Beef Tips and Gravy

Learn how to make Beef Tips and Gravy from scratch in one pot on the stove top or in the Slow Cooker! This classic comfort food is perfect for cozy dinners with family or friends. The rich flavors of tender beef simmered in a savory gravy create a dish that’s hard to resist. Whether you serve it over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, making Beef Tips and Gravy is straightforward, even for beginner cooks.
• Flavorful Comfort Food: The combination of spices and tender beef creates a rich and satisfying dish that warms the soul.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfectly pairs with mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles, making it adaptable for any meal preference.
• One-Pot Wonder: Cook everything in one pot for easy cleanup while still delivering maximum flavor.
• Great for Meal Prep: This dish stores well, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

Before getting started with your Beef Tips and Gravy, gather your tools and prepare your ingredients. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Silicone spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for browning beef and simmering the gravy in one pan.
• Silicone spatula: Great for deglazing the pan without scratching its surface.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accuracy in ingredient quantities for consistent results.

Ingredients

Learn how to make Beef Tips and Gravy from scratch in one pot on the stove top or in the Slow Cooker! This classic comfort food is great with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice.

Ingredients:
– 1 ½ lbs. sirloin tips
– 3 tablespoons flour
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– ½ teaspoon EACH: salt, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, paprika
– ¼ cup dry red apple vinegar (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small yellow onion (diced)
– 3 cloves garlic (minced)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 beef bouillon cube
– 1 ½ teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
– ¼ teaspoon EACH: dried thyme, dried rosemary
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– 3 tablespoons corn starch + 1/4 cup cold water

How to Make Beef Tips and Gravy

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

• Combine the beef seasoning mix and measure out all gravy ingredients before you begin cooking.
• Cut meat into 1-inch cubes and discard any large pieces of fat.

Step 2: Season the Meat

• Sprinkle the beef seasoning over the meat cubes. Toss to coat thoroughly.
• Add flour over the meat cubes and toss again until well coated.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

• Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add meat in batches without overcrowding the pan. Brown on each side for 30–45 seconds until lightly seared.
• Transfer browned meat to a plate. Repeat until all beef is browned but not fully cooked.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pan

• Pour in ¼ cup of apple vinegar. Use a silicone spatula to scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan—this adds fantastic flavor.
• Allow vinegar to bubble gently until reduced by half.

Step 5: Sauté Onions and Garlic

• Reduce heat to medium; add butter and diced onions. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
• Stir in minced garlic; cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 6: Add Remaining Ingredients

• Mix all remaining gravy ingredients into the skillet except for the cornstarch mixture. Bring everything to a boil.

Step 7: Thicken the Gravy

• Combine cornstarch with cold water. Whisk into sauce gradually while stirring continuously until desired thickness is achieved.

Step 8: Cook the Beef Thoroughly

• Reduce heat to medium-low; return beef along with juices from the plate back into the skillet.
• Cover partially with a lid; cook for an additional 10–15 minutes until beef is fully cooked through.

Step 9: Finish with Butter (Optional)

• For extra richness, swirl in 1 tablespoon of cold butter at the end—a technique known as “Monter au Beurre.”

Step 10: Serve

Serve your Beef Tips and Gravy hot over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice! Enjoy this hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

How to Serve Beef Tips and Gravy

Beef Tips and Gravy is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides. Serving it correctly enhances its flavor and presentation. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Over Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes absorb the savory gravy, creating a comforting dish that warms the soul.

With Egg Noodles

• Tender egg noodles provide a perfect base for the rich beef tips and gravy, making each bite satisfying.

On Rice

• Fluffy rice serves as an excellent canvas for the beef tips, soaking up all the delicious flavors of the gravy.

As a Sandwich

• For a hearty lunch, serve beef tips in a crusty roll topped with extra gravy. This makes for an indulgent sandