This recipe for Easy No Peek Beef Tips is a true dinner winner! Juicy beef simmered in a tasty sauce makes for a meal everyone will love.
I like to serve these beef tips over rice or noodles, so every bite is packed with flavor. Plus, who doesn’t love a no-peek method? Just set it and forget it! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: For the best flavor and tenderness, use beef sirloin or stew meat. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can try tender cuts like filet mignon or ribeye. Chuck roast also works well, just cut it into smaller pieces.
Onion: A medium onion adds great flavor. If you’re not a fan of onions, you can use shallots or skip it entirely. Chopped green onions can also be added at the end for a fresh taste.
Garlic: Minced garlic enhances the dish’s flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, you can use garlic powder instead—about 1 teaspoon will do.
Dry Onion Soup Mix: This mix is the star of the show for flavor. If you’re trying to avoid processed foods, you can make your own blend with onion powder, dried herbs, and seasonings.
Beef Broth: Use low-sodium beef broth for less salt. Vegetable broth is a good alternative if you want something lighter yet still packed with flavor.
How Do You Ensure the Beef is Tender Without Peeking?
The no peek method is key to make sure the beef stays tender and juicy. The slow cooking allows the meat to break down and become flavorful. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by browning the beef in batches. This step builds a great flavor base, so give it the time it needs!
- After adding the broth and seasoning, bring it to a gentle simmer and immediately cover with a lid. This traps all the steam and helps tenderize the meat.
- Once you lower the heat, set a timer for 1.5 to 2 hours and resist the urge to lift the lid. This keeps the moisture in!
After the time is up, check the meat. It should be fork-tender. If you prefer a thicker sauce, make sure to add your cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking.
How to Make Easy No Peek Beef Tips for Tender Flavor
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Tips:
- 2 pounds beef sirloin or stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 packet (about 1 oz) dry onion soup mix
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 1.5 to 2 hours of cooking time. It’s as simple as browning your beef, then letting it simmer without peeking—perfect for a hands-off dinner. Just let the flavors develop, and you’ll have tender and flavorful beef tips ready to serve!.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Start by heating the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add your beef tips in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Brown the meat on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and stir it in for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. This will add a wonderful flavor base for your dish!
3. Combine Ingredients:
Return the browned beef to the skillet. Add the beef broth, water, dry onion soup mix, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce if you’re using it. Stir everything well to combine. This will create a savory sauce that you’ll love.
4. Simmer Without Peeking:
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the skillet with a lid, reducing the heat to low. Here’s the key—do NOT peek or stir for about 1.5 to 2 hours! This allows the beef to become very tender and flavorful.
5. Prepare the Sauce:
Once the cooking time is up, uncover the skillet. You can choose to discard any excess liquid if you prefer a thicker sauce, or keep it to keep the beef tips moist and delicious. If you want to thicken the sauce, mix the cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl to make a slurry, and then stir it into the beef. Cook on medium heat for about 3-5 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
6. Season and Serve:
Finally, season your beef tips with salt and pepper to taste. Serve them hot over cooked rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes for a comforting dinner. Enjoy your delicious Easy No Peek Beef Tips!
FAQ for Easy No Peek Beef Tips
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Recipe?
It’s best to use thawed beef for even cooking. If you only have frozen beef, make sure to defrost it in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method, where you place it in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water until thawed. Never cook from frozen in this no-peek format, as it can affect cooking time and tenderness.
What Can I Substitute for the Dry Onion Soup Mix?
If you’re looking to avoid packaged mixes, you can create your own by combining 1 onion finely chopped, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 tablespoon dried parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This homemade mix will still give you that great flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover beef tips in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. You can add a splash of beef broth or water to keep them moist while reheating.
Can I Make This Dish in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic as instructed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method can make the beef even more tender!