I wasn’t planning to slow cook anything that day. It had been a morning of errands, emails, and that kind of low-grade chaos that makes you crave comfort. But as I passed the kitchen, the thought of tender beef tips, rich gravy, and buttery egg noodles hit me like a memory. The kind of meal that makes the whole house smell like someone’s been taking care of you all day.
So, I pulled out the crockpot, seared some beef, and let the magic happen. By evening, the house was warm and fragrant, and dinner practically melted on the fork.
This Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles recipe is the very definition of comfort food—rich, hearty, and soul-soothing. Whether you’re feeding a family or stocking your fridge with leftovers that only get better with time, this one’s a keeper.
What Makes This Recipe So Comforting?
It’s the way the beef slow-cooks all day, turning tender enough to fall apart with a spoon. The savory gravy soaks into every crevice of the noodles, and when it all comes together, it’s the kind of meal that feels like home. Bonus: it takes just 10–15 minutes of hands-on prep. The slow cooker does the rest.
Key Ingredients
For the Beef Tips:
- 2 pounds beef stew meat or sirloin tips
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt & pepper, to taste
For the Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
For Serving:
- 12 oz egg noodles, cooked according to package directions
- Fresh parsley (optional), for garnish
Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet (for searing)
- Crockpot / slow cooker
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or fork
- Large pot (for noodles)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Beef (Optional but Recommended)
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add beef tips and sear just until browned on all sides. Don’t cook through—you just want a bit of color for flavor.
Step 2: Add Ingredients to Crockpot
Transfer the beef to the crockpot. Add diced onion, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine.
Step 3: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours, until the beef is melt-in-your-mouth tender.
Step 4: Thicken the Gravy
In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and cold water to make a slurry. Stir it into the crockpot and cook on high for an additional 20–30 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
Step 5: Cook the Noodles
While the gravy thickens, cook the egg noodles according to package directions. Drain and toss with a little butter, if you’d like.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Spoon the beef and rich gravy over a bed of warm noodles. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Minimal prep – Let the crockpot do the heavy lifting.
- Incredibly tender beef – No knife needed.
- Rich, savory gravy – Deep flavor from slow cooking and seasoning.
- Total comfort – A meal that feels like a warm hug.
- Perfect leftovers – Even better the next day.
Mistakes to Avoid
1. Skipping the sear
While optional, browning the beef adds depth of flavor that’s worth the extra step.
2. Using low-sodium broth without adjusting salt
Make sure to taste and season as needed—especially if using a low-sodium option.
3. Adding cornstarch too early
Wait until the end to thicken, or it may break down during the long cook time.
4. Overcooking the noodles
Cook the noodles right before serving for the best texture.
Serving & Pairing Ideas
- Serve with buttered green beans or roasted carrots on the side.
- Add a dollop of sour cream for extra richness.
- Pair with a crusty loaf of bread to soak up the gravy.
- A glass of red wine makes it extra cozy for date night.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze beef and gravy separately (noodles don’t freeze well) for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Gently reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes—sirloin, chuck roast, or stew meat all work well.
Can I skip the noodles?
Absolutely. Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or even cauliflower mash.
What if I don’t have cornstarch?
Use flour mixed with water instead, or a store-bought gravy packet in a pinch.
Can I cook this overnight?
You can, but make sure your crockpot switches to “warm” after the cook time to avoid overcooking.
Recipe Variations
- Mushroom Beef Tips: Add a can of sliced mushrooms or fresh mushrooms with the onions.
- Creamy Version: Stir in ¼ cup sour cream or cream cheese at the end for a rich, creamy gravy.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
- Herb Upgrade: Swap thyme for rosemary or add a bay leaf during cooking.
Final Thoughts
There’s something deeply satisfying about this Crockpot Beef Tips & Noodles recipe. It’s easy, hearty, and filled with flavor—and it turns a handful of basic ingredients into a meal that feels like a warm memory.
Whether it’s a chilly evening or just one of those days when you want dinner to cook itself, this one’s a go-to. It feeds the belly and the soul.
So go ahead—dust off that slow cooker. You’ve got dinner handled.