This Easy Slow Cooker Beef Tips Over Rice dish is perfect for busy days! The beef is tender and flavorful, swimming in a rich sauce that will make your taste buds dance.
Honestly, it’s like a warm hug in a bowl! I love serving it over fluffy rice, and there’s just something about that combo that makes me smile. Plus, who doesn’t love a meal that cooks itself?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: This is the star of the dish! I love using chuck roast since it becomes very tender after slow cooking. If you’re looking for a leaner option, sirloin or round cuts work too.
Onion: A medium onion adds great flavor. You can switch to shallots or even green onions if you prefer a milder taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a wonderful aroma. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, but start with less since it’s stronger.
Red Wine: This adds depth to the flavor. If you don’t want to use wine, additional beef broth or even grape juice works as a substitute.
Mushrooms: Adding mushrooms boosts the umami flavor. If you’re not a fan, you can skip them altogether.
Cornstarch: This helps thicken the sauce. If you don’t have cornstarch, you can use flour instead; just mix a bit more water into it to avoid lumps.
How Do I Get the Beef to Be Extra Tender?
The key to perfectly tender beef tips is the slow cooking method. The longer you let it cook on low heat, the more tender it becomes. Here are some helpful tips:
- Start with beef that has good marbling; this fat helps keep the meat moist.
- Ensure you don’t skip searing the meat beforehand. Browning will deepen the flavors.
- Cook low and slow: plan for 7-8 hours on low to achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Let the beef sit in the sauce for a bit before serving; it absorbs flavors better this way.
Enjoy making this easy and delicious dish with tender beef tips over rice!
Easy Slow Cooker Beef Tips Over Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional, or extra beef broth)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
For Thickening:
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
For Serving:
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups cooked white rice (for serving)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting meal takes around 20 minutes to prepare, and then you can sit back and relax as it cooks for 4-8 hours in the slow cooker. Just set it and forget it until dinner time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by placing the beef stew meat, chopped onion, minced garlic, and sliced mushrooms (if using) into your slow cooker. Mixing these basic ingredients together creates a fabulous base for your meal.
2. Make the Flavorful Liquid:
In a separate bowl, combine the beef broth, red wine (if you’re using it), Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. This mixture will give your beef an amazing flavor! Pour it over the meat and veggies in the slow cooker.
3. Let It Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and set it on LOW for 7-8 hours or on HIGH for 4-5 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the beef is very tender and almost falling apart—just how we like it!
4. Thicken the Sauce:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, mix the cornstarch and water in a small bowl until smooth. This slurry will help thicken up your sauce. Stir it into the slow cooker, then replace the lid and cook on HIGH for an additional 20-30 minutes.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
When everything is ready, serve the beef tips over fluffy white rice to soak up that delicious sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy this warm and hearty dish with your family or friends!
Take a moment to savor each bite of this delightful, hassle-free meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Beef Stew Meat?
Yes, you can use frozen beef stew meat, but it’s best to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. If you’re short on time, you can throw it in the slow cooker frozen, but increase the cooking time by an hour or so. Just ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature of 145°F.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. If desired, you can add a splash of beef broth when reheating to loosen up the sauce.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! To make this dish gluten-free, simply ensure that the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free certified. You can also swap out the cornstarch for a gluten-free thickening agent like arrowroot powder, using the same method for thickening the sauce.
What Can I Pair with This Dish?
This dish is wonderful served over rice, but you could also serve it over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or even a bed of roasted vegetables for a hearty meal. A side salad or steamed green beans would complement it nicely as well!
