This Easy No Peek Beef Tips recipe is a winner! Delicious chunks of beef cook slowly with tasty gravy, all in one pot. No peeking means less fuss for you!
You’ll love how tender and juicy the beef turns out. I often serve it over rice or noodles for a cozy meal. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy less time in the kitchen? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: Use cuts like chuck or round. They have the right amount of fat to become tender. If you’re looking for a leaner option, sirloin works, but it may not be as juicy.
Onion: A yellow onion adds a nice sweetness to the dish. If you prefer, you can swap in a white onion or shallots for a milder taste.
Onion Soup Mix: This mix adds flavor with ease. If you’re avoiding processed foods, make a quick homemade version with dried onion, garlic powder, and seasoning. You can totally customize it!
Cornstarch: This is optional for thickening. If you’re gluten-free, use arrowroot powder or a gluten-free flour mix instead.
How Do I Get the Beef Tender Without Peeking?
The secret to tender beef is low and slow cooking, and keeping that lid on is key! Follow these easy steps:
- Brown the beef well to lock in flavor.
- Add all your liquids and seasonings, then cover tightly to trap heat and moisture.
- Set the heat low and forget about it for 1.5 to 2 hours. This time is crucial for the meat to become tender!
Trust the process – no peeking means you won’t lose any heat or steam, which helps the beef become melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
Easy No Peek Beef Tips Recipe for Tender Flavor
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Tips:
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 packet (1 oz) onion soup mix
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (optional, for thickening)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 1.5 to 2 hours to cook. So in total, you can expect to spend around 2 hours in the kitchen, with most of that time just letting the beef become tender and flavorful. It’s a no-fuss dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat to the skillet and let it brown on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. This step is important because it locks in the flavor. When the beef is nicely browned, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook them for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and fragrant. This will add a beautiful flavor base for the beef tips.
3. Combine Everything:
Now, return the browned beef tips back to the skillet. Pour in the beef broth and water, then add the onion soup mix, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Stir everything gently to combine well.
4. Start Cooking:
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover the skillet tightly with a lid. This is where the magic happens! Lower the heat and let it cook undisturbed for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Don’t peek during this time—allow the flavors to meld and the beef to turn incredibly tender.
5. Thicken the Gravy (Optional):
If you like your gravy thicker, after the cooking time is up, mix the cornstarch with cold water in a small bowl. Stir this mixture into the skillet and let it cook uncovered for an additional 5 minutes until the gravy becomes nice and thick.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your beef tips are ready! Serve them over fluffy rice, tender noodles, or creamy mashed potatoes. Enjoy your delicious, no-peek beef tips and the wonderful flavors you created!
FAQ for Easy No Peek Beef Tips
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Absolutely! While stew meat is ideal for tenderness, you can also use chuck roast or round roast cuts. Just make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
What If I Don’t Have Onion Soup Mix?
No problem! You can make a substitute by using 1 tablespoon of dried onion flakes, combined with garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Adjust according to taste to add flavor to your dish!
Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?
Yes! Simply follow the browning step as mentioned, then transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender and delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth to keep the moisture intact.
