This Easy Crockpot Beef Tips and Noodles dish is perfect for busy days! Tender beef, flavorful broth, and soft noodles all simmer together for a comforting meal.
You just toss everything in the crockpot and let it do the work—how easy is that? I love serving this with a sprinkle of parsley. It always feels like a warm hug on a plate!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: Chuck roast works great for this recipe, as it becomes tender when cooked slowly. If you’re looking for leaner meat, you can use sirloin, but keep in mind it might not be as juicy.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This adds creaminess and flavor. If you prefer a healthier version, opt for low-fat or homemade soup. You can also use cream of chicken soup if you want to switch things up.
Egg Noodles: While egg noodles are classic, feel free to use any pasta you like, such as wide noodles, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta. Just adjust cooking times accordingly!
Beef Broth: For additional flavor, you can replace beef broth with red wine or add in some beef bouillon cubes. If you’re keeping it vegetarian, vegetable broth can work too.
How Do I Get Tender Beef in the Crockpot?
To achieve melt-in-your-mouth beef, it’s crucial to brown the meat first. This step creates a nice crust and intensifies flavor. Adding a good amount of broth and cooking low and slow is key too. Here’s how:
- Preheat your skillet to medium-high heat. Add olive oil and wait until it shimmers.
- Brown the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding—about 2-3 minutes per side should do it! This enhances the taste and texture.
- Once browned, add any remaining ingredients to the crockpot and let it work its magic!
Easy Crockpot Beef Tips and Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time, plus 6-8 hours of cooking on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crockpot. Don’t forget to reserve about 30 minutes at the end to cook the noodles. It’s a simple, hands-off meal that can fit around your busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat and cook until it’s browned on all sides, usually about 5 minutes. This step adds lots of flavor, so it’s worth it, but if you’re short on time, you can skip it and add everything directly to the crockpot.
2. Add Ingredients to the Crockpot:
Once the beef is browned (or ready to skip), transfer it to the crockpot. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine the ingredients well.
3. Cook:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the beef is tender and easily shreds with a fork. Resist the temptation to open the lid too often—it can let heat out!
4. Cook the Noodles:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions in a separate pot until they’re al dente. Once they’re done, drain them and set aside.
5. Combine and Serve:
Once the beef is done cooking, gently stir the cooked egg noodles into the beef mixture in the crockpot. Let it warm through for about 10-15 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious beef tips and noodles hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for an added touch. Enjoy every comforting bite!
Happy cooking! Your easy, hearty meal is ready to warm you up anytime!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Beef Stew Meat?
Yes, you can use frozen beef stew meat! Just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. You can thaw it in the fridge overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Brushing off any excess moisture before browning will help achieve that nice sear.
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Mushroom Soup?
If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup, you can easily substitute with cream of chicken soup or even homemade mushroom sauce. For a lighter option, try using a can of low-fat or reduced-sodium cream of mushroom soup.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Definitely! Substitute the egg noodles with gluten-free pasta, and ensure that the cream of mushroom soup and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free as well. There are many great gluten-free options available!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. You may want to add a splash of broth or water to loosen up the dish as it reheats.
