamy Crockpot Beef Tips & Mushrooms recipe is already a winner, you can always add your own personal touch to make it even more special:
– Add a splash of red wine to the sauce for a deeper flavor.
– Experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as cremini or shiitake, to add an earthy twist.
– If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry. Stir this into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking to thicken the sauce.
Keto Version
If you’re following a keto lifestyle, you can easily adapt this recipe to fit your dietary needs:
– Replace the sour cream with full-fat Greek yogurt.
– Serve the beef tips and mushrooms over cauliflower rice instead of mashed potatoes or noodles.
– Omit the onions or use a smaller amount to reduce the carb content.
FAQ
Q: Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! While beef stew meat is traditionally used for this dish, you can substitute it with chuck roast or sirloin steak. Just make sure to cut the beef into bite-sized pieces before cooking.
Q: Can I make this recipe on the stovetop instead of using a crockpot?
A: Yes, you can. Simply follow the same steps, but instead of transferring everything to a crockpot, simmer the beef and vegetables in a covered pot over low heat for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Absolutely! This recipe freezes well. Allow the beef tips and mushrooms to cool completely before transferring them to freezer-safe containers or bags. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Conclusion
Creamy Crockpot Beef Tips & Mushrooms is a true crowd-pleaser that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. This recipe holds a special place in my heart as it has been passed down through the years and has become a cherished family favorite. The tender beef, flavorful mushrooms, and creamy sauce create a harmonious combination that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a cozy family dinner, this dish is sure to impress. Give it a try and create your own cherished memories around the dinner table!
