Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy: Easy, Flavorful Dinner

Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy is my absolute go-to for a no-stress, insanely delicious dinner that feels like you’ve been standing in the kitchen all day (spoiler: you haven’t). This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you just need your dinner to cook itself. With tender, flavorful beef cubes simmering in a creamy mushroom gravy, you’ll have an ultra-satisfying meal that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or even cauliflower mash.

Here’s why I love it: traditional beef tips and gravy recipes can take hours of active cooking and babysitting on the stovetop, but with this slow cooker shortcut, you can “set it and forget it.” While your slow cooker works its magic, you get to enjoy hands-off time—watch your favorite show, help with homework, or just relax. Trust me, this recipe is about to become a lifesaver in your dinner rotation.

Why This Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy Is a Game-Changer

• Saves Time: Traditional beef tips with gravy can take over 2 hours on the stovetop. This recipe shaves that active time down to just 15 minutes of prep.
• Hands-Off Cooking: Your slow cooker does 90% of the work, so you’re free to focus on other things.
• No Sacrifice on Flavor: The low and slow cooking process ensures the meat becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender while the gravy soaks up all the savory goodness.
• Versatile Pairings: Serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or even buttery egg noodles—whatever you’ve got on hand!
• Customizable: Add or swap ingredients depending on what’s in your fridge—it’s very forgiving.

Equipment You’ll Need for This Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy

Here’s what you need to make this recipe happen:

• Slow Cooker: Any slow cooker works, but I love using one with a programmable timer to automatically switch to “warm” once cooking is done.
• Cast Iron Skillet or Instant Pot: For searing the beef (this step is worth it for extra flavor!). You can use the sauté function on your Instant Pot if you prefer.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Basic kitchen tools to measure out your ingredients.
• Wooden Spoon: Ideal for deglazing the pan and stirring the gravy without scratching your cookware.

Simple Ingredients for Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy

Just a few ingredients come together to create a one-pot masterpiece. Grab these staples from your pantry and fridge:

• Chuck Roast: A budget-friendly cut that becomes ultra-tender during slow cooking. Pre-cubed stew meat is a convenient alternative.
• Baby Bella Mushrooms: These add a deep, earthy flavor to the gravy. Thick slices hold up well to slow cooking.
• Worcestershire Sauce: The secret to unlocking complex, savory depth in the gravy.
• Pepperoncini Peppers: A surprise flavor boost that adds just a hint of tang and spice—don’t skip these!

Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy Recipe Details

• Servings: 8-10
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Difficulty: Easy

Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 pounds chuck roast, trimmed and cubed (or stew meat)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 onion, diced
• 8 ounces baby Bella mushrooms, thickly sliced
• 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon mushroom powder
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 large bay leaf
• ½ cup pepperoncini peppers, thinly sliced
• 1 ½ – 2 cups low-sodium beef stock
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (mixed with water)

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy

1. Sear the Beef: Toss the beef cubes with flour, salt, and pepper. Heat butter in a cast iron skillet or the sauté setting of your Instant Pot. Brown the beef in batches, then remove to a plate.
2. Cook the Onions: In the same skillet, sauté the onions for about 1 minute. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up the flavorful browned bits stuck to the pan (this is where the magic starts).
3. Slow Cooker Method: Combine the beef stock, seared beef, onions, mushrooms, garlic powder, sugar, onion powder, thyme, mushroom powder, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaf, and pepperoncini in the slow cooker. Cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 5-7 hours.
4. Thicken the Gravy: About 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, whisk cornstarch into ½ cup of the cooking liquid, then stir it back into the slow cooker. Stir and cook for the remaining 30 minutes until the gravy thickens.
5. Serve: Remove the bay leaf. Serve the beef tips and mushroom gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or cauliflower mash. Enjoy the hearty, comforting flavors!

Jake’s Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy

• Don’t Skimp on Searing: Searing the beef adds a ton of flavor to the dish—don’t skip it!
• Use Low-Sodium Stock: This helps you control the salt level in the final dish.
• Make It Ahead: The flavors get even better the next day, making this a great meal prep option.
• Storing Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
• Get Creative: Add diced carrots or peas if you want more veggies in the mix.

Easy Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy Variations

• Swap the Mushrooms: Use white button mushrooms or skip them altogether if preferred.
• Spicy Twist: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and cornstarch instead of regular flour.
• Vegetable Boost: Stir in cooked green beans or peas just before serving for added color and nutrients.

Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy FAQs

Can I use an Instant Pot instead of a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Use the “Meat/Stew” function for 35 minutes, then release the pressure naturally for 10-15 minutes. Follow the same thickening method using cornstarch.

What’s the best cut of beef for this recipe?

Chuck roast is perfect because it’s budget-friendly and becomes tender with slow cooking. You can also use pre-cubed stew meat.

Why is my gravy too thin?

If the gravy needs thickening, dissolve 1-2 teaspoons of cornstarch in water and stir it into the slow cooker. Let it cook an additional 10 minutes.

Can I freeze Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy?

Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.

Give this recipe a try and tell me: what’s your go-to way to serve beef tips? I’m all ears in the comments. Let’s swap kitchen shortcuts and make our weeknight meals even easier!