crockpot beef tips noodles is the kind of dinner you throw together on a busy morning, forget about during the day, and then walk back into your kitchen to that cozy, savory smell that makes everyone ask when dinner is ready. I’ve made this meal more times than I can count because it’s simple, hearty, and it always hits the spot. If you’ve been craving tender beef in a rich gravy with buttery noodles, you’re in the right place. I’ll show you how to make it thick and glossy, how to avoid common mistakes, and how to store leftovers so they taste just as good. No fussy steps. Just a warm bowl of comfort with real flavor.
The Story Behind This Recipe
Here’s why I love this crockpot beef tips noodles: it uses pantry staples and it tastes like home. crockpot beef tips noodles is the kind of dinner you throw together on a busy morning, forget about during the day, and then walk back into…
How to Thicken Beef and Noodles?
Let’s talk about the part that makes this recipe feel so satisfying: the gravy. You want it silky, not watery, and you don’t need fancy tricks to get there. Here are simple ways to thicken the sauce for your crockpot beef tips noodles without stress.
Cornstarch Slurry
This is my go-to. It’s quick, doesn’t make lumps, and you control the thickness easily.
- Whisk 2 tablespoons cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water until smooth.
- Stir it into the slow cooker during the last 20 to 30 minutes on High.
- Let it bubble lightly with the lid cracked so steam can escape and the sauce can tighten.
Gravy-Style Thickening
If you like a richer, glossy finish, mix 2 tablespoons flour with 2 tablespoons butter until it forms a paste. Stir this into the hot liquid near the end and cook another 20 minutes. It melts right in and gives a classic beef gravy vibe. You can also whisk in a packet of beef gravy mix if you’re in a rush, just watch the salt.
Quick Fix if Sauce Is Thin
Lift the lid and let the slow cooker run on High for 20 to 30 minutes. More steam escapes, less liquid stays, and your sauce thickens naturally. Another trick is smashing a few of the cooked mushrooms and onions to add body. It sounds odd, but it works like a charm.
By the way, if you love other slow cooker comfort meals, you might like this too: slow cooker beef ragu. It’s got that same rich depth and pairs beautifully with noodles.
Tip: Always taste after thickening. Add a splash of beef broth if it gets too thick, and finish with a knob of butter for shine.
“I used the cornstarch method you recommended and my sauce turned out beautifully thick without being gloopy. My family asked for seconds. This is our new Sunday favorite.”
4 Common Mistakes When Making Slow Cooker Beef Tips
Beef tips are forgiving, but a few simple tweaks make a big difference. Avoid these pitfalls and you’ll get tender beef and a full-flavored gravy every time.
- Using lean cuts. Lean stew meat can turn out dry. Choose chuck roast or sirloin tips, cut into chunks. They get tender and flavorful over low heat.
- Skipping the sear. Browning the beef in a hot skillet with a bit of oil adds a ton of flavor. It’s optional, but those browned bits are gold for the gravy.
- Cooking noodles in the crockpot. Don’t do it. Noodles soak up too much liquid and get mushy. Cook them separately and toss with butter, then spoon the beef and gravy over top.
- Not enough time. If your beef isn’t tender, it likely needs more time. Low for 7 to 8 hours or High for 3 to 4 usually does it. Older slow cookers may need longer.
Worried about seasoning? Start with less salt, then adjust at the end. If you use broth, gravy mix, or Worcestershire sauce, the salt can sneak up on you. Also, mushrooms, onions, and a little garlic boost the savory flavor without extra salt.
Craving more slow cooker sandwich vibes? Try this juicy classic: crockpot french dip sandwich. It’s a crowd-pleaser and great for game day.
Make Ahead and Storage
Life gets busy, and crockpot beef tips noodles is a perfect make-ahead meal. Here’s how to prep and store it so it tastes amazing the next day.
Make ahead: Add beef, onions, mushrooms, broth, and seasonings to the slow cooker insert the night before. Cover and refrigerate. In the morning, set it in the base and start cooking. If your slow cooker insert isn’t fridge safe, use a bowl and pour it in the next day.
