Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender slow-cooked beef, rich savory gravy, and buttery egg noodles for a meal that’s both hearty and satisfying. This dish is perfect for busy families looking for an easy, hands-off meal that delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
The slow cooker method enhances the tenderness of the beef by allowing it to cook low and slow, breaking down tough connective tissues. As the beef simmers in a savory blend of broth, seasonings, and creamy mushroom gravy, it absorbs all the delicious flavors, making each bite melt-in-your-mouth tender.
One of the best things about this recipe is its budget-friendly nature. Using affordable cuts of beef like stew meat, chuck roast, or sirloin tips, you can create a restaurant-quality meal without breaking the bank. Plus, the simple ingredients used in this dish are likely already in your pantry, making it an effortless weeknight dinner option.
Whether you’re looking for a warm, comforting dish on a cold evening or a crowd-pleasing meal for the whole family, Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles is a must-try recipe that delivers big on taste and convenience.
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Why You’ll Love Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles
✅ Minimal Ingredients: This dish relies on simple pantry staples like beef broth, soup mix, and gravy mix, making it easy to prepare with ingredients you likely already have.
✅ Hands-Off Cooking: Just toss everything into the crockpot and let it do the work. No need to stand over the stove!
✅ Rich, Flavorful Sauce: The slow-cooked gravy is thick, savory, and coats every bite of beef and noodles perfectly.
✅ Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish stores and reheats beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers or batch cooking.
✅ Kid & Family-Friendly: The creamy, beefy flavors appeal to both kids and adults, making it a great go-to meal for the whole family.
Whether you need a weeknight dinner, meal prep option, or cozy dish for a lazy weekend, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!
Essential Ingredients for Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles
To make this dish rich, flavorful, and perfectly tender, you’ll need a few key ingredients:
For the Beef Tips:
- Beef Tips: Choose chuck roast, sirloin tips, or stew meat for the most tender results.
- Seasonings: A blend of salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and smoked paprika enhances the beef’s natural flavors.
- Flour (Optional): Lightly coating the beef in flour before searing helps thicken the gravy later.
For the Gravy:
- Beef Broth: Provides a rich, meaty base for the sauce.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: Adds creaminess and depth to the gravy.
- Worcestershire Sauce & Soy Sauce: These two ingredients enhance the umami flavor and give the dish a deeper, more savory taste.
- Onion Soup Mix or Brown Gravy Mix: This shortcut ingredient helps create a flavorful, well-seasoned gravy without extra effort.
For the Noodles:
- Egg Noodles: The best choice for absorbing the rich, slow-cooked gravy. Their soft texture pairs perfectly with the tender beef.
- Butter or Olive Oil: Tossing the cooked noodles with a bit of butter or olive oil prevents sticking and adds a touch of richness.
With these simple but essential ingredients, you’ll create a flavor-packed dish that’s easy, comforting, and absolutely delicious! 😊
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles
Follow this detailed step-by-step guide to create tender, flavorful beef tips in a rich, savory gravy, all served over buttery egg noodles.
For a creamy twist, try incorporating sour cream or heavy cream, similar to what’s used in this Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup.
Step 1: Preparing the Beef
- Choosing the Right Cut of Beef
- The best cuts for tender, slow-cooked beef tips are:
✅ Chuck roast – Budget-friendly, flavorful, and tender when slow-cooked.
✅ Sirloin tips – Leaner but still tender with a beefy flavor.
✅ Stew meat – A mix of various cuts, great for slow cooking.
- The best cuts for tender, slow-cooked beef tips are:
- Searing for Maximum Flavor (Optional but Recommended)
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a pan over medium-high heat.
- Lightly coat the beef with flour, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (flour helps thicken the gravy).
- Sear the beef for 2–3 minutes per side until browned.
- Transfer the beef to the crockpot.
💡 Pro Tip: Searing locks in juices and creates a rich, caramelized crust, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
Step 2: Mixing the Ingredients
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 packet onion soup mix OR 2 tablespoons brown gravy mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder & ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Pour the mixture over the beef in the crockpot, ensuring it is fully coated.
💡 Pro Tip: For extra depth of flavor, stir in ½ teaspoon thyme or rosemary.
Step 3: Slow Cooking the Beef Tips
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours (best for tender, fall-apart beef).
- OR cook on HIGH for 3–4 hours (if short on time, but beef may be less tender).
💡 Pro Tip: Avoid lifting the lid too often, as it releases steam and slows down cooking.
Step 4: Cooking the Noodles
When to Add Noodles:
- Cook the egg noodles separately to prevent them from becoming mushy.
- About 20 minutes before serving, boil 12 oz of egg noodles in salted water until al dente.
