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Slow-Cooker Beef Tips in Red Wine Sauce

If you’re after cozy, hearty comfort food that’s bursting with flavor and a breeze to prepare, this slow-cooker beef tips in red wine sauce recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. The beef is simmered to perfection in a rich wine sauce, turning incredibly tender while soaking up savory herbs and deep red wine gravy in every bite.

Whether you’re serving it over creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or buttery egg noodles, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, hosting friends, or celebrating special occasions. And with the magic of a slow cooker, it does most of the work for you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This is truly the ultimate comfort food—rich, hearty, and deeply satisfying.
The slow-cooked beef is melt-in-your-mouth tender, absorbing layers of flavor from garlic, herbs, and bold red wine.
Perfect for a cozy night in or a romantic date night at home.
Did we mention that slow-cooked beef tips in a rich red wine sauce will make your kitchen smell divine? It’s an effortless dish that tastes like it was prepared in a classy bistro.
This recipe fits perfectly into your busy schedule, making it an ideal option for special events or simply whenever you’re craving a hearty meal.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, you’ll achieve restaurant-quality flavor with just a few simple ingredients.

Ingredients

4 pounds boneless beef chuck, rump, or bottom round cut into 2-inch cubes
2 tablespoons oil (olive or vegetable)
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 sprigs fresh thyme
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 teaspoons brown sugar
1 1/2 cups beef broth
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1 sprig thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon granulated garlic powder
1 onion, sliced
2 to 3 carrots, cleaned and left whole or sliced
1 teaspoon dried Italian herb seasoning
1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons cold water (optional, for thickening)

Instructions

Start by patting the beef cubes dry with paper towels. This will help them brown nicely.
Sprinkle the beef with salt and pepper for seasoning.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the oil.
Once hot, add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides for about 7-8 minutes, making sure to flip them occasionally.
To add flavor, pour in some red wine and scrape the bottom of the pan to incorporate all those delicious browned bits. Let it simmer for a few minutes.
Prepare your slow cooker by placing the cleaned carrots and onion at the bottom. Feel free to add mushrooms or sliced celery for even more flavor.
Layer the browned beef tips over the vegetables in the slow cooker.
In a separate bowl, whisk together red wine, beef broth, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, and the dried herbs until well combined.
Pour this mixture over the beef and vegetables in the slow cooker.
Set your slow cooker to LOW for 7-8 hours or on HIGH for 4-5 hours.
About 30 minutes before serving, mix the cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry. Stir it into the slow cooker and let the sauce thicken uncovered.
Finally, scoop out those tender beef tips and generously pour the sauce over the top before serving. Enjoy!

Tips and Suggestions for Beef Tips in Red Wine Sauce

Always opt for a good-quality dry red wine—steer clear of anything labeled “cooking wine.”
For a tangy twist, try using balsamic vinegar instead of Worcestershire sauce.
If you’d prefer an alcohol-free option, simply substitute the wine for extra beef broth and add 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days, or you can freeze them for up to 3 months.
Patience is key! Don’t rush the simmering time—slow cooking offsets the collagen in the beef, making it tender.
This dish freezes exceptionally well. Just ensure it’s in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
When refrigerating, use a covered container to store leftovers for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.

What to Serve with Beef Tips in Red Wine

Creamy mashed potatoes
Buttered egg noodles
Garlic-roasted cauliflower
Crusty Italian bread
Pair with a glass of the same red wine used in the sauce for the best flavor experience.
Baked potatoes as a delightful option
Creamy polenta for a rustic touch
Garlic herb rice for a lighter alternative
And for a low-carb version, try creamy cauliflower mash!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this without searing the beef?

While it’s possible to skip the searing step, you’ll miss out on adding depth to the flavor. It’s definitely worth taking the extra few minutes!

What’s the best wine for cooking beef tips?

A dry red such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot works beautifully—avoid sweeter varieties, as they can alter the taste.

Can I prep this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare all the ingredients the night before and refrigerate them. Then, just toss everything into the slow cooker in the morning!