Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Potatoes and Mushrooms

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 7–8 hours on LOW or 4–5 hours on HIGH

• Total Time: Approximately 8 hours

• Servings: 6

• Difficulty: Easy

• Cooking Method: Slow cooker

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2 lbs (900 g) beef stew meat, cut into cubes

• 1½ lbs (680 g) potatoes, peeled and diced

• 8 oz (225 g) mushrooms, sliced

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 cups beef broth

Seasonings and Flavorings

• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for browning)

For Thickening the Gravy

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

• 3 tablespoons cold water

Garnish

– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

1. Pat the beef cubes dry using paper towels.

2. Trim away excess fat.

3. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.

4. For extra flavor, heat olive oil in a skillet.

5. Brown the beef on all sides for approximately 2–3 minutes per side.

Tip: Browning is optional, but it creates a deeper, richer flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Wash and peel the potatoes.

2. Cut them into medium-sized cubes.

3. Clean the mushrooms and slice them.

4. Peel and finely chop the onion.

5. Mince the garlic cloves.

Step 3: Assemble the Slow Cooker

1. Place the diced potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker.

2. Add the chopped onion.

3. Add the sliced mushrooms.

4. Arrange the seasoned beef cubes on top.

5. Sprinkle minced garlic over everything.

Step 4: Prepare the Broth Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine:

• 2 cups beef broth

• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• Remaining black pepper and Italian seasoning

Whisk until combined.

Step 5: Add the Broth

1. Pour the broth mixture evenly over the beef and vegetables.

2. Gently stir to distribute the liquid.

3. Cover the slow cooker with its lid.

Step 6: Slow Cook

Cook according to your preferred setting:

• LOW: 7–8 hours

• HIGH: 4–5 hours

Cook until the beef is fork-tender and the potatoes are soft but still hold their shape.

For food safety, ensure the beef reaches a safe internal temperature; tenderness in stew generally develops with longer cooking.

Step 7: Thicken the Gravy

1. Mix 2 tablespoons cornstarch with 3 tablespoons cold water.

2. Stir until smooth.

3. Pour the mixture into the slow cooker.

4. Stir gently.

5. Cover and cook on HIGH for another 15–20 minutes until the gravy thickens.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

1. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper.

2. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the beef.

3. Spoon into serving bowls.

4. Serve warm with the delicious mushroom gravy.

Nutrition Information (Q/S)

Estimated per serving, based on 6 servings.

Nut Information (Q/S)

This recipe does not require nuts or nut-based ingredients.

Allergy note: Check the ingredient labels on Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, broth, and seasonings for potential allergen cross-contact.

Helpful Cooking Tips

1. Choose chuck roast or beef stew meat for tender results.

2. Cut potatoes into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.

3. Brown the beef before slow cooking for richer flavor.

4. Avoid adding too much liquid because mushrooms release moisture.

5. Add cornstarch slurry near the end rather than at the beginning.

6. Do not lift the slow cooker lid repeatedly, as this releases heat.

7. Use baby potatoes if you prefer a rustic presentation.

Storage Instructions

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

• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2–3 months.

• Reheating: Reheat thoroughly on the stovetop or in the microwave.

• Add a little beef broth if the gravy becomes too thick.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this delicious beef dinner with:

• Garlic bread

• Steamed green beans

• Fresh garden salad

• Dinner rolls

• Roasted broccoli

• Mashed potatoes

Final Result: Tender, juicy beef bites, soft potatoes, flavorful mushrooms, and a rich homemade brown gravy. A comforting, satisfying slow cooker dinner perfect for family meals!