Creamy Crockpot Beef Tips & Mushrooms

### **Instructions:**

#### **1. Sear the Beef:**
Start by searing the beef tips for extra flavor. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the beef tips and sear them for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are nicely browned. This step adds depth of flavor to the dish, but if you’re short on time, you can skip it and add the beef directly to the slow cooker.

#### **2. Prepare the Slow Cooker:**
Transfer the seared beef tips to your crockpot. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and sliced mushrooms to the slow cooker as well. These vegetables will absorb the flavors from the beef and add richness to the sauce.

#### **3. Make the Creamy Sauce:**
In a separate bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and dried thyme. Whisk everything together until smooth and well-combined. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.

#### **4. Cook in the Crockpot:**
Pour the creamy mixture over the beef and vegetables in the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the beef is tender and fully cooked.

#### **5. Finish and Serve:**
Once the beef is cooked, give everything a gentle stir to ensure the sauce is well incorporated. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if necessary.

Serve the creamy beef tips and mushrooms over a bed of mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

### **Tips for Success:**
– **Meat Choice:** Beef stew meat or beef tips are ideal for this recipe because they become incredibly tender when slow-cooked. If you’re using a different cut of beef, like a chuck roast, be sure to cut it into smaller pieces before adding it to the crockpot.
– **Mushrooms:** If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, feel free to leave them out or replace them with another vegetable, such as carrots or peas.
– **Sour Cream:** For a tangier flavor, you can add more sour cream to taste. If you prefer a richer sauce, consider using heavy cream instead of sour cream.
– **Serving Suggestions:** This dish is perfect served with mashed potatoes, buttered rice, or egg noodles, but you can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

### **Conclusion:**
**Creamy Crockpot Beef Tips & Mushrooms** is a simple yet comforting dish that’s perfect for busy days when you want a delicious, homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, leaving you with tender beef, savory mushrooms, and a rich, creamy sauce that pairs beautifully with your favorite sides. It’s a warm, hearty meal that’s perfect for feeding your family or impressing guests.

With just a few simple ingredients and a little prep time, this recipe offers maximum flavor with minimal effort. So, set it in your crockpot and let it work its magic—your taste buds will thank you!