**Introduction**
Beef Tips and Gravy over Egg Noodles is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. This recipe combines tender beef, rich gravy, and soft egg noodles for a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Using a crockpot makes it incredibly convenient, allowing the flavors to meld together while you go about your day. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving something warm and delicious, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
For the Beef Tips:
- 1 lb stew meat (or 2 lbs for a heartier dish)
- 1 packet Lipton onion soup mix
- 1 packet brown gravy mix
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 small can mushrooms (optional but recommended)
- 1 can beef broth (use the cream of mushroom can for measurement)
For the Noodles:
- Egg noodles (cooked separately as per package instructions)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Crockpot:
- Add stew meat to the crockpot.
- Sprinkle in the Lipton onion soup mix and brown gravy mix.
- Add cream of mushroom soup and mushrooms (if using).
- Add the Broth:
- Fill the empty cream of mushroom soup can with beef broth and pour it into the crockpot.
- Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Slow Cook:
- Cover and cook:
- Low: 6–8 hours
- High: 3–4 hours
- Cook until the beef is tender and the gravy is rich and flavorful.
- Prepare the Noodles:
- About 15 minutes before serving, cook the egg noodles according to the package directions.
- Drain and set aside.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Spoon the beef tips and gravy over a bed of egg noodles.
- Drizzle extra gravy on top for maximum flavor.
**How to Make**
This recipe is incredibly straightforward, making it ideal for both novice and experienced cooks. The crockpot does most of the work, allowing you to focus on other tasks while the dish simmers to perfection. The key is to ensure the beef is fully coated with the soup mix, gravy mix, and broth, as this creates the flavorful base for the dish.
Cooking times can vary depending on your crockpot, so it’s important to check the beef for tenderness before serving. If the meat is fork-tender and the gravy has thickened, the dish is ready. The egg noodles should be cooked just before serving to ensure they remain soft and don’t become mushy.
For an extra touch of flavor, consider searing the beef before adding it to the crockpot. This step adds a caramelized crust to the meat, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. Once everything is cooked, simply assemble the noodles and beef tips, and enjoy a meal that’s both hearty and satisfying.
**Variations**
This recipe is highly adaptable, making it easy to customize based on your preferences or dietary needs. For a different protein option, you can substitute the stew meat with cubed chuck roast, sirloin tips, or even chicken thighs. Each protein brings its own unique flavor and texture to the dish, allowing you to experiment and find your favorite combination.
If you’d like to add more vegetables, consider tossing in carrots, peas, or green beans during the last hour of cooking. These additions not only enhance the nutritional value of the dish but also add color and variety. For a richer flavor profile, replace half of the beef broth with red wine, which adds depth and complexity to the gravy.
For those looking for a dairy-free option, simply use a dairy-free cream of mushroom soup substitute. Additionally, adding a bay leaf or fresh thyme sprigs to the crockpot can infuse the dish with an aromatic, herbaceous twist. These variations ensure that the recipe can be tailored to suit a wide range of tastes and dietary requirements.
**Tips**
To elevate the flavor of the dish, consider searing the stew meat before adding it to the crockpot. This step creates a caramelized crust on the beef, adding a deeper, more complex taste to the final dish. If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of water and stir it into the crockpot during the last thirty minutes of cooking.
When cooking the egg noodles, be sure to follow the package instructions carefully to avoid overcooking. Overcooked noodles can become mushy and lose their texture, which can detract from the overall dish. For the best results, cook the noodles just before serving and drain them well.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the gravy if needed. The beef tips and gravy can also be frozen for up to three months, making this dish a great option for meal prep.
**How to Store**
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of beef broth or water to maintain the gravy’s consistency. For longer storage, the beef tips and gravy can be frozen for up to three months. Be sure to cook fresh egg noodles when reheating, as frozen noodles can become soggy.
**Conclusion**
Beef Tips and Gravy over Egg Noodles is a timeless, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its simplicity and versatility make it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or special family dinners. The tender beef, rich gravy, and soft noodles come together to create a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.
Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations, this dish is sure to please. Its ease of preparation and ability to be customized make it a staple in any kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, set your crockpot, and enjoy a meal that’s as comforting as it is flavorful.