No-Peek Beef Tips with Tender, Juicy Flavor

No-Peek Beef Tips are a cozy dish full of flavor and tenderness. With simple ingredients like beef and rich gravy, they cook in the oven while you take a break!

I love how this meal does the work for me. Just pop it in the oven and relax! It’s perfect for busy days when I still want something comforting and yummy. 😋

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Beef Tips: Use a tender cut like sirloin or chuck for the best flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can substitute with lean beef stew meat. I’m a fan of using chuck because it gets so tender when cooked slow!

Red Wine: This adds depth, but you can skip it or replace it with more beef broth if desired. I sometimes use a splash of apple cider vinegar for a different flavor kick; just adjust the amount to keep it balanced.

Cream of Mushroom Soup: If you’re avoiding mushrooms, try cream of chicken or even a homemade white sauce. I prefer the mushroom soup for its rich taste, but go with what you like!

Dried Italian Seasoning: Feel free to swap this with your favorite herbs like thyme or rosemary. I’ve found that a mix of fresh and dried herbs can really brighten the dish.

How Do You Achieve Tender Beef in the Oven?

The key to tender beef tips is low and slow cooking! This method allows the connective tissues to break down, leading to that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Here’s how to do it:

• Brown your beef well: This enhances the flavor and forms a tasty crust. Don’t rush this step!
• Cover tightly: Use a lid or foil to keep the steam in. This creates a moist environment ideal for tender beef.
• Cook low and slow: Aim for around 2 to 2.5 hours at 325°F, checking that the beef is fork-tender before serving.

Following these steps will ensure your beef comes out juicy and delicious every time!

No-Peek Beef Tips with Tender, Juicy Flavor

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 2 pounds beef tips or stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with extra beef broth)
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning or herbs of choice
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of beef soup)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (optional, for thickening)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This hearty dish takes about 15 minutes to prep and then about 2 to 2 ½ hours to cook in the oven. So, you can sip on a drink or relax while it simmers away and fills your home with delicious aromas!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This will ensure it’s ready for the beef tips!

2. Brown the Beef:

In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef tips in batches, making sure to brown them on all sides. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables:

In the same pot, add the chopped onion, and sauté until it’s softened and slightly translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it smells amazing!

4. Combine Ingredients:

Return the browned beef tips to the pot. Pour in the beef broth, and if you’re using it, the red wine. Add the Worcestershire sauce and soy sauce, and give everything a good stir to mix it all together.

5. Season the Mixture:

Next, sprinkle in the dried Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Stir again to combine everything evenly.

6. Cover Tightly:

Now, cover the pot firmly with its lid or use aluminum foil to create a “no-peek” cooking environment. This helps keep all that juicy goodness in!

7. Time to Bake:

Place the covered pot in your preheated oven and let it cook for about 2 to 2 ½ hours. You’re aiming for the beef to be super tender—check when it’s fork-tender!

8. Add Creamy Goodness:

Once done, take the pot out of the oven. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup until it’s fully mixed for that creamy consistency.

9. Thicken the Sauce (if needed):

If you like a thicker sauce, return the pot to the stove. Slowly stir in the cornstarch slurry over medium heat, cooking until the sauce thickens to your liking!

10. Serve and Enjoy:

Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a splash of color. Serve your tender, juicy beef tips hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for a comforting meal. Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions about No-Peek Beef Tips

Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef for This Recipe?

Absolutely! While beef tips are great, you can also use cuts like chuck roast or sirloin. Just make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces. Chuck roast is particularly good as it becomes very tender when slow-cooked.

Can I Make This Recipe Without Wine?

Yes, you can easily skip the wine! Simply replace the red wine with an equal amount of extra beef broth or add a splash of vinegar for extra flavor. It will still turn out delicious!

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, just warm them gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.

Can I Freeze This Dish?

Yes! No-Peek Beef Tips freeze well. Let them cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for the best results!