Storage: Leftover crockpot beef tips noodles keep well in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Store the beef and gravy in one container and the noodles in another so they don’t get soggy. For the freezer, pack the beef and gravy only for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth. Cook fresh noodles to serve.
Reheating: Warm gently over low heat until hot and tender. If the sauce gets too thick, stir in a spoonful of water or broth. If it’s too thin, thicken with a quick cornstarch slurry again.
PS: If cleanup stresses you out, here’s a helpful corner on the site for making kitchen chores easier: cleaning tips. Liner or no liner, a good soak makes the slow cooker a breeze to clean.
Other Ways to Serve the Beef in this Recipe
Yes, noodles are classic, but this beef and gravy is flexible. If you want to switch it up, try one of these easy ideas. Serve over fluffy mashed potatoes for a stick-to-your-ribs dinner. Spoon it over steamed rice for a simple, comforting bowl. Ladle it onto creamy polenta or cauliflower mash for something a little special. Pile it onto toasted hoagie rolls with melty provolone and you’ve got a rich, cozy hot sandwich. You can even toss it with buttered egg noodles and a handful of peas for color and sweetness.
If you’re into noodle dinners, check out this buttery, garlicky favorite for another night: one pan steak bites cheesy garlic butter noodles. It’s a fast skillet fix when you need dinner now.
Flavor boosters: Finish with a splash of balsamic, a squeeze of lemon, or a sprinkle of fresh parsley. A little brightness balances the rich gravy so the meal doesn’t feel heavy.
Beef Tips Slow Cooker Recipe Side Dishes
Round out your plate with easy sides that play nicely with the rich gravy. I like to keep it simple and colorful.
Try a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted green beans or broccoli add texture and a little char. Buttery dinner rolls or garlic bread are perfect for sopping up every last bit of gravy. Sautéed mushrooms and onions are a natural match if you want to double down on the savory flavors. Steamed peas or sweet corn bring a pop of sweetness that kids usually love. If you want a starch swap, go with buttered rice or mashed potatoes instead of noodles for a change of pace.
If you prefer a weeknight win from the freezer, you might also enjoy this comfort classic: crockpot tatertot casserole. Different vibe, same cozy factor.
Common Questions
What cut of beef works best?
Chuck roast is my top pick because it’s marbled and turns tender after slow cooking. Sirloin tips also work well. Avoid super lean cuts.
Can I cook the noodles in the slow cooker?
I don’t recommend it. They get mushy and soak up the gravy. Cook them separately, toss with butter, then spoon the beef and gravy over.
How do I keep the gravy from tasting bland?
Layer the flavor. Sear the beef, add onions, garlic, and mushrooms, use good beef broth, and don’t forget salt and pepper at the end. A dash of Worcestershire or soy sauce also helps.
How long should I cook it?
Low for 7 to 8 hours or High for 3 to 4, until the beef is fork tender. If it’s tough, it needs more time.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes. Use cornstarch to thicken and serve over gluten-free noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes. Always check labels on broth and sauces.
Let’s Get You to a Cozy Bowl
You’ve got everything you need to turn simple ingredients into a warm, satisfying dinner. From thickening the gravy to avoiding the common slip-ups, this guide keeps it simple so you can focus on the best part: serving a big bowl of comfort. If you want to compare techniques or get even more ideas, this classic approach is worth a peek: Slow-Cooker Beef Tips and Noodles Recipe – Food.com. I also love the practical tips shared here for another take on timing and textures: Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles – Southern Bite. If you love crockpot beef tips noodles and try this version, leave a comment and tell me how it went. Your kitchen is about to smell amazing.
Crockpot Beef Tips Noodles
Ingredients
Method
- Add the beef, onions, mushrooms, beef broth, soy sauce, and minced garlic to the slow cooker.
- Cover and refrigerate if preparing the night before, then set it in the slow cooker base in the morning.
- Cook on Low for 7 to 8 hours or High for 3 to 4 hours until the beef is fork-tender.
- During the last 20-30 minutes, mix the cornstarch with cold water and stir into the slow cooker.
- Cover and let the gravy thicken.
- Cook egg noodles separately according to package instructions.
- Toss cooked noodles with butter, then serve topped with the beef and gravy.
