What Are No Peek Beef Tips?
No Peek Beef Tips are chunks of beef (typically stew meat or sirloin tips) that are baked in the oven for several hours with a blend of soups, seasonings, and optional additions like onions or mushrooms. The name comes from the technique—after sealing the dish with foil or a tight lid, it’s crucial not to lift the cover during baking. This ensures the beef cooks gently and evenly, locking in moisture and flavor for irresistibly tender results.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hands-off cooking – just mix, cover, and bake
- Super tender meat – no need for marinating or browning
- Comforting and cozy – perfect for chilly nights or Sunday dinners
- Versatile – serve over rice, mashed potatoes, pasta, or even crusty bread
- Crowd-pleaser – everyone loves a hearty beef dish with gravy!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 to 2 1/2 pounds beef stew meat or sirloin tips
- 1 packet onion soup mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) beef broth (or water + bouillon)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Optional: 1/2 cup red wine for richness
- Optional: 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make No Peek Beef Tips
✅ 1. Prep the Ingredients
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine onion soup mix, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce (and wine, if using).
✅ 2. Assemble the Dish
- Place beef tips in a 9×13-inch baking dish or a Dutch oven.
- Pour the soup mixture over the beef. Add mushrooms or onions, if desired.
- Stir gently to coat all the beef.
✅ 3. Seal Tightly
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil (or use a lid if using a Dutch oven).
- Do not open or peek while it bakes. Trust the process!
✅ 4. Bake Low and Slow
- Bake for 2.5 to 3 hours without opening the oven.
- The beef will be incredibly tender and the sauce rich and thickened.
✅ 5. Serve and Savor
- Stir the beef gently before serving.
- Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, buttered noodles, or alongside crusty bread.
Tips for Perfect Beef Tips
- Use quality beef – sirloin tips yield especially tender results.
- Don’t peek! – lifting the foil lets out moisture and heat, affecting tenderness.
- Add veggies – mushrooms, onions, or even baby carrots pair beautifully.
- Thicker gravy? – Stir in a cornstarch slurry at the end and let it sit for 5–10 minutes.
Variations to Try
- Add fresh herbs – like thyme or rosemary for aromatic depth.
- Make it spicy – stir in a bit of chili sauce or hot pepper flakes.
- Swap the soup – try golden mushroom or French onion soup for a flavor twist.
- Slow cooker version – cook on low for 6–8 hours for equally tender results.
Storage and Reheating
- Store: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
A No-Fuss Classic for Any Occasion
No Peek Beef Tips are the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table. With minimal prep and a cozy payoff, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, lazy Sundays, or whenever you crave hearty comfort food. The “no peek” method ensures maximum tenderness, and the savory gravy makes every bite irresistible.
Give this retro favorite a try and watch it become a new family staple!