Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Vegetables

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is the definition of comfort food made easy. With minimal prep and a long, slow cook time, the beef becomes incredibly tender while the vegetables soak up the savory flavors of the broth and seasonings. It’s a complete one-pot meal that’s family-friendly, fuss-free, and ideal for busy days when you want a delicious dinner waiting for you at the end of the day.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Beef tips or stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Potatoes, peeled and cubed
• Carrots, sliced
• Celery, chopped
• Onion, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Beef broth
• Worcestershire sauce
• Tomato paste
• Cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• Olive oil or butter
• Dried thyme
• Bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef tips for 2–3 minutes per side until browned (optional but adds great flavor).
2. Transfer the beef to the slow cooker. Add the potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the beef and vegetables.
4. Add the bay leaf, cover, and cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
5. For a thicker sauce, whisk 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
6. Remove the bay leaf, adjust seasoning if needed, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 7–8 hours (low) or 4–5 hours (high)
Total time: approximately 8 hours

Variations

• Mushroom Lover’s Version: Add sliced mushrooms for extra depth and richness.
• Herb Infusion: Mix in rosemary or oregano for a more aromatic flavor.
• Red Wine Twist: Replace ½ cup of the broth with red wine for a bolder taste.
• Creamy Style: Stir in a bit of sour cream or heavy cream at the end for a silky finish.
• Vegetarian Adaptation: Substitute beef with hearty mushrooms or a meat alternative and use vegetable broth.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce thickens too much. This dish also freezes well—store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

What kind of beef should I use for beef tips?

Beef stew meat, sirloin tips, or chuck roast cut into cubes work best for tenderness and flavor.

Can I skip searing the beef?

Yes, but searing adds an extra layer of flavor and helps seal in the juices.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely. Peas, green beans, or parsnips make great additions to this stew.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Use a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) or let the sauce simmer uncovered for a few minutes after cooking.

Can I use frozen beef?

It’s best to thaw the beef first for even cooking and food safety.

What can I serve with this dish?

Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or warm crusty bread to soak up the flavorful gravy.

Can I prepare it the night before?

Yes, assemble all ingredients in the slow cooker insert, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Start cooking the next morning.

Can I cook it on the stovetop instead?

Yes, simmer everything in a covered pot for 2–3 hours on low heat until the beef is tender.

How do I prevent the vegetables from getting mushy?

Cut them into large chunks and avoid overcooking—low heat for 7–8 hours is ideal.

Does this recipe freeze well?

Yes, it freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely before freezing and reheat slowly to maintain texture.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Vegetables is the ultimate comfort meal that delivers rich, hearty flavor with minimal effort. Tender beef, flavorful gravy, and perfectly cooked vegetables make this a dish you’ll return to again and again. It’s easy, filling, and perfect for cozy family dinners or make-ahead meals that everyone will love.

Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Vegetables

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Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Vegetables is a hearty, comforting meal made with tender beef, wholesome vegetables, and a rich, savory gravy. This easy one-pot recipe is perfect for busy days, offering melt-in-your-mouth flavor with minimal effort.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 hours
• Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooker
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef tips or stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef tips for 2–3 minutes per side until browned for added flavor.
2. Transfer the beef to the slow cooker. Add potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic.
3. In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the beef and vegetables.
4. Add the bay leaf, cover, and cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours, until the beef is tender and vegetables are cooked through.
5. For a thicker gravy, whisk cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
6. Remove the bay leaf, taste, and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

• Searing the beef before slow cooking enhances flavor but is optional.
• Add mushrooms, peas, or green beans for variation.
• Replace part of the broth with red wine for a deeper flavor.
• For a creamy version, stir in sour cream or heavy cream at the end.
• This dish freezes well—store for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
• Calories: 410
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 830mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 34g
• Cholesterol: 95mg