Creamy Crockpot Beef Tips & Mushrooms Recipe
If you are searching for a comforting meal that brings rich flavors and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness effortlessly, this Creamy Crockpot Beef Tips & Mushrooms Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender beef cubes slow-cooked to perfection, mingling with savory mushrooms and a luscious creamy sauce that wraps every bite with warmth and satisfaction. This dish is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for cozy dinners, lazy weekends, or any time you crave a hearty, soul-soothing plate without too much fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but absolutely essential, each playing a crucial role in building the depth and texture of this delightful dish. From the savory beef to the creamy base, every component works together to create the perfect balance of flavors.
- 1.5 lbs beef stew meat or beef tips: Choose well-marbled meat for the most tender and flavorful results.
- 1 onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and complexity as it cooks down slowly in the crockpot.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant base that enhances the savory profile.
- 8 oz cremini or white mushrooms, sliced: Provides earthy notes and a satisfying bite.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: Creates the creamy texture and mushroom flavor foundation.
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch dressing mix: Infuses herbs and subtle tang for an unexpected flavor boost.
- 1 packet (1 oz) brown gravy mix: Thickens the sauce and deepens the savory taste.
- 1 cup beef broth: Ensures the beef stays juicy and contributes rich stock flavor.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Adds luscious creaminess that makes the sauce silky smooth.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Rounds out the sauce with a velvety richness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that bring everything into perfect harmony.
How to Make Creamy Crockpot Beef Tips & Mushrooms Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by trimming any excess fat from your beef stew meat and cutting it into bite-sized cubes. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic, then slice your mushrooms. Getting everything ready before cooking ensures a smooth process and an even distribution of flavors in the slow cooker.
Step 2: Layer the Main Components in the Crockpot
Place your beef cubes into the slow cooker, followed by the sliced mushrooms. The mushrooms will release moisture and intensify the sauce as they cook, perfectly complementing the beef’s richness.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, ranch dressing mix, and brown gravy mix. This mixture forms the heart of the sauce with a creamy texture, herby notes, and just the right amount of gravy thickness. Stir well to combine everything evenly.
Step 4: Add the Sauce and Cook
Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and mushrooms in the crockpot. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion on top. Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 8 hours. During this time, the beef will become ultra tender, and the flavors will meld beautifully.
Step 5: Finish with Cream and Butter
Once the beef tips are tender, stir in the heavy cream and butter. This final step enriches the sauce, turning it silky and luxurious, a key highlight of this Creamy Crockpot Beef Tips & Mushrooms Recipe.
How to Serve Creamy Crockpot Beef Tips & Mushrooms Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds a lovely pop of color and freshness that perfectly balances the creamy sauce and deep beef flavor. If you enjoy a bit of zest, a light dusting of smoked paprika can bring warmth and color to your plate.
Side Dishes
This dish shines when served over fluffy mashed potatoes, buttery noodles, or steamed rice. These sides soak up the rich sauce and make each bite an indulgent experience. Roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad can lighten the meal and add texture contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy dinner party, consider serving the beef tips in individual ramekins with a side of crusty artisan bread. Or use buttery puff pastry shells as edible bowls, creating an elegant yet comforting presentation. The creamy sauce keeps well and looks inviting when garnished with herbs.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers keep wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The beef tips will develop even deeper savory flavors the next day, making it a perfect next-day meal.
Freezing
This Creamy Crockpot Beef Tips & Mushrooms Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture and taste.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally to maintain the creamy texture without breaking or curdling the sauce. Adding a splash of beef broth or cream can refresh the richness if it feels too thick.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While beef stew meat or beef tips are ideal for slow cooking due to their tenderness when cooked low and slow, you can also use chuck roast cut into cubes. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if needed until the meat is tender.
Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a lighter cream alternative and use low-sodium beef broth. You can also add more mushrooms and vegetables to increase fiber and nutrients without sacrificing flavor.
Can I prepare this recipe in an Instant Pot instead of a crockpot?
You can. Use the sauté function to brown the beef first, then add all ingredients and cook on high pressure for about 35-40 minutes. Release pressure naturally for tender results. Just remember to stir in the cream and butter at the end.
What can I use if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?
Try making your own simple mushroom sauce using sautéed mushrooms, flour, butter, and milk or broth as a base. This way, you control the ingredients and still get that creamy mushroom flavor essential to the dish.
Can I omit the ranch dressing mix?
You can skip it, though it adds a lovely herby and tangy depth. If you don’t have ranch mix, consider adding dried herbs like parsley, dill, and a pinch of onion powder as a substitute to bring complexity.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Crockpot Beef Tips & Mushrooms Recipe has quickly become a beloved favorite in my kitchen for its effortless prep, tender beef, and irresistibly creamy sauce. It’s perfect for those days when you want a warming meal waiting for you without the stress. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how simple ingredients can transform into such a satisfying feast that feels like a hug on a plate.
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Creamy Crockpot Beef Tips & Mushrooms Recipe
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Creamy Crockpot Beef Tips & Mushrooms recipe features tender beef stew meat slow-cooked with mushrooms in a rich and savory mushroom cream sauce. Enhanced with ranch and brown gravy mixes, this comforting dish is perfect for a hands-off dinner served over rice or noodles.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs beef stew meat or beef tips, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 8 oz cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mixes and Soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch dressing mix
- 1 packet (1 oz) brown gravy mix
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Cut the beef stew meat into bite-sized cubes and slice the mushrooms. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic to prepare for cooking.
- Combine in Slow Cooker: Place the beef stew meat and sliced mushrooms in the slow cooker. This will form the base of the dish.
- Make Soup Mixture: In a separate bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, ranch dressing mix, brown gravy mix, and heavy cream. Stir well to combine all the flavors into a smooth sauce.
- Add Soup Mixture to Slow Cooker: Pour the mixed soup sauce over the beef and mushrooms in the slow cooker, ensuring even coverage. Stir lightly if needed.
- Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours, allowing the beef to become tender and the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Finish and Serve: Once cooked, stir in the butter to enrich the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the creamy beef tips and mushrooms over cooked rice or noodles for a complete hearty meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, brown the beef cubes in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker.
- You can substitute sour cream for heavy cream if preferred for a tangier sauce.
- Adjust seasoning after cooking; the ranch and gravy mixes add salt, so taste before adding extra salt.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
