This easy slow cooker beef tips over rice dish is all about comfort! Tender beef cooked in a savory sauce, served over fluffy rice—what’s not to love?
It’s like a warm hug on a plate! I love to toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work. Dinner practically makes itself, and I have more time for snacks while I wait! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: Chuck roast is my top choice for this recipe. It’s tender and flavorful when cooked low and slow. If you prefer, brisket or even ground beef can work, though ground meat will cook faster.
Red Wine: This adds depth to the sauce. If you don’t have any or prefer not to use wine, simply use more beef broth. I find that a splash of vinegar can also enhance the flavor without the wine.
Mushrooms: Adding mushrooms gives a lovely umami flavor. If you’re not a fan, feel free to skip them, or substitute them with bell peppers for a different flavor profile.
Vegetable Oil: While I use vegetable oil for browning, you can use olive oil or any cooking oil you prefer. Don’t skip this step; browning adds tons of flavor!
How Do You Get the Beef to Be Tender?
The key to tender beef tips lies in the slow cooking method. Here’s how to do it right:
- Brown the beef first! This step locks in flavors and creates a nice crust.
- Cook on low heat: This allows the meat to break down gently. If you’re in a hurry, high heat works too but won’t be as tender.
- Let it simmer: The longer the beef cooks, the more tender it becomes. Aim for at least 6 hours on low.
- Thicken with cornstarch: This helps create a nice gravy texture that clings to the beef when you serve it.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly tender beef tips every time!
Easy Slow Cooker Beef Tips Over Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Tips:
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms (optional)
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional, or replace with more beef broth)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for browning)
- Cooked white or brown rice, for serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 15 minutes of prep time to get everything ready, and then you simply let your slow cooker do the magic! You will need 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high to cook the beef until it’s tender and flavorful.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Beef:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef stew meat. Brown the beef on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. This step adds flavor! Once browned, transfer the beef to your slow cooker.
2. Sautéing the Veggies:
In the same skillet, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes or until they’re softened and aromatic. If you’re using mushrooms, add them now and cook for another 2-3 minutes. When done, transfer all these veggies to the slow cooker with the beef.
3. Adding the Liquid and Seasoning:
Now it’s time to create your sauce! Pour in the beef broth along with the red wine (if you’re using it) and Worcestershire sauce. Don’t forget to sprinkle in the dried thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until nicely combined.
4. Slow Cooking:
Cover your slow cooker and let it work its magic! Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the beef is super tender.
5. Thicken the Sauce:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, mix cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl. Stir until smooth, then add this to the slow cooker to thicken your sauce. Cover it up and let it cook for another 20-30 minutes.
6. Serving Time:
When everything is ready, serve the delicious beef tips and sauce over a warm bed of rice. Don’t forget to garnish with some chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
7. Enjoy!
Dig in and savor every bite of this hearty meal! Perfect for a cozy dinner at home.
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen beef, but it’s best if you thaw it first. Thaw the beef overnight in the refrigerator or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water until thawed. Then, brown it according to the instructions before adding it to the slow cooker.
What Can I Use Instead of Red Wine?
If you’re not using red wine, simply replace it with an equal amount of beef broth. You can also add a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice for some acidity to brighten the flavors!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! If you’d like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or even diced jalapeños when cooking. Adjust to your preferred spice level! Just be sure to start small and taste as you go!
