There’s an undeniable charm in the way a slow cooker transforms simple ingredients into a festive feast. As the day unfolds and the aroma of savory beef mingles with fragrant rosemary, I can’t help but feel a wave of warmth wash over me. This dish is more than just a meal—it’s a cozy gathering of loved ones around the table, sharing stories and laughs while savoring the rich, tender bites of beef chuck roast.
I first discovered this delightful recipe during a gathering where I wanted to impress my friends without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of red wine, garlic, and mushrooms creates an elegant, comforting dish that effortlessly elevates any dinner. Best of all, it’s perfect for busy lives; you can prep it in the morning and let it work its magic all day long.
So, if you’re yearning for a break from fast food and seeking a hearty home-cooked meal that warms the heart and pleases the palate, grab your slow cooker and let’s dive into this festive slow-cooked beef tips recipe!
Why Festive Slow-Cooked Beef Tips Shine?
Comforting Experience: This recipe transforms beef into a melt-in-your-mouth sensation, perfect for chilly evenings.
Aromatic Delight: The blend of garlic, rosemary, and red wine envelops your home in a delicious aroma, making everyone eager for dinner.
Hands-Off Cooking: Simply set the slow cooker and let it do the magic—ideal for busy schedules!
Crowd-Pleasing: This dish is sure to impress family and friends alike, turning ordinary dinners into festive gatherings.
Versatile Serving: Pair it with steaming egg noodles or your favorite sides to fit any occasion.
Try it out and enjoy a comforting meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Festive Slow-Cooked Beef Tips Ingredients
• Gather the essentials for a cozy feast!
For the Beef
• Boneless beef chuck roast – 2 pounds; the key to tender, melt-in-your-mouth bites.
• Salt – 1 teaspoon; enhances the beef’s natural flavors.
• Pepper – 1/4 teaspoon; adds a hint of spice to the dish.
For the Aromatics
• Canola oil – 2 tablespoons; perfect for browning the beef to lock in moisture.
• Onion – 1 medium, coarsely chopped; for sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Celery rib – 1, coarsely chopped; adds earthy notes to the base.
• Garlic cloves – 6, halved; infuses the dish with irresistible aroma.
For the Cooking Liquid
• Beef broth – 2 cups; gives the dish a rich, savory foundation.
• Dry red wine – 1-1/2 cups; elevates the flavors and tenderizes the meat.
• Fresh rosemary sprig – 1; lends a fragrant, herbal touch to the blend.
• Bay leaf – 1; adds a subtle complexity.
For Thickening the Sauce
• Sliced mushrooms – 2 cans (4 ounces each); enhances umami and complements the beef.
• Cornstarch – 2 tablespoons; thickens the sauce to create a luscious coating.
• Water – 1/2 cup; helps mix the cornstarch smoothly.
• Balsamic vinegar – 1 tablespoon; brightens the flavors and balances richness.
For Serving
• Hot cooked egg noodles – ideal for soaking up the delicious sauce and creating a comforting dish.
Grab these ingredients and get ready to make your own festive slow-cooked beef tips that will fill your kitchen with warmth!
How to Make Festive Slow-Cooked Beef Tips
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Season the Beef: Sprinkle the 2 pounds of boneless beef chuck roast with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper. This will ensure the beef is flavor-packed and ready for cooking.
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Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of canola oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches until it’s nicely seared on all sides—this should take about 5–7 minutes per batch. Once browned, remove the beef with a slotted spoon and transfer it to a 3- or 4-quart slow cooker.
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Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pan where you browned the beef, add 1 medium chopped onion and 1 coarsely chopped celery rib. Cook and stir for 6–8 minutes until tender. Then, add 6 halved garlic cloves and cook for an additional minute, letting those delightful aromas fill the kitchen.
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Create the Cooking Liquid: Pour in 2 cups of beef broth, 1-1/2 cups of dry red wine, and add the fresh rosemary sprig and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it cook down for 8–10 minutes, reducing the liquid to about 2 cups for rich flavor.
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Combine and Cook: Pour the aromatic mixture over the beef in the slow cooker. Stir in 2 cans of sliced mushrooms and cover. Cook on low for 6–8 hours, or until the meat is wonderfully tender. Once cooked, remove the rosemary and bay leaf for a clean finish.
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Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, 1/2 cup of water, and 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar until smooth. Gradually stir this mixture into the beef and sauce in the slow cooker, allowing it to thicken beautifully before serving.
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Serve with Love: Plate the tender beef with hot cooked egg noodles, soaking up all that delicious sauce, and serve warm to create joyful family moments.
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Festive Slow-Cooked Beef Tips are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prep the beef by seasoning it with salt and pepper and browning it up to 24 hours in advance—simply refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, chop the onion and celery ahead of time, and store them in the fridge for optimal freshness. When you’re ready to cook, combine the browned beef with the sautéed aromatics and liquid ingredients in the slow cooker, along with the mushrooms. Let it simmer for 6-8 hours, and you’ll be greeted with a hearty meal that’s just as delicious, with minimal effort. Enjoy cozy family dinners without the last-minute rush!
Festive Slow-Cooked Beef Tips Variations
Let your culinary creativity shine by customizing this heartwarming recipe to fit your family’s taste!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with olive oil for a delightful twist that keeps it vegan-friendly.
