This slow cooker 5-ingredient Amish parsnip beef is the kind of cozy supper that makes the whole house feel settled and cared for. Parsnips turn tender and lightly sweet as they cook around the beef, soaking up all the savory juices for a simple, hearty meal with old-fashioned comfort. It is a wonderful recipe for busy days because everything goes into the slow cooker with very little fuss, and the result tastes like something you worked on all afternoon.
Serve this beef and parsnips with buttered egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or a slice of warm crusty bread to catch the extra juices. A simple green bean side, steamed peas, or a crisp salad helps balance the richness, and for a Sunday-style dinner, I like to finish the table with applesauce or a small dish of pickles.
Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Amish Parsnip Beef
Servings: 6
Ingredients
2 1/2 to 3 pounds beef tri-tip roast
2 pounds parsnips, peeled and cut into large chunks
1 packet onion soup mix
1 cup beef broth
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
Directions
1. Lightly coat the inside of your slow cooker with nonstick spray if desired. Place the beef tri-tip roast in the center, then arrange the peeled parsnip chunks around the roast.
2. In a small bowl, stir together the onion soup mix, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce until combined.
3. Pour the broth mixture evenly over the beef and parsnips. Cover and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours, until the beef is tender and the parsnips are soft.
4. Transfer the beef to a cutting board and let it rest for 10 minutes. Slice against the grain, then serve with the tender parsnips and spoon some of the cooking juices over everything.
Variations & Tips
For extra savory flavor: If you have a few extra minutes, sear the tri-tip in a hot skillet before adding it to the slow cooker. This is not necessary, but it gives the beef a deeper flavor and richer color.
For picky eaters: Cut the parsnips into slightly smaller pieces so they soften more and become easier to serve alongside the sliced beef. Their sweetness mellows nicely during cooking, which can make them more appealing for children.
To stretch the meal: Serve the beef over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles so none of the juices go to waste. Leftover sliced beef also makes a lovely next-day sandwich with a little warmed gravy spooned over the top.
For a fuller vegetable mix: Add peeled carrots or onion wedges around the roast along with the parsnips if you do not mind going beyond the strict five-ingredient approach. It makes the slow cooker even more colorful and turns the meal into a complete one-pot dinner.