Simple Beef Tips With Mushrooms

I can still remember the first time I tasted beef tips. It was a cold autumn evening, and the aroma wafting from my grandmother’s kitchen was intoxicating – a blend of savory beef, earthy mushrooms, and sweet onions. Her beef tips weren’t fancy, but they were cooked with love, and every bite felt like a warm hug. That comforting, rustic flavor has stuck with me through the years, and this simple recipe is my tribute to those cherished memories, a way to bring a little bit of Grandma’s kitchen into my own.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Dietary Type: Variable (see variations)

Ingredients

• 1 lb beef tenderloin tips
• 8 ounces fresh mushrooms, sliced
• 1/3 cup onion, sliced thin
• 1 (10 1/2 ounce) can beef broth
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• Optional: Cornstarch for thickening

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Separate smaller pan or skillet

Instructions

1. Begin by browning the beef tips in the large skillet over medium-high heat. The goal here is to get a nice sear on all sides of the beef. Work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause the beef to steam instead of brown. Cook until the beef is no longer pink on the outside, usually around 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef tips from the skillet and set aside.

2. In the smaller pan or skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced mushrooms and thinly sliced onions. Sauté them until they are soft and have released their moisture, about 3-4 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The mushrooms should be tender and slightly browned, and the onions translucent.

3. Add the browned beef tips to the pan with the sautéed mushrooms and onions. This combines all the delicious flavors in one place.

4. Pour in the beef broth, ensuring the beef tips and vegetables are partially submerged.

5. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Then, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-6 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. The broth will reduce slightly, creating a flavorful sauce.

6. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can thicken it with cornstarch. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Gradually add the cornstarch slurry to the simmering beef tips, stirring constantly until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Be careful not to add too much cornstarch at once, as it can cause the sauce to become too thick. Simmer for another minute or two after adding the cornstarch to cook out the raw starch flavor.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when browning the beef tips. Overcrowding will lower the pan temperature, causing the beef to steam rather than brown. Browning is crucial for developing a rich, deep flavor. Work in batches if necessary.
• Use a good quality beef broth. The beef broth is a key component of the sauce, so using a high-quality broth will result in a more flavorful dish.
• For a richer flavor, deglaze the pan after browning the beef tips. Before adding the olive oil for the mushrooms, pour a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar into the pan and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. This will add depth and complexity to the sauce.
• Add a bay leaf to the simmering sauce for extra flavor. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
• To save time, you can use pre-sliced mushrooms and pre-cut onions. However, freshly sliced mushrooms and onions will generally have a better flavor and texture.
• If you don’t have beef tenderloin tips, you can use sirloin tips or stew meat. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as these cuts may require longer simmering to become tender.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these simple beef tips with mushrooms over rice, mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or creamy polenta for a complete and satisfying meal. A side of steamed green beans or a simple salad would also complement the dish nicely.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm the beef tips in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a splash of beef broth or water to prevent the sauce from drying out. The beef tips can also be reheated in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook them, as they can become tough.

For longer storage, you can freeze the beef tips in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	313.8 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	198 g	63%
Total Fat	22.1 g	34%
Saturated Fat	8.6 g	42%
Cholesterol	96.4 mg	32%
Sodium	337.1 mg	14%
Total Carbohydrate	3.2 g	1%
Dietary Fiber	0.8 g	3%
Sugars	1.8 g	7%
Protein	25.1 g	50%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Variations & Substitutions

• For a richer sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or sour cream at the end of cooking. This will make the sauce even more decadent and flavorful.
• To add more vegetables, include sliced bell peppers, carrots, or celery along with the mushrooms and onions.
• For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
• If you don’t have beef broth, you can use chicken broth or vegetable broth instead. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.
• Make it gluten-free by ensuring your beef broth is gluten-free and omitting the cornstarch. The sauce will be slightly thinner, but still flavorful. You can also use a gluten-free thickening agent if desired.
• Add a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce for a deeper, more savory flavor.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use frozen beef tips?
A: Yes, you can use frozen beef tips. Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels before browning to ensure they sear properly.

Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, this recipe can be adapted for a slow cooker. Brown the beef tips as directed, then transfer them to the slow cooker along with the mushrooms, onions, and beef broth. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Q: How do I know when the beef tips are done?
A: The beef tips are done when they are browned on the outside and tender on the inside. They should be easily pierced with a fork.

Q: Can I use dried mushrooms instead of fresh?
A: Yes, you can use dried mushrooms. Rehydrate them in warm water for about 30 minutes before adding them to the pan. Be sure to drain them well before using.

Q: What if I don’t have beef tenderloin tips?
A: You can substitute with sirloin tips or stew meat. However, these cuts may require longer simmering to become tender.

Final Thoughts

This simple beef tips with mushrooms recipe is a testament to the fact that delicious food doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s a versatile dish that can be easily adapted to your own tastes and preferences. I encourage you to give it a try and experience the comforting flavors for yourself. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different vegetables, spices, and thickening agents to create your own unique version. And if you do, I’d love to hear about it! Share your feedback and variations in the comments below. Enjoy!