There’s something magical about a dish that fills your home with the irresistible aroma of slow-cooked goodness. When the weather starts to cool down or life feels a little too fast-paced, nothing hits the spot quite like a warm, comforting bowl of Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles. This dish has all the hallmarks of a home-cooked classic—tender chunks of beef, a rich and creamy sauce, and a bed of hearty egg noodles to soak up all the flavor.
This recipe is inspired by my grandmother’s Sunday dinners, where the entire family would gather around the table, savoring every bite and every story shared. It’s the kind of meal that turns a regular evening into something special. Whether you’re planning a relaxed weeknight dinner or prepping a no-fuss meal for guests, this dish delivers comfort, flavor, and ease—making it a must-try for any home cook.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re new to the world of slow cooking or you’re a seasoned crockpot enthusiast, this recipe checks all the right boxes. Here’s why this Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles dish belongs in your recipe rotation:
- Set-it-and-forget-it convenience: Minimal prep and maximum reward.
- Hearty and satisfying: Perfect for feeding a hungry family or storing for leftovers.
- Budget-friendly: Uses affordable ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
- Packed with flavor: Creamy, savory, and melt-in-your-mouth tender.
Whether you’re feeding a family of five or cooking solo with leftovers in mind, this dish is both adaptable and foolproof.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need to make this recipe. Most of these ingredients are pantry staples, so you won’t have to make a special trip to the store.
Main Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into small chunks
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.75 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 packet dry onion soup mix
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked egg noodles, for serving
Pro Tip: You can substitute beef stew meat with chuck roast or even sirloin tips if you want to elevate the tenderness and flavor.
How to Make Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles
This recipe is a perfect example of “dump and go” cooking, meaning you just combine the ingredients, let the slow cooker do its thing, and return to a perfectly prepared meal.
Step 1: Load the Crockpot
Start by adding your beef stew meat, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the bottom of the slow cooker. Spread them evenly for a consistent cook.
Step 2: Mix the Saucy Base
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, dry onion soup mix, and beef broth. Stir until well blended, then pour this mixture over the beef in the crockpot.
Step 3: Let It Simmer
Set your slow cooker to low heat and cook for 7 to 8 hours. The beef will become beautifully tender, absorbing all the savory flavors of the broth and soup mix.
Step 4: Add the Creamy Touch
In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the sour cream, then season with salt and pepper to taste. This gives the dish its signature creaminess and rich texture.
Step 5: Serve Over Egg Noodles
Prepare your egg noodles according to the package instructions. Once ready, ladle the beef and gravy over a generous serving of noodles, and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
This dish is delightfully filling on its own, but if you’re looking to round out your meal, here are a few delicious sides to consider:
- Steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts for a touch of green.
- Garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls to mop up the sauce.
- A crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness.
For drinks, consider pairing with a robust red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or a cold amber ale for a heartier pairing.
Storage & Reheating Tips
One of the best parts of this dish is how well it stores and reheats. Here’s how to handle leftovers (if you have any!):
Refrigerator:
Place leftovers in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezer:
Let the beef mixture cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. It’ll keep well for up to 3 months.
Reheating:
For best results, reheat on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or milk to keep the sauce smooth. You can also reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Note: Freeze the beef tips separate from the noodles to prevent them from getting mushy when thawed.
Tips for Recipe Success
To ensure your Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles come out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
✅ Use a marbled cut of meat:
Fat equals flavor. Cuts like chuck roast or stew meat with some fat marbling cook down beautifully in a slow cooker.
✅ Don’t skip the sour cream:
It balances the salty and savory notes, giving the dish a luscious, velvety finish.
✅ Add mushrooms for texture:
If you’re a mushroom fan, toss in a cup of sliced mushrooms with the beef for added depth.
✅ Use wide egg noodles:
They hold up better under the rich sauce and have that satisfying bite.
Make It Your Own: Recipe Variations
Want to switch things up? Here are a few fun and delicious ways to customize your dish:
🌶️ Spicy Kick:
Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
🍄 Extra Umami:
Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce or a tablespoon of soy sauce for more depth.
🧀 Cheesy Delight:
Stir in ½ cup of shredded cheddar or parmesan during the last 10 minutes for a cheesy twist.
🥦 Veggie-Packed:
Throw in peas, carrots, or even spinach for a nutritional boost.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes! Full-fat Greek yogurt is a great substitute and adds a slightly tangy twist while maintaining creaminess.
Can I cook this on high?
You can, but it’s not recommended. Cooking on high for 4 hours may work, but low and slow (7–8 hours) guarantees the most tender beef.
What type of beef should I use?
Stew meat is the most convenient, but chuck roast, bottom round, or sirloin tips also work well.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use a gluten-free soup mix and gluten-free egg noodles or serve it over mashed potatoes or rice.