- Mushroom Medley: Experiment with a variety of mushrooms, like shiitake or portobello, for an earthy flavor explosion. You’ll be amazed at how each variety adds its unique flair!
- Herb Infusion: Swap rosemary for thyme or sage to enhance the aromatic profile. Each herb brings its own personality to the dish.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a warm, spicy layer that elevates the beef’s warmth. Just a little goes a long way in transforming your meal!
- Red Wine Alternatives: Replace the dry red wine with a rich balsamic vinegar or even a splash of apple cider for a tangy twist. Each option offers a different depth that keeps dinner interesting.
- Vegetable Boost: Toss in additional vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for a colorful and nutritious upgrade. They’ll soak up the delicious sauce and add lovely texture!
- Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest for a bright, unexpected burst of flavor that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the beef.
- Nutty Flavor: Finish your dish with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or walnuts for an added crunch and nutty depth. This can truly bring your festive beef to the next level!
These variations will not only elevate your recipe but also ensure every meal is met with eager anticipation and satisfied smiles around the table.
How to Store and Freeze Festive Slow-Cooked Beef Tips
Room Temperature: Let the beef cool to room temperature before storing; it should not sit out for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the flavor and tenderness of your festive slow-cooked beef tips.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the beef in portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of beef broth or water to maintain moisture while warming.
Tips for the Best Festive Slow-Cooked Beef
Sear for Flavor: Browning the beef first locks in moisture and adds depth of flavor. Don’t skip this essential step!
Mind the Timing: Set your slow cooker early in the day to ensure the beef has ample time to become tender and delicious, ideal for busy schedules.
Wine Quality Matters: Use a decent dry red wine for cooking; it greatly enhances the flavors of the dish and contributes to the overall richness.
Thickening Tips: Stir the cornstarch mixture gradually into the slow cooker; avoid clumps by ensuring it blends smoothly before cooking.
Don’t Rush Serving: Let the meat rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, creating a juicier bite.
With these tips, your festive slow-cooked beef will impress every family member at the dinner table!
What to Serve with Festive Slow-Cooked Beef Tips?
Imagine a family gathering, the air rich with savory aromas, as you bring comfort and joy to the table with inviting side dishes.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture pairs beautifully with tender beef, soaking up the rich sauce for the ultimate comfort food combination.
- Roasted Root Vegetables: A mix of carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes add sweetness and earthy flavors, balancing the hearty beef.
- Steamed Green Beans: Crunchy and vibrant, green beans offer a refreshing contrast and a pop of color against the rich beef.
- Crispy Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up every last drop of sauce, this garlic-laden bread adds a delightful crunch.
- Side Salad: A fresh garden salad with tangy vinaigrette lightens the meal and enhances the overall dining experience.
- Red Wine: A glass of the same dry red wine used in cooking elevates the meal, creating a seamless flavor experience.
- Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, the rich, molten chocolate center provides a decadent and indulgent finish to the meal.
- Fruit Compote: A lightly sweetened fruit compote offers a refreshing, tangy complement to the richness of the beef.
With these delightful pairings, your festive slow-cooked beef tips will shine even brighter, creating lasting memories around the dinner table!
Festive Slow-Cooked Beef Tips Recipe FAQs
What type of beef is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! The star of the show is the boneless beef chuck roast. It’s known for its rich marbling, which adds tenderness and flavor as it slowly cooks. For the best results, choose a roast that has a good amount of fat running through it for optimal juiciness.
How should I store leftovers from the festive slow-cooked beef tips?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to let the beef cool to room temperature before refrigerating, and be sure not to leave it out for more than 2 hours for food safety.
Can I freeze festive slow-cooked beef tips, and if so, how?
Yes, you can! For long-term storage, portion the beef into freezer-safe bags or airtight containers and seal tightly. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.
What should I do if my sauce isn’t thickening properly?
If you find your sauce isn’t thickening as desired, don’t worry! In a small bowl, mix an additional tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water to create a slurry. Gradually stir this into the beef mixture in the slow cooker, and allow it to cook for another 30 minutes on high. This should help create that luscious coating you’re looking for!
Can I adjust this recipe for dietary restrictions, like gluten intolerance?
Very! To make it gluten-free, simply ensure the beef broth you use is labeled gluten-free and swap out the cornstarch for a gluten-free thickening agent if needed, such as arrowroot powder. The recipe is versatile and can cater to various dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor.
These Festive Slow-Cooked Beef Tips Recipe FAQs will help you make the most of your delicious dish while keeping it safe, flavorful, and enjoyable!
Festive Slow-Cooked Beef Tips for Cozy Family Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Sprinkle the 2 pounds of boneless beef chuck roast with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of canola oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches until it's nicely seared on all sides.
- In the same pan, sauté 1 medium chopped onion and 1 coarsely chopped celery rib for 6–8 minutes before adding 6 halved garlic cloves.
- Pour in 2 cups of beef broth, 1-1/2 cups of dry red wine, and add the fresh rosemary sprig and bay leaf. Bring to a boil and cook down for 8–10 minutes.
- Pour the aromatic mixture over the beef in the slow cooker, stir in 2 cans of sliced mushrooms, and cover. Cook on low for 6–8 hours.
- In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, 1/2 cup of water, and 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar until smooth.
- Gradually stir the cornstarch mixture into the beef and sauce in the slow cooker to thicken before serving.
- Plate the tender beef with hot cooked egg noodles and serve warm.