No Peek Beef Tips

If you’re searching for a comforting, hearty dish that practically cooks itself and delivers tender, flavorful beef every time, then No Peek Beef Tips is about to become your new favorite. This simple, slow-cooked recipe uses basic pantry ingredients and stew meat to create a rich, savory meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. The magic lies in the “no peek” method—letting the slow cooker or oven do its work without lifting the lid, allowing the beef to become melt-in-your-mouth tender with minimal effort.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

This recipe is a true game-changer for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly hands-off. You combine a handful of ingredients, set it, and forget it until dinnertime, making it perfect for anyone juggling a busy schedule. Second, the flavor profile is exceptionally rich and comforting thanks to the combination of beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, and beefy onion soup mix. These ingredients meld beautifully to create a luscious sauce that clings to every tender bite of beef.

Another reason this recipe deserves a spot in your regular meal lineup is its versatility. Whether you’re serving it over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice, it pairs beautifully and feels like a restaurant-quality dish without the fuss. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to satisfy hungry family members or guests. If you love recipes like Skillet Beef Stroganoff With Mushrooms Wide Noodles, you’ll appreciate how this recipe delivers similar comforting flavors with even less effort.

Ingredient Rundown

• 2 to 2 ½ pounds beef stew meat (or beef tenderloin tips if you prefer a more tender cut)—provides hearty, flavorful chunks of beef that become tender with slow cooking.
• 1 1/3 cups beef broth—adds moisture and richness to the dish, enhancing the beef’s natural flavor.
• 10.5 ounces cream of mushroom soup—creates a creamy, velvety sauce that coats the beef perfectly.
• 2.2 ounces beefy onion soup mix (Lipton brand used)—packs in savory, onion-infused seasoning that elevates the taste.
• 0.87 ounces brown gravy mix (store brand used)—thickens the sauce and adds a deep, beefy flavor.
• 1 tablespoon Kitchen Bouquet (optional)—a browning and seasoning sauce that adds color and depth to the beef tips.
• ½ teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper—adds a subtle kick and balances the richness of the sauce.
• 2 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley (curly parsley used, optional garnish)—brightens the dish with a fresh herbal note and adds color.

Must-Have Equipment

• Slow cooker or Dutch oven: The slow cooker is ideal for the “no peek” cooking method, but a Dutch oven with a tight-fitting lid works beautifully in the oven.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
• Sharp knife and cutting board: To chop fresh parsley for garnish.
• Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula: To stir ingredients before cooking.
• Serving dish or platter: To present your beautiful beef tips.

Make No Peek Beef Tips: A Simple Method

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by trimming any excess fat from the beef stew meat, if desired. This helps reduce grease in the final dish. Measure out all your ingredients, including broth, cream of mushroom soup, beefy onion soup mix, brown gravy mix, pepper, and optional Kitchen Bouquet.

Step 2: Combine Everything in Your Cooking Vessel

Place the beef stew meat directly into your slow cooker or Dutch oven. Pour in the beef broth, then add the cream of mushroom soup, beefy onion soup mix, and brown gravy mix. Sprinkle the cracked black pepper over the top. If you’re using Kitchen Bouquet, drizzle it in now. Give everything a gentle stir just to combine—no need to overmix or break up the beef chunks.

Step 3: Cook Without Peeking

Cover the slow cooker or Dutch oven with a tight-fitting lid. The key to tender beef tips is to resist the urge to lift the lid and peek. If using a slow cooker, cook on low for 6-8 hours. If you prefer the oven, place the Dutch oven in a preheated 300°F oven and cook for about 3 hours. The steam trapped inside ensures the beef becomes fork-tender and the sauce thickens beautifully.

Step 4: Finish and Garnish

When the cooking time is up, remove the lid and give the beef tips a gentle stir. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

Warm & Cool Weather Spins

• Warm weather: Serve No Peek Beef Tips over a bed of fluffy couscous or chilled buttered noodles for a lighter feel.
• Cool weather: Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes or hearty roasted root vegetables to soak up the rich sauce.
• Add a splash of red wine to the broth mixture for a deeper, more robust flavor perfect for fall and winter evenings.
• In summer, try topping it with fresh sautéed mushrooms and green beans for a vibrant contrast.

Little Things that Matter

Here are some tips to ensure your No Peek Beef Tips come out perfectly every time:

• Don’t lift the lid: Trust the slow cooking process. Lifting the lid releases steam and heat, which can extend cooking time and dry out the beef.
• Use fresh cracked pepper: It adds a more complex, vibrant flavor than pre-ground pepper.
• Trim excess fat: While some fat adds flavor, too much can make the sauce greasy. Trim wisely.
• Let it rest: After cooking, let the beef tips sit covered for 10 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

Leftovers of No Peek Beef Tips are just as delicious and easy to store:

• Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: This dish freezes beautifully. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of beef broth if the sauce is too thick.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use other cuts of beef for No Peek Beef Tips?

Yes! While beef stew meat is ideal for slow cooking and becoming tender, you can also use beef chuck roast cut into cubes or beef tenderloin tips for a more tender but pricier option. Just adjust cooking time slightly if needed.

What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?

You can substitute with a homemade mushroom sauce or use cream of celery soup for a slightly different flavor. Another option is mixing sautéed mushrooms with some heavy cream or a plant-based alternative to mimic the creaminess.

Is Kitchen Bouquet necessary?

Kitchen Bouquet is optional and mainly adds color and a touch of savory depth. If you don’t have it, the dish will still taste fantastic without it.

Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Absolutely! Using an Instant Pot speeds up the process significantly. Brown the beef using the sauté function, add the remaining ingredients, seal the lid, and cook on high pressure for about 35 minutes. For a similar flavor profile, you might also enjoy trying the Instant Pot Mississippi Pot Roast.

Serve with These

• Wide egg noodles tossed in butter and fresh herbs for a classic pairing.
• Garlic mashed potatoes to soak up every bit of the rich sauce.
• Steamed green beans or roasted asparagus for a vibrant vegetable side.
• Crispy dinner rolls to mop up the delicious sauce.

In Closing

No Peek Beef Tips is a recipe that truly delivers on convenience, flavor, and comfort. Its simple ingredient list and effortless cooking method make it accessible for cooks of all levels, and the results are consistently delicious. Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting guests, or just craving something satisfying and easy, this dish fits the bill. Remember to keep the lid closed, trust the slow cooking magic, and get ready to enjoy tender, flavorful beef that melts in your mouth. Next time you’re planning dinner, consider pairing it with buttery noodles or mashed potatoes for a complete meal that everyone will love.

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