Mexican Beef Tips: A Taste of Home, Simplified

The aroma alone transports me back to my abuela’s kitchen, the slow simmer of spiced beef filling the air. She didn’t measure anything, of course, just a pinch of this, a handful of that, guided by generations of instinct. These Mexican Beef Tips aren’t quite her secret recipe—those measurements are locked away in her memory!—but they capture the same soul-warming flavors in a surprisingly simple way, whether you choose the ease of a slow cooker or the hands-on approach of the stovetop. They’re pure comfort, pure flavor, and guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time (Slow Cooker): 8-10 hours
• Cook Time (Stovetop): 3.5 hours
• Total Time (Slow Cooker): 8 hours 10 minutes
• Total Time (Stovetop): 3 hours 40 minutes
• Servings: 16
• Dietary Type: Can be easily made Dairy-Free and Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• 4 1/2 lbs extra-lean beef tips (cubed for stew)
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 (14 1/2 ounce) cans Mexican-style stewed tomatoes (or regular stewed tomatoes plus 1/2 tsp additional cumin and garlic powder)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (only for stovetop method)
• Water (only for stovetop method, as needed)

Equipment Needed

• 5-quart or larger slow cooker (for slow cooker method)
• 4 1/2-quart or larger Dutch oven (for stovetop method)
• Measuring spoons
• Measuring cups
• Spoon for stirring

Instructions

Slow Cooker Method

1. Place the beef tips in the bottom of a 5-quart or larger slow cooker.

2. Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper evenly over the beef. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it’s what gives the beef its authentic flavor.

3. Add both cans of Mexican-style stewed tomatoes, with their juices, pouring them directly over the beef tips. If using regular stewed tomatoes, add the extra 1/2 teaspoon of cumin and garlic powder at this stage.

4. Cover the slow cooker tightly.

5. Cook on low for 8 to 10 hours. The longer it cooks, the more tender the beef will become.

6. Stir well before serving. The beef should be incredibly tender and easily shredded.

Stovetop Method

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a 4 1/2-quart or larger Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the beef.
2. Brown the beef tips for about 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even browning. This step is crucial for developing deep, rich flavor.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Add both cans of Mexican-style stewed tomatoes, with their juices.
5. Cover the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low.
6. Simmer the beef for 3 1/2 hours, or until the beef cubes are so tender that they fall apart.
7. Stir and check the liquid level periodically. Add water as needed to keep the mixture moist but not soupy. You want a thick, rich sauce coating the beef.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Browning is Key (Stovetop): Don’t skip the browning step when using the stovetop method. It adds a depth of flavor that you won’t achieve otherwise. Sear the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot and steaming the meat.
• Adjusting the Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño to the slow cooker or Dutch oven.
• Thickening the Sauce: If the sauce is too thin after cooking, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking (slow cooker) or simmering (stovetop) to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, you can whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the beef during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Deglazing the Dutch Oven (Stovetop): After browning the beef, deglaze the Dutch oven by pouring in a small amount of beef broth or water and scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This will add even more flavor to the dish.
• Flavor Boost: For an extra layer of flavor, add a chopped onion and a few cloves of garlic to the slow cooker or Dutch oven along with the beef.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These Mexican Beef Tips are incredibly versatile! Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Over shredded lettuce for taco salad, with or without the shell and all the normal taco fixings (shredded cheese, sour cream, guacamole, salsa).
• As a filling with Monterey Jack cheese for quesadillas.
• As a topping for nachos or tostadas.
• As a filling for burritos or tacos.
• Paired with Monterey Jack cheese as a filling for a twist on a Philly cheese-steak sandwich.
• Serve with rice and beans for a complete and satisfying meal.
• Garnished with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream.

Storage:

• Leftover Mexican Beef Tips can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, you can freeze the beef (with the cooking liquid) in an airtight container for 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating:

• To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat for 15 minutes or until heated through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, place in the slow cooker on low for 45 minutes to an hour or until heated through.

Nutritional Information

(Estimated per serving, based on 16 servings)

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	280 kcal	14%
Total Fat	12g	18%
Saturated Fat	5g	25%
Cholesterol	80mg	27%
Sodium	450mg	19%
Total Carbohydrate	10g	3%
Dietary Fiber	2g	7%
Sugars	5g	–
Protein	30g	60%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Spicier Version: Add a diced serrano pepper or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the beef tips with portobello mushrooms cut into bite-sized pieces for a vegetarian version.
• Different Tomatoes: Experiment with different types of stewed tomatoes, such as fire-roasted or diced tomatoes with green chilies, to vary the flavor profile.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like diced bell peppers, onions, or corn for added nutrients and flavor.
• Lower Sodium: Use low-sodium stewed tomatoes and adjust the amount of added salt to your preference.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a different cut of beef?
A: Yes, you can substitute the beef tips with stew meat, chuck roast, or even flank steak. Just be sure to cut the beef into bite-sized pieces before cooking.

Q: Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
A: Absolutely! Brown the beef using the sauté function, then add the remaining ingredients and cook on high pressure for 30-40 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release.

Q: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the beef completely up to 48 hours ahead and refrigerate. Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat for 15 minutes, or in the slow cooker on low for 45 minutes to an hour, until heated through.

Q: What if I don’t have Mexican-style stewed tomatoes?
A: If you can’t find Mexican-style stewed tomatoes, you can use regular stewed tomatoes and add an extra 1/2 teaspoon of cumin and garlic powder to achieve a similar flavor.

Q: How do I prevent the beef from drying out in the slow cooker?
A: Make sure the lid is tightly sealed and avoid opening it during cooking. If the beef seems dry towards the end of the cooking time, add a little extra beef broth or water to keep it moist.

Final Thoughts

These Mexican Beef Tips are more than just a recipe; they’re a taste of tradition, a shortcut to comfort, and a blank canvas for your own culinary creativity. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, I encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices, vegetables, and serving suggestions to create a dish that reflects your personal taste. And, most importantly, don’t forget to share your creation with loved ones and enjoy the warmth and flavor of a truly satisfying meal. Pair these succulent beef tips with a refreshing Mexican beer or a homemade margarita for the ultimate fiesta! ¡Buen provecho!