Slow Cooker French Onion Beef Tips

If you love cozy, hearty dinners that practically cook themselves, you’re going to want to save this recipe. These Slow Cooker French Onion Beef Tips are one of those meals I usually make when I want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.

The beef slowly cooks with plenty of sweet onions and a rich, savory gravy until everything is incredibly tender. Honestly, the smell while this is cooking is amazing!

I especially love serving these beef tips over mashed potatoes because the gravy soaks right in. Rice or egg noodles work great too, but mashed potatoes are my personal favorite.

Ingredients

2 pounds beef stew meat or beef tips
2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups beef broth
1 packet French onion soup mix
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons cold water
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Step-by-Step Method

1. Season the Beef

Pat the beef tips dry with paper towels. Season them with garlic powder, black pepper, and dried thyme.

2. Brown the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches and sear for about 2–3 minutes per side.

You don’t need to cook it through. I usually just want a nice brown crust because it adds so much flavor to the finished dish.

3. Caramelize the Onions

Add the butter to the same skillet, followed by the sliced onions. Cook for about 7–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become soft and golden.

Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

4. Build the Gravy

Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir well. Slowly add the beef broth while stirring.

Add the French onion soup mix, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce. Stir until everything is combined.

5. Add to the Slow Cooker

Place the browned beef into the slow cooker. Pour the onion and gravy mixture over the top.

Give everything a gentle stir, then cover.

6. Slow Cook

Cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.

The beef should be very tender when finished, and the onions should practically melt into the gravy.

7. Thicken the Gravy

Mix the cornstarch with cold water until smooth.

Stir the mixture into the slow cooker during the last 15–20 minutes of cooking. Cover again and allow the gravy to thicken.

8. Serve

Taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot over your favorite side dish.

Cooking Tips

Brown the beef first: It adds a deeper, richer flavor.
Don’t rush the onions: Letting them soften and caramelize gives the gravy a wonderful sweetness.
Use LOW when possible: I find the beef becomes especially tender this way.
Thicken at the end: Cornstarch works best when added during the final part of cooking.
Watch the salt: French onion soup mix, soy sauce, and beef broth can all contain quite a bit of sodium.
Make it extra rich: Add sliced mushrooms along with the onions for even more savory flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These beef tips are perfect over:

Creamy mashed potatoes
Buttered egg noodles
White or brown rice
Mashed cauliflower
Roasted potatoes
Steamed vegetables
Crusty dinner rolls

Honestly, I recommend having some crusty bread nearby. That gravy is way too good to leave behind!

Nutrition Information

Approximate per serving, based on 6 servings:

Calories: 430
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 950mg

Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary depending on the ingredients and portion sizes used.

Conclusion

These Slow Cooker French Onion Beef Tips are pure comfort food. The tender beef, sweet onions, and rich savory gravy come together into a meal that tastes like it took all day to make—even though the slow cooker does most of the work.

I usually serve mine over creamy mashed potatoes, but noodles and rice are equally delicious. If you’re looking for an easy family dinner that’s warm, filling, and packed with flavor, definitely give this recipe a try!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another cut of beef?

Yes. Beef stew meat, chuck roast cut into chunks, or other suitable braising cuts can work well. Choose beef with some marbling for the most tender results.

2. Can I skip browning the beef?

Yes, but browning is highly recommended. It creates a flavorful crust and adds extra depth to the gravy.

3. Can I add mushrooms?

Absolutely! Sliced mushrooms are delicious with the beef and onions. Add them to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Allow the beef and gravy to cool, then transfer them to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days and reheat gently before serving.

5. Can I freeze these beef tips?

Yes. Let the cooked beef and gravy cool completely, then freeze in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to about 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.