Slow Cooker 3-Packet Beef Tips with Garlic Butter Gravy

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation time: 10–15 minutes

• Cooking time: 6–8 hours on LOW

• High setting: 3–4 hours

• Total time: Approximately 7 hours

• Servings: 6

• Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

Main ingredients

• 2½–3 lbs (1.1–1.4 kg) beef stew meat or chuck roast, cubed

• 2 cups beef broth

• ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter

• 1 packet au jus gravy mix (approximately 1 oz)

• 1 packet dry onion soup mix (approximately 1 oz)

• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (approximately 1 oz)

Optional ingredients

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 medium onion, sliced

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (for thickening)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

1. Remove the beef from its packaging.

2. Pat the beef dry with paper towels.

3. Cut into evenly sized 1½-inch cubes.

4. Trim excess fat if necessary.

5. Set aside.

Chuck roast is an excellent choice because it becomes tender and flavorful during slow cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker

1. Place the beef cubes inside the slow cooker.

2. Spread them into an even layer.

3. Add sliced onion if desired.

4. Sprinkle minced garlic over the beef.

Step 3: Add the Seasoning Packets

In a small mixing bowl, combine:

• Au jus gravy mix

• Onion soup mix

• Ranch seasoning mix

• Black pepper

Mix thoroughly until evenly combined.

Step 4: Season the Beef

1. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the beef.

2. Toss gently to coat the meat.

3. Add Worcestershire sauce if desired.

4. Make sure the seasoning is distributed throughout.

Step 5: Add Beef Broth

1. Slowly pour the beef broth over the seasoned beef.

2. Stir gently.

3. Make sure the liquid reaches the bottom of the slow cooker.

4. Avoid adding excessive liquid because the beef will release additional juices.

Step 6: Add Butter

1. Cut the butter into several pieces.

2. Place the butter pieces evenly over the beef.

3. Spread them across the top.

4. Do not stir excessively.

The butter melts during cooking and combines with the broth and seasonings to create a delicious gravy.

Step 7: Slow Cook

1. Cover the slow cooker with its lid.

2. Cook on LOW for 6–8 hours.

3. Alternatively, cook on HIGH for 3–4 hours.

4. Check that the beef is fork-tender.

5. Stir gently before serving.

Cooking time varies depending on the cut and size of the beef pieces. For tender chuck beef, LOW cooking is recommended.

Step 8: Thicken the Gravy (Optional)

1. Remove the cooked beef temporarily.

2. Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water.

3. Stir the mixture into the slow cooker liquid.

4. Cook on HIGH for another 10–15 minutes until thickened.

5. Return the beef to the gravy.

6. Stir gently.

Step 9: Serve

1. Taste the gravy and adjust seasoning if needed.

2. Spoon the beef tips into serving bowls.

3. Pour plenty of rich gravy over the beef.

4. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

5. Serve hot.

Nutritional Information

Estimated per serving, based on 6 servings. Values vary by beef cut and seasoning brand.

Nut Information (Q/S)

Allergy information: This recipe does not intentionally contain nuts. Check the ingredient labels on all three seasoning packets, broth, and butter for allergen statements and possible cross-contact.

Helpful Cooking Tips

1. Choose chuck roast: It becomes beautifully tender after slow cooking.

2. Brown the beef: For deeper flavor, sear the beef cubes in a hot skillet before adding them to the Crock-Pot.

3. Use LOW heat: Slow cooking helps develop a richer flavor and tender texture.

4. Control the salt: The seasoning packets already contain sodium, so avoid adding extra salt until tasting.

5. Make extra gravy: Increase the broth slightly if you want more gravy for mashed potatoes.

6. Add mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms make a delicious addition.

7. Avoid lifting the lid: Keeping the lid closed helps maintain a consistent cooking temperature.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.

• Freezer: Freeze in airtight portions for up to 3 months.

• Reheating: Warm gently in a saucepan with a little beef broth.

• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

What to Serve With Beef Tips

• Creamy mashed potatoes

• Buttered egg noodles

• Steamed white rice

• Roasted carrots

• Green beans

• Garlic bread

• Buttered corn

Final Result

Imagine tender, juicy beef chunks surrounded by a thick, glossy brown gravy made with savory ranch seasoning, onion soup mix, and rich au jus flavor.

The beef practically falls apart with a fork, and the buttery gravy makes every bite delicious!

A simple, hearty, family-friendly Crock-Pot dinner with incredible flavor!