- Drain and toss with a little butter or olive oil to prevent sticking.
💡 Pro Tip: Mix the noodles into the crockpot just before serving or serve them separately to maintain their texture.
Step 5: Final Adjustments & Serving
- How to Thicken the Sauce (If Needed)
- Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water and stir into the crockpot.
- Cook on HIGH for 15 minutes until thickened.
- Serving Suggestions
- Spoon the beef tips and gravy over the buttery egg noodles.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, cracked black pepper, or parmesan cheese.
💡 Pro Tip: Serve with crusty garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Delicious Variations of Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles
Customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs:
1. Creamy Beef Tips & Noodles 🥛
- Stir in ½ cup sour cream or heavy cream just before serving for an extra creamy gravy.
2. Spicy Beef Tips & Noodles 🌶️
- Add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes or 1 tablespoon hot sauce for a spicy kick.
3. Mushroom & Onion Beef Tips 🍄🧅
- Sauté ½ cup sliced mushrooms and 1 small caramelized onion before adding them to the crockpot for extra depth of flavor.
4. Gluten-Free Version 🌱
- Substitute gluten-free pasta for egg noodles.
- Use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the gravy.
5. Keto Version 🥑
- Replace noodles with zucchini noodles or mashed cauliflower for a low-carb alternative.
With these variations, you can customize Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles to match your dietary preferences while keeping the dish rich, hearty, and delicious! 😊
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles
Pairing Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles with the right side dishes enhances the meal by adding texture, flavor, and balance. Here are some perfect accompaniments:
1. Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls 🥖
- Soft, buttery rolls or crispy garlic bread are ideal for soaking up the rich gravy.
- Serve warm with a spread of garlic herb butter for extra flavor.
2. Roasted Vegetables (Carrots, Green Beans, or Asparagus) 🥕🌿
- The natural sweetness of roasted carrots or the fresh bite of green beans provides a light contrast to the dish’s richness.
- Drizzle with olive oil, salt, and garlic, then roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes.
3. Mashed Potatoes 🥔
- A creamy, starchy side that pairs beautifully with the thick beef gravy.
- Try garlic mashed potatoes for an extra layer of flavor.
4. Side Salad with Balsamic Dressing 🥗
- A fresh salad with crisp lettuce, tomatoes, and balsamic vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty meal.
💡 Pro Tip: For a lighter meal, pair with steamed broccoli or a cucumber tomato salad!
Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them
Even simple slow-cooker recipes can have issues. Here’s how to fix common problems:
1. Beef is Too Tough
✅ Fix:
- Use low and slow cooking to break down tough connective tissue.
- Ensure you use well-marbled cuts like chuck roast for the most tender results.
- If the beef is still tough, let it cook for an extra hour on low heat.
2. Sauce is Too Thin
✅ Fix:
- Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water to create a slurry.
- Stir it into the crockpot 30 minutes before serving, then cook on high until thickened.
3. Noodles Are Too Soft
✅ Fix:
- Cook the noodles separately and stir them into the beef mixture just before serving.
- Avoid overcooking by boiling the noodles until al dente.
💡 Pro Tip: If the noodles absorb too much sauce, add extra broth before serving!
By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll ensure your Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles turn out perfectly tender, flavorful, and satisfying every time! 😊
FAQs About Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles
Can I use frozen beef?
Yes! You can use frozen beef, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time by 1–2 hours on low to ensure it cooks through properly. However, for the best flavor and texture, it’s recommended to thaw the beef overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, warm the beef tips and noodles on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth to restore moisture and prevent the dish from drying out.
Can I make this dish in an Instant Pot?
Yes! To make Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles in an Instant Pot:
- Sear the beef using the Sauté function for extra flavor.
- Add the broth, seasonings, and soup, then pressure cook on HIGH for 35 minutes.
- Let it do a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then stir in the cooked noodles.
Can I use a different type of noodle?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are the traditional choice, you can also use:
✅ Pappardelle or fettuccine for a wider, heartier pasta option.
✅ Rice or mashed potatoes for a non-pasta alternative.
✅ Gluten-free noodles if you have dietary restrictions.
Conclusion: Why Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles is a Must-Try Recipe
Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles is the perfect combination of rich, slow-cooked flavors, tender beef, and comforting noodles. It’s an easy, hands-off meal that delivers restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort.
This dish is incredibly versatile—you can customize it with different seasonings, variations, and side dishes to suit your taste. Whether you serve it over egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice, it’s a meal that everyone will love.
Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or feeding a crowd, this hearty, satisfying recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Try it once, and it’ll be a go-to comfort meal in your home! 😊
