Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly season the beef with salt and pepper and sear each piece until browned on all sides. Browning adds a depth of flavor that elevates the final dish. Once browned, transfer the beef to your slow cooker.
2. Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant and translucent. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and begin to brown. Transfer this mixture to the slow cooker.
3. Build the Sauce
Combine beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and thyme in a small bowl. Pour over the beef and mushrooms in the slow cooker, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
4. Slow Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the beef is tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
5. Finish with Creaminess
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the sour cream. For a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with a little water and add it now. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
6. Serve and Garnish
Spoon the beef tips over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles, and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of this classic dish!
Tips for the Perfect Beef Tips
Meat Choice Matters: Chuck roast or stew meat works best due to their marbling and connective tissue, which tenderizes beautifully.
Don’t Skip Browning: Searing the beef develops deeper flavor, even though it adds a step before slow cooking.
Mushroom Variety: Experiment with cremini, portobello, or even shiitake for a more complex mushroom flavor.
Make Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.
Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker Mushroom Beef Tips are the ultimate comfort food: minimal prep, maximum flavor, and a rich, creamy sauce that warms the soul. Perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekends, it’s a dish that will quickly become a household favorite. Pair it with hearty sides, pour yourself a glass of red wine, and let the slow cooker do the work while you enjoy the aroma of home-cooked goodness.
