Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy Delight

If you are craving a warm and hearty meal that melts in your mouth and tickles your taste buds, Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy is the perfect dish to try. This recipe captures tender, succulent beef smothered in a rich and creamy mushroom gravy made with plant-based ingredients that elevate every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, this comforting dish brings a blend of savory mushrooms and smooth, flavorful gravy that promises to be a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Comfort: Slow cooking allows the beef to become tender without constant supervision, making meal prep easy.
• Rich Mushroom Flavor: The mushroom gravy adds deep umami notes that enhance the taste of every bite.
• Creamy and Plant-based: The sauce uses a creamy plant-based base for a luscious texture that everyone can enjoy.
• Versatile Serving: Great as a main dish served over rice, mashed potatoes, or noodles, making it perfect for any meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This recipe stores well and tastes even better the next day, ideal for busy weeks.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These straightforward ingredients are essential to build the delicious flavors and textures of your Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy. Each plays a role in ensuring the sauce is rich, the beef is tender, and the dish looks as appetizing as it tastes.

• Beef Tips: Choose quality stew meat or chuck, which becomes tender and juicy when slow cooked.
• Fresh Mushrooms: Button or cremini mushrooms add earthiness and body to the gravy.
• Onions and Garlic: Aromatics that infuse the dish with deep, savory notes.
• Vegetarian Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a tangy, slightly sweet depth to the gravy (natural).
• Vegetable Broth: Provides the flavorful liquid base for the gravy without overpowering the meat.
• Plant-based Cream (plant-based): Creates a velvety and smooth gravy that clings perfectly to the beef tips.
• Flour or Cornstarch: Used as a natural thickener for the gravy.
• Herbs: Fresh thyme or parsley adds a burst of freshness and color.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors together.
• Olive Oil: For browning the beef and sautéing mushrooms, adding richness.

Variations for Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy

This comforting dish is easy to customize to fit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Feel free to experiment with these ideas to make it your own.

• Vegetable Boost: Add chopped carrots, celery, or bell peppers for extra nutrients and color.
• Protein Swap: Substitute beef tips with diced smoked turkey for a lighter protein option.
• Herb Enhancements: Incorporate rosemary or sage for a more aromatic gravy.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use cornstarch or arrowroot powder as a natural thickener instead of flour.
• Mushroom Mix: Combine shiitake, portobello, and button mushrooms for an intensified mushroom flavor.

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy

Step 1: Sear the Beef

Begin by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the beef tips in batches to develop rich flavor and caramelization on the outside. Set them aside once nicely browned.

Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms and Aromatics

In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil and sauté the sliced mushrooms, onions, and garlic until softened and fragrant. This step builds the base flavor for the gravy.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Transfer the seared beef and sautéed vegetables to your slow cooker. Pour in vegetable broth, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), and a splash of apple cider vinegar to enhance the sauce’s depth. Add fresh thyme for aroma.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 5: Thicken the Gravy

Mix plant-based cream (plant-based) with flour or cornstarch and stir it into the slow cooker, letting it cook uncovered for another 15-20 minutes to thicken to a luscious gravy consistency.

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy

• Brown the Beef Thoroughly: This step adds deeper flavor and helps lock in juices.
• Use Fresh Mushrooms: They provide better texture and a richer earthy flavor than canned options.
• Avoid Overcrowding When Searing: Work in batches for even browning.
• Season in Layers: Salt and pepper the beef before searing and adjust seasoning at the end.
• Thicken at the End: Adding the natural gelling agent mixture late ensures a perfect gravy without lumps.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy

Garnishes

Finish this dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or thyme leaves for a pop of color and fresh herbal notes that brighten the plate.

Side Dishes

Serve the beef tips over creamy mashed potatoes (plant-based), fluffy rice, or buttered egg-free noodles to soak up every drop of that luscious mushroom gravy.

Creative Ways to Present

For a delightful presentation, layer the beef tips on toasted whole grain bread for a savory open-faced sandwich or stuff into soft pita pockets with fresh greens and pickled vegetables.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place cooled Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days, ensuring leftovers stay flavorful and tender.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to restore the creamy texture and prevent the gravy from separating.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?

Absolutely! Cuts like chuck roast or sirloin, cut into bite-sized pieces, work well as they become tender during slow cooking.

Is it possible to make this recipe in the oven?

Yes, you can bake this dish in a covered Dutch oven at 300°F (150°C) for 2.5 to 3 hours until the beef is tender.

How thick should the mushroom gravy be?

It should be rich enough to coat the back of a spoon but still pourable for easy serving.

Can I omit the plant-based cream (plant-based)?

While it adds a wonderful creaminess, you can skip it for a lighter sauce or substitute with coconut cream for a different twist.

What can I serve instead of mashed potatoes?

Rice, egg-free noodles, or even roasted root vegetables are fantastic alternatives that complement the beef and gravy beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy is one of those soul-satisfying meals that everyone deserves to enjoy. The effortless slow cooking process combined with a rich, creamy mushroom sauce makes it a perfect dinner any day of the week. I encourage you to try this recipe, customize it to your liking, and savor every comforting bite!

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