Welcome to a culinary journey where the classic, comforting flavors of French Onion Soup meet succulent beef tips in the convenience of your slow cooker. This Crock Pot French Onion Beef Tips recipe promises a meal that’s rich, deeply savory, and so tender it practically melts in your mouth. Enveloped in a luxurious brown onion gravy, this dish is designed to impress with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings.
A Gourmet Twist on Classic Beef Tips: The French Onion Infusion
Forget bland, predictable dinners! Our French Onion Beef Tips recipe elevates a simple cut of beef to gourmet status by infusing it with the iconic, caramelized onion and savory broth flavors of a beloved French Onion soup. This isn’t just another slow cooker beef recipe; it’s a symphony of robust tastes and textures. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the transformative power of the slow cooker. You simply combine a few key ingredients, let your crock pot do the heavy lifting, and come home to an incredibly flavorful meal that smells divine.
The “twist” truly comes from layering the classic components of French Onion soup – caramelized onions, rich beef broth, and savory seasonings – directly into the slow cooker with the beef. This creates a deeply concentrated, umami-packed gravy that coats every piece of tender beef. While you have the option to sear the beef beforehand for an extra layer of flavor and color, it’s not strictly necessary, offering flexibility for those mornings when time is of the essence. This recipe was an enormous hit with my family, and I’m confident it will become a cherished favorite in your home too.
The Magic of Slow Cooking: Why It Works for Beef Tips
The slow cooker is an indispensable tool for achieving unparalleled tenderness and flavor development, especially with cuts of meat like beef tips. Low and slow cooking allows connective tissues in the beef to break down gradually, resulting in incredibly succulent meat that can be easily shredded with a fork. Beyond tenderness, the prolonged cooking time allows all the individual flavors from the French onion soup, beef broth, and seasonings to meld together, creating a harmonious and rich gravy that is the hallmark of this dish. It’s truly a set-it-and-forget-it meal that rewards you with a deeply satisfying culinary experience without hours of active kitchen time.
Frequently Asked Questions About French Onion Beef Tips
Absolutely! While the slow cooker is ideal for a hands-off approach, you can certainly achieve delicious results in the oven. To adapt, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season your beef tips as directed in the recipe. In a large oven-safe pot or baking dish (preferably one with a tight-fitting lid, like a Dutch oven), add the seasoned beef. In a separate bowl, whisk together the French onion soup, beefy onion soup mix, and au jus sauce mix until smooth, then pour this mixture evenly over the beef. Cover the pot tightly with a lid or aluminum foil. Bake on the middle rack for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender. The key is to ensure the pot is well-sealed to trap moisture and facilitate the braising process, mimicking the humid environment of a slow cooker.
Searing the meat before slow cooking is an optional but highly recommended step. It isn’t strictly necessary for the beef to cook through and become tender, but it significantly enhances the flavor and develops a beautiful depth of color. This browning process, known as the Maillard reaction, creates complex, savory notes that can’t be achieved otherwise. If you’re short on time in the morning, you can definitely skip this step without compromising the dish entirely; the slow cooker will still produce tender beef with a delicious gravy. However, if you have an extra 5-10 minutes, searing is well worth the effort for that extra layer of rich flavor.
This recipe is incredibly forgiving and works wonderfully with various cuts of beef, especially those that benefit from low and slow cooking. Beef stew meat is a common and excellent choice. Other affordable options include chuck roast, which is known for its marbling and tender results when braised, or round steak, which becomes very tender and flavorful over time. For something with a little extra inherent richness that remains budget-friendly, flat iron steak is a fantastic alternative. It cooks up beautifully tender and can easily feed just as many people. When choosing a cut, look for good marbling, as the fat will render during cooking, contributing to the overall tenderness and flavor of your French Onion Beef Tips. Cut any larger pieces into uniform “tips” (about 1.5-2 inch cubes) for even cooking.
The rich, savory gravy accompanying these beef tips is truly the star, so serving them with something that can soak up every drop is key! My top recommendation is fluffy white rice, which provides a perfect neutral base. For a creamy and indulgent side, my Million Dollar Mashed Potatoes are an absolute dream pairing. Buttery egg noodles or even polenta also make excellent canvases for the delectable sauce.
To balance the richness with a fresh element, consider a vibrant vegetable side. Simple steamed or roasted green beans are a classic choice, and my Maple Glazed Carrots add a touch of sweetness and color. Don’t forget some crusty bread or soft dinner rolls, like my Homemade Dinner Rolls, for dipping into that amazing French onion gravy. A light side salad could also offer a refreshing contrast.
