Creamy Crockpot Beef Tips Over Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs stew meat
- 1 packet Au Jus Gravy mix
- 1 packet Lipton Onion Soup mix
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Mashed potatoes, for serving
Instructions:
- Prepare the Crockpot: Place the stew meat in the crockpot.
- Season the Meat: In a small bowl, mix together the Au Jus Gravy mix, Lipton Onion Soup mix, and ranch seasoning mix. Sprinkle this seasoning mixture over the meat in the crockpot.
- Add Butter and Liquid: Place the stick of butter on top of the seasoned meat. Pour in the beef broth to provide moisture and enhance the flavor.
- Cook on Low: Cover the crockpot and cook on Low for 4-6 hours. The stew meat will become tender as it cooks slowly in the flavorful mixture.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: About 30 minutes before serving, in a small saucepan, melt a tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to create a roux. Slowly whisk in the heavy cream until the mixture thickens. Pour this creamy mixture into the crockpot and gently stir to combine. Let it cook for an additional 15-20 minutes in the crockpot to allow the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Prepare Mashed Potatoes: While the beef tips are finishing in the crockpot, prepare your favorite mashed potatoes according to your preferred recipe.
- Serve: Serve the creamy beef tips over a generous portion of mashed potatoes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. The rich, creamy sauce and tender beef tips are the perfect accompaniment to the fluffy mashed potatoes.
Enjoy your comforting and hearty meal of creamy crockpot beef tips over mashed potatoes!
Q1: Can I use a different cut of meat for this recipe? A1: While stew meat is traditionally used for this dish, you can experiment with other cuts like chuck roast or sirloin, cut into bite-sized pieces. Just ensure the meat is well-marbled and suitable for slow cooking to achieve tenderness.
Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A2: Yes, you can prepare the seasoning mixture and cut the meat in advance. When you’re ready to cook, simply assemble the ingredients in the crockpot and cook according to the recipe instructions. The creamy sauce can also be made ahead and reheated before serving.
Q3: Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd? A3: Absolutely! You can double or even triple the ingredients to accommodate a larger group. Make sure to use a larger crockpot or divide the ingredients between multiple crockpots if needed.
Q4: How can I make the dish less rich if I prefer a lighter version? A4: To make the dish lighter, you can reduce the amount of butter and heavy cream used. Alternatively, you can use low-fat or skim versions of the dairy products without compromising too much on flavor.
Q5: Can I freeze the leftovers? A5: Yes, you can freeze the leftover beef tips and gravy in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little broth or cream to maintain the desired consistency.
Q6: What are some good side dishes to serve with this dish besides mashed potatoes? A6: This dish pairs well with a variety of sides such as steamed vegetables, rice, egg noodles, or crusty bread. A fresh green salad or roasted vegetables can also complement the richness of the beef tips.
Q7: Can I add vegetables to the crockpot with the beef tips? A7: Yes, you can add vegetables like carrots, mushrooms, or pearl onions to the crockpot for a complete one-pot meal. Add them along with the meat, and they will cook in the flavorful sauce, absorbing the delicious flavors.
Q8: How long can I keep the leftovers in the refrigerator? A8: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Make sure to reheat them thoroughly before serving.
Enjoy your cooking! If you have any more questions, feel free to ask.
