Prepare the Crockpot:
Brown the beef tips in a skillet over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of oil if needed.
Once browned, transfer the beef to the crockpot.
Season the Beef:
In a small bowl, whisk together beef broth, soy sauce, water, tomato paste, brown sugar, garlic, thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Pour the seasoning mixture over the beef in the crockpot.
Add Noodles:
Layer cooked noodles on top of the beef.
Cook:
Set the crockpot to low and let it cook for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
Serve:
Serve the beef and noodles alongside your favorite sides, such as crusty bread or a fresh green salad.
Tips and Variations
Shortcut: Use pre-cooked beef tips or substitute with flank steak for a quicker cook time.
Vegetarian Option: Replace beef tips with mushrooms or jackfruit for a meat-free version.
Low-Carb: Use keto-friendly noodles or spiralized vegetables instead of traditional pasta.
Dietary Considerations
Vegetarian/Vegan: Substitute beef tips with plant-based proteins like lentils or chickpeas.
Allergies: Use gluten-free soy sauce and noodles for those with gluten sensitivities.
Low-Carb: Opt for zoodles (zucchini noodles) or cauliflower pasta.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcooking Beef: Ensure the beef is not overcooked to avoid toughness.
Under-Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning before cooking to ensure the dish is well-flavored.
Serving Suggestions
Crusty Bread: Ideal for mopping up the rich sauce.
Green Salad: Balances the meal with fresh greens.
Steamed Vegetables: Adds a healthy, nutritious element.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerate: Allow the dish to cool, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Pour into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.