If you’ve been searching for a hearty, soul-warming dinner that feels like a big hug in a bowl, then the Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Buttery Egg Noodles Recipe is exactly what you need. Tender beef stew meat simmers slowly until melt-in-your-mouth soft, enveloped in a rich, savory sauce that perfectly coats every bite. Paired with golden egg noodles tossed in creamy butter, this dish combines simple, comforting ingredients into a meal that never fails to satisfy and impress. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe brings warmth and flavor that feels just like home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is easy and essential for creating the kind of depth and harmony this Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Buttery Egg Noodles Recipe is known for. Each component plays a clear role, from the tender beef that’s the star of the dish to the aromatics that build the foundational flavor.
- 1 lb beef stew meat or sirloin tips: The foundation—cut into bite-sized pieces for perfect tenderness.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For searing the beef, providing a beautiful crust and rich flavor base.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds both sweetness and texture as it softens.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives that irresistible aromatic punch that flavors everything.
- 1 cup beef broth: The savory liquid that keeps the beef moist and simmers into a luscious sauce.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: A depth booster that brings umami complexity.
- 1 tsp dried thyme: Earthy herb notes that balance the richness perfectly.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: To enhance and brighten all flavors.
- 8 oz egg noodles: The buttery, tender base that holds the beef and sauce just right.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter: Tossed with the noodles for that velvety finish and gorgeous shine.
- Salt, to taste: To season the noodles and bring everything to life.
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Buttery Egg Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Tips
Start this comforting journey by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized beef pieces and sear them until every side is beautifully browned; this step locks in flavor and juices that make all the difference. Once browned, take the beef off the heat and set it aside. This quick sear gives you that scrumptious caramelized depth that transforms this dish from good to unforgettable.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Using the same skillet, toss in the chopped onion and cook it until translucent — about three minutes. This softens the onion and brings out its natural sweetness. Then, add the minced garlic and let it cook for an extra 30 seconds until that wonderful garlic aroma fills the kitchen. These aromatics create the savory backbone that carries the dish.
Step 3: Simmer the Beef
Return the seared beef to the skillet, then pour in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Sprinkle in the dried thyme along with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring everything to a gentle boil before reducing the heat to low and covering the skillet. Let it simmer gently for one to one and a half hours, which tenderizes the beef and thickens the sauce into the perfect velvety consistency that coats the beef and noodles alike.
Step 4: Prepare the Noodles
While the beef is simmering away, cook the egg noodles according to the package directions. Once drained, return the noodles to their pot and immediately stir in unsalted butter, letting it melt and coat all the noodles with a luscious buttery sheen. Season with salt to taste, adding a little extra love to this classic pairing.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
To serve, pile a warm bed of buttery egg noodles on each plate and generously ladle the tender beef tips and rich sauce over the top. You can garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if you want an added pop of color and herbaceous flavor. This final step brings together the textures and flavors beautifully, making the Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Buttery Egg Noodles Recipe a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Buttery Egg Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or thyme is a simple yet elegant touch. These fresh herbs not only add a lively color burst but also give a subtle brightness that balances the richness of the beef and buttered noodles.
Side Dishes
Consider a crisp green salad or steamed seasonal vegetables like green beans or broccoli. Their freshness contrasts perfectly with the hearty beef and creamy noodles, rounding out the meal with both texture and nutrition.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve the beef tips on individual plates with a neat nest of buttery noodles and a drizzle of the reduced sauce. Alternatively, scoop all components into a rustic bowl and offer crusty bread on the side to soak up every last drop of sauce. Either way, presentation is about comforting elegance that invites everyone to dig in happily.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your feast, let any leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, they’ll stay good for up to four days. The beef will actually gain more flavor after resting a bit in the sauce.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Buttery Egg Noodles Recipe freezes beautifully. Freeze the beef tips and sauce separately from the noodles in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. This way, texture and flavor stay intact after thawing.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the beef tips and sauce over low heat on the stove or in the microwave until piping hot. Reheat the noodles separately to avoid them drying out, adding a splash of water or butter if necessary. Combine just before serving to enjoy that fresh-from-the-kitchen taste again.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! Sirloin tips or chuck steak cut into bite-sized pieces both work wonderfully. Just make sure to sear the meat first to develop those lovely flavors before simmering.
Is it possible to cook this recipe entirely in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can skip the skillet step by placing all ingredients into the slow cooker and cooking on low for 6-8 hours. However, searing the beef beforehand enhances the flavor and texture beautifully, so it’s worth the extra step if you can.
What type of egg noodles is best for this dish?
Wide egg noodles hold the sauce well and have a nice, tender texture when cooked. Fresh egg noodles are ideal if available, but dried ones work just fine too when cooked al dente.
Can I make the noodles ahead of time?
You can cook the noodles in advance, but be sure to toss them with a little butter or oil to keep them from sticking. Reheat them gently with a splash of broth or butter before serving.
How can I adjust the sauce thickness?
If the sauce is too thin, simply simmer it uncovered for a few extra minutes to let it reduce and thicken. Conversely, add a small amount of broth if it gets too thick for your liking.
Final Thoughts
There’s something genuinely special about a meal that’s easy to prepare yet offers layers of comfort and flavor, and the Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Buttery Egg Noodles Recipe fits that bill perfectly. Whether you’re feeding family or treating yourself after a long day, this dish will wrap you in warmth and satisfaction. So grab those simple ingredients, embrace the slow simmer, and dive into a plateful of pure, buttery bliss.
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Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Buttery Egg Noodles Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A hearty and comforting slow-simmered beef stew featuring tender beef tips in a flavorful beef broth with onions, garlic, and herbs, served over buttery egg noodles. This warming dish is perfect for a satisfying family meal.
Ingredients
Beef and Broth
- 1 lb beef stew meat or sirloin tips, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Noodles
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef Tips: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef pieces and sear until they are browned on all sides. Once browned, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Using the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Simmer the Beef: Return the seared beef to the skillet. Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Add the dried thyme, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer gently for 1 to 1.5 hours until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Prepare the Noodles: While the beef simmers, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles and return them to the pot. Add the unsalted butter and toss the noodles until the butter melts and coats them evenly. Season with salt to taste.
- Serve: Place a serving of buttery noodles on each plate. Top with the savory beef tips and sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if desired for added aroma and presentation.
Notes
- For extra flavor, deglaze the skillet with a splash of beef broth after searing the beef to capture all browned bits.
- You can substitute sirloin tips with stew meat if preferred for more affordable cuts.
- The sauce can be thickened further by simmering uncovered for the last 15 minutes if desired.
- Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley make a lovely garnish but are optional.
- Ensure noodles are cooked al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy when combined with the sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
