Crockpot Beef Tips and Noodles: A Comfort Food Classic

Crockpot beef tips and noodles is the perfect dish for busy days when you crave a hearty, comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Tender, slow-cooked beef tips simmered in a rich, savory sauce served over egg noodles—this dish is the ultimate comfort food. With simple ingredients and a hands-off cooking process, this recipe is ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or even casual entertaining.

In this post, I’ll walk you through how to make crockpot beef tips and noodles, share helpful tips, and answer common questions so you can enjoy a meal that’s as delicious as it is easy to make.

Why You’ll Love Crockpot Beef Tips and Noodles

1. Easy to Make
This recipe is incredibly simple. Just add the ingredients to the slow cooker, let it work its magic, and you’re rewarded with a flavorful, crowd-pleasing dish. There’s no need for constant monitoring, making it ideal for those who want to set it and forget it.

2. Family-Friendly
Kids and adults alike will love the comforting flavors of this dish. The tender beef and flavorful sauce appeal to picky eaters, while the noodles provide a familiar base that pairs perfectly with the hearty toppings.

3. Perfectly Tender Beef
The slow cooker ensures the beef tips become melt-in-your-mouth tender. By the time it’s ready, the beef will shred easily with a fork, making every bite rich and satisfying.

4. Versatile and Customizable
This dish can be adapted to suit your taste. Add vegetables like carrots, mushrooms, or peas to make it heartier, or mix in a touch of cream for a luxurious, creamy sauce. You can even swap the noodles for rice, mashed potatoes, or gluten-free pasta to fit your preferences.

5. Great for Leftovers
Crockpot beef tips and noodles reheat beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep. The flavors deepen overnight, so it’s just as delicious the next day, if not better!

Once you try this dish, it’s guaranteed to become a go-to dinner in your household. Comforting, easy, and flavorful—it checks all the boxes!

Pair this dish with a comforting side like Crockpot Southern Green Beans or the hearty Slow Cooker Cabbage Recipe for a complete and satisfying meal.

Ingredients for Crockpot Beef Tips and Noodles

For the Beef Tips and Sauce:

• 2 lbs beef stew meat or sirloin tips, cubed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Salt, to taste
• 2 tbsp cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp water for a slurry)

For the Noodles:

• 12 oz egg noodles
• 1 tbsp butter (optional, for tossing with noodles)

Looking for an alternative protein-packed crockpot recipe? Check out Slow Cooker Turkey Wings.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Beef (Optional)

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Sear the beef tips on all sides until browned. This step adds extra flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.

2. Layer the Ingredients

1. Place the beef tips in the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, thyme, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Stir to combine.

3. Slow Cook the Beef Tips

1. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender and easily shredded with a fork.

4. Thicken the Sauce

1. About 30 minutes before serving, whisk the cornstarch slurry into the slow cooker. Stir well to combine, then cover and cook until the sauce thickens.

5. Cook the Noodles

1. While the sauce thickens, cook the egg noodles in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and toss with butter, if desired.

6. Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve the beef tips and sauce over the cooked egg noodles. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color, if desired.

To add a slightly sweeter twist to your crockpot repertoire, try Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken—another slow-cooked recipe that’s perfect for family dinners.

Tips for the Best Crockpot Beef Tips and Noodles

1. Choose the Right Cut of Beef
For the most tender beef tips, use cuts like stew meat, sirloin tips, or chuck roast. These cuts are perfect for slow cooking as the long, low-heat process breaks down the connective tissue, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth meat.

2. Brown the Beef (Optional)
While not mandatory, searing the beef before adding it to the slow cooker adds depth and enhances the flavor of the dish. The caramelized edges from browning contribute to a richer, more complex sauce.

3. Use Low-Sodium Ingredients
To keep the dish from becoming too salty, opt for low-sodium beef broth and soy sauce. You can always adjust the seasoning later, but reducing sodium at the start ensures a balanced flavor.

4. Add Vegetables for Extra Flavor
Incorporate carrots, mushrooms, or celery to make the dish more filling and nutrient-rich. For softer vegetables like peas, add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent them from overcooking.

5. Cook the Noodles Separately
Avoid mushy noodles by cooking them just before serving. Tossing the cooked noodles in butter or olive oil will prevent them from sticking together.

6. Thicken the Sauce Correctly
For a thicker, gravy-like sauce, use a cornstarch slurry. Add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking and stir well to prevent lumps.

7. Adjust Seasoning at the End
Taste the sauce before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or other seasonings to your preference. A dash of Worcestershire or soy sauce can enhance the umami flavor.

Following these tips ensures your crockpot beef tips and noodles turn out tender, flavorful, and perfectly satisfying every time!

For a vegetable-rich side that complements the dish beautifully, consider making Perfect Southern Green Beans with Potatoes.

Making Crockpot Beef Tips and Noodles for Meal Prep

Crockpot beef tips and noodles are perfect for meal prep. Cook a large batch and divide it into individual portions with noodles or mashed potatoes. Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. This dish reheats beautifully in the microwave or on the stovetop, making it ideal for quick, hearty lunches or dinners during a busy week.

Crockpot Beef Tips and Noodles for Gatherings

This dish is an excellent choice for feeding a crowd. It’s affordable, easy to prepare, and keeps well in a slow cooker on the “warm” setting during gatherings. Serve it alongside rolls, roasted vegetables, and a crisp salad for a complete and satisfying meal that guests will rave about.

Making a Creamy Version

For a creamy variation, stir in 1/2 cup of sour cream or heavy cream during the last 15-30 minutes of cooking. The creamy texture adds richness and creates a luxurious sauce that coats the noodles beautifully. Garnish with parsley or chives for a pop of freshness.

Variations to Try

1. Creamy Beef Tips and Noodles: Stir in 1/2 cup of sour cream or heavy cream at the end for a creamy twist.
2. Vegetable-Packed Version: Add carrots, mushrooms, or peas to the slow cooker for extra nutrients and flavor.
3. Spicy Beef Tips: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
4. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free noodles or rice instead of egg noodles, and ensure your soy sauce and broth are gluten-free.
5. Herbaceous Touch: Mix in fresh herbs like rosemary, parsley, or thyme for a fresh, aromatic finish.

What to Serve with Crockpot Beef Tips and Noodles

Pair this hearty dish with sides that complement its rich flavors:

FAQs About Crockpot Beef Tips and Noodles

1. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can use chuck roast, sirloin, or even pork tenderloin as a substitute. Adjust the cooking time based on the cut to ensure it becomes tender.

2. Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?
Absolutely! Carrots, mushrooms, or peas can be added for extra flavor and nutrition. Add softer vegetables like peas during the last 30 minutes to prevent overcooking.

3. How do I prevent the sauce from being too thin?
Use a cornstarch slurry (2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water) to thicken the sauce. Stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

4. Can I freeze crockpot beef tips and noodles?
Yes! Freeze the beef tips and sauce separately from the noodles to prevent the noodles from becoming mushy. Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months, then thaw and reheat before serving.

5. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat the beef tips and sauce on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of beef broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Heat the noodles separately for the best texture.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Why Crockpot Beef Tips and Noodles Is a Must-Try

Crockpot beef tips and noodles combine the ease of slow cooking with the comfort of a hearty, home-cooked meal. The tender beef, rich sauce, and perfectly cooked noodles create a dish that feels indulgent yet simple to prepare. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.