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2 lbs beef stew meat or sirloin tips, cubed
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1 packet onion soup mix
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1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
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1 cup beef broth
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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Optional: 1 small onion, sliced; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
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Cooking spray or oil (for greasing the dish)
Preparation
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Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a large covered casserole dish.
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In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, onion soup mix, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir until smooth.
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Place the beef tips (and onions or mushrooms, if using) into the baking dish.
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Pour the soup mixture evenly over the beef. Stir gently to coat all the pieces.
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Cover tightly with foil or a fitted lid. This is key — do not open or peek while baking!
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Bake for 2.5 to 3 hours, until the beef is melt-in-your-mouth tender and the sauce is rich and thick.
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Remove from oven and give it a quick stir. Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
Serving and Storage Tips
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Best served piping hot with a side of buttery mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or crusty bread to soak up the gravy.
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Add a green veggie side like peas or green beans for a balanced plate.
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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
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Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
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Freezes well for up to 2 months — thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.
Variants
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Creamy twist: Stir in ½ cup of sour cream or cream cheese at the end for a rich, tangy finish.
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Red wine version: Replace ½ cup of beef broth with dry red wine for a deeper flavor profile.
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Slow cooker version: Cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.
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Spicy kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.
FAQ
Q: Why can’t I peek while it bakes?
A: Opening the foil or lid releases heat and moisture, which disrupts the slow braising process. Keeping it sealed ensures tender, juicy beef and a rich, flavorful sauce.
Q: Can I use fresh mushrooms and onions?
A: Absolutely! They add extra depth and texture to the dish — just slice and mix them in with the beef before baking.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the dish and refrigerate it (uncooked) for up to 24 hours, then bake when ready. Great for meal prep!
Q: What’s the best cut of beef to use?
A: Stew meat, sirloin tips, or even chuck roast cut into cubes work well. The long bake time makes even tougher cuts deliciously tender.
Q: Is this dish gluten-free?
A: Not by default — most onion soup mixes and canned soups contain gluten. Use gluten-free alternatives to make it safe for those with sensitivities.