Given that this recipe uses canned French onion soup, beefy onion soup mix, and au jus sauce mix, it can indeed lean towards the salty side for those sensitive to sodium. These processed ingredients often contain significant amounts of salt. If you’re mindful of your sodium intake or typically find similar recipes too salty, I strongly recommend using low-sodium or no-sodium versions of these products wherever possible. Another excellent way to control the salt is by making your own seasoning mixes. For instance, I have a recipe for Homemade Onion Soup Mix that you can prepare without added salt, allowing you to season the dish to your preference. Always taste the gravy towards the end of cooking and adjust with additional salt only if absolutely necessary.
Storing leftovers properly ensures you can enjoy this delicious meal for days to come. Once the dish has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, French Onion Beef Tips freeze exceptionally well. Place the cooled beef and gravy in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, ensuring there’s minimal air to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the gravy if it’s too thick after reheating.
Ingredients for Irresistible Crock Pot French Onion Beef Tips
Crafting this savory slow cooker masterpiece requires a thoughtful selection of ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the deep, complex flavors that define this French onion-infused dish.
- Beef Stew Meat: This is the hero of our recipe. Chosen for its robust flavor and ability to become incredibly tender when slow-cooked, it readily absorbs all the rich, savory notes of the French onion gravy. As discussed in our FAQ section, feel free to explore other beef options like chuck roast, round steak, or flat iron steak.
- Vegetable Oil: Essential for searing the beef, which helps develop a rich, caramelized crust, adding depth of flavor to the overall dish. Olive oil or avocado oil can also be used as suitable alternatives.
- Yellow Onion: The foundation of our French onion flavor. Sliced thinly, these onions will slowly caramelize and melt into the gravy, providing a sweet, savory base. White onions can be used if yellow onions are unavailable.
- French Onion Soup (Canned): This ingredient brings instant depth and a concentrated onion flavor to the gravy. To manage sodium levels, especially given other packet seasonings, I highly recommend opting for low-sodium or no-sodium versions.
- Beefy Onion Soup Mix (Packet): A powerful flavor enhancer that contributes both beefy and onion notes, thickening the sauce and adding savory complexity. Again, consider a low-sodium option or use homemade onion soup mix for better salt control.
- Au Jus Sauce Mix (Packet): This mix is key for creating a rich, restaurant-quality gravy. It provides a deep, savory background and helps thicken the sauce. Opt for a low-sodium brand to ensure the dish isn’t overly salty.
- Unsalted Butter: Added towards the end of the cooking process, butter enriches the gravy, making it silky smooth and adding a luxurious mouthfeel. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish.
- Shredded Mozzarella and Provolone Cheese: These cheeses are sprinkled on top in the final stages, melting into a glorious, gooey cap reminiscent of traditional French Onion soup. While Gruyere is classic for French Onion soup, mozzarella and provolone offer a budget-friendly and widely available alternative that melts beautifully. Don’t hesitate to experiment with other good melting cheeses if you have a favorite!
- Ground Black Pepper: A simple seasoning that complements the beef and enhances the overall savory profile. You can adjust the amount to your taste.
How to Make Crock Pot French Onion Beef Tips: Step-by-Step Guide
Creating this deeply flavorful and tender beef tips dish in your slow cooker is straightforward. Follow these steps for a perfect meal every time:
- Sear the Beef (Optional but Recommended): Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and swirl to coat the bottom evenly. Add the beef stew meat (cut into smaller, uniform pieces if necessary). Sprinkle 1 ½ teaspoons of ground black pepper over the meat. Allow the beef to sear, browning on one side for 1-2 minutes until it lifts easily without sticking. Flip and sear the other side for the same amount of time. Remember, you’re not cooking the beef through, just achieving a beautiful brown crust that adds significant flavor. Once seared, remove the beef from the skillet.
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Lightly spray the bottom of a 5-6 quart slow cooker with non-stick spray. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Layer the Onions: Arrange 1 thinly sliced yellow onion in an even layer at the bottom of the slow cooker. This creates a flavorful bed for the beef and ensures the onions slowly caramelize into the sauce.
- Add the Beef and Seasonings: Evenly distribute the seared beef tips over the layer of onions.
- Sprinkle Au Jus Mix: Generously sprinkle 1 packet of low-sodium Au Jus sauce mix over the beef. This powder will dissolve into the cooking liquids, contributing to a rich, savory gravy.
- Add Beefy Onion Soup Mix: Next, evenly sprinkle 1 packet of beefy onion soup mix over the Au Jus layer. This provides a concentrated burst of beef and onion flavor.
- Pour in French Onion Soup: Pour 1 (10.5 ounce) can of French Onion Soup over all the ingredients in the crock pot. This liquid will be the primary braising agent, slowly transforming into a luxurious gravy.
- Add Butter: Place 5 tablespoons of unsalted butter, sliced into pats, on top of everything. As the butter melts, it will enrich the sauce and add a silky texture.
- Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on the low setting for 4-6 hours, or until the beef is incredibly tender and easily pulls apart with a fork. Resist the urge to lift the lid frequently, as this releases heat and prolongs cooking time.
- Melt the Cheese: Approximately 30 minutes before the end of the cooking time, sprinkle 2 cups of shredded Mozzarella and Provolone cheese (or Gruyere, if preferred) evenly over the beef tips and gravy.
- Serve: Cover the slow cooker again and allow the cheese to melt into a bubbly, golden layer before serving.
The Flavor Profile and Customization Tips
The Crock Pot French Onion Beef Tips boast a deeply complex flavor profile. You’ll experience the savory richness of beef, the subtle sweetness and umami from the slow-cooked onions, and a harmonious blend of seasonings that create a truly comforting and satisfying gravy. The melted cheese on top adds a creamy, slightly tangy finish that rounds out every bite.
While the recipe is perfect as is, you can also customize it to suit your palate. For an even deeper flavor, a splash of dry red wine (like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon) can be added to the slow cooker along with the soup. Fresh thyme or bay leaves can also be incorporated at the beginning of the cooking process for an aromatic boost. If you enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick. Experiment with different cheese blends for the topping; a mix of Swiss and Provolone, or even a smoked Gouda, could offer intriguing variations. Remember, cooking is an art, and this recipe provides a wonderful canvas for your culinary creativity!
Craving More Slow Cooker Comfort Recipes?
If you loved the ease and flavor of these French Onion Beef Tips, you’re in for a treat! The French onion flavor profile translates beautifully into many other slow cooker dishes. Explore these related recipes for more effortless and delicious meals:
- Crock Pot French Onion Meatloaf
- Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs
- Crock Pot French Onion Soup
- Crock Pot French Onion Chicken
- Crock Pot Beef Stew
- The Best Beef Stew
- Instant Pot Beef Stew
Crock Pot French Onion Beef Tips
Tender beef tips cooked slowly in a Slow Cooker with a rich brown gravy.
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- Prep Time:
- 5 minutes
- Cook Time:
- 6 hours
- Total Time:
- 6 hours 5 minutes
- Servings:
- 4
- Author:
- Brandie Skibinski
Ingredients
- 2 Tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 pound beef stew meat
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground black pepper
- 1 yellow onion, cut into thin slices
- 1 packet low sodium Au Jus sauce mix (see notes below)
- 1 packet Beefy Onion Soup Mix (can use low sodium if you can find it)
- 1 (10.5 ounce) can French Onion Soup (can use low sodium if you can find it)
- 5 Tablespoons unsalted butter, sliced
- 2 cups shredded Mozzarella and Provolone Cheese (can use shredded Gruyere cheese)
Instructions
- Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 Tablespoons vegetable oil and swirl around to evenly coat the bottom.
- Add 1 pound beef stew meat and break up into smaller pieces. Season the meat with 1 ½ teaspoons ground black pepper and allow the meat to sear (get brown) for 1-2 minutes or until the meat can lift without sticking. Brown the other side for the same amount of time then remove from heat. NOTE: You aren’t cooking all the way through, just getting a nice brown color on both sides.
- Spray the bottom of a 5-6 quart crockpot with non-stick spray.
- Add 1 yellow onion, cut into thin slices in an even layer on the bottom.
- Add the beef tips evenly on top of the onions.
- Sprinkle 1 packet low sodium Au Jus sauce mix over the top of the beef.
- Then evenly sprinkle 1 packet Beefy Onion Soup Mix on top.
- Pour 1 (10.5 ounce) can French Onion Soup over the top of everything.
- Place 5 Tablespoons unsalted butter, sliced on the top.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the beef is tender.
- When there is approximately 30 minutes left in cooking, sprinkle 2 cups shredded Mozzarella and Provolone Cheese over the beef. Cover and allow it to melt before serving.
Notes
- Please refer to my FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions) and ingredient list above for other substitutions or for the answers to the most common questions.
- NOTE: I recommend low or no sodium options (where possible) for the packet and canned ingredients. This can taste salty if you don’t. You can always season with additional salt if you find it needs it. You can also make your own Homemade Onion Soup Mix and Au Jus seasoning to control the salt.
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 ½ cups.
- Course:
- Dinner, Main Course
- Cuisine:
- American
Nutrition
- Calories:
- 526 kcal
- Carbohydrates:
- 4 g
- Protein:
- 38 g
- Fat:
- 39 g
- Sodium:
- 440 mg
- Fiber:
- 1 g
- Sugar:
- 2 g
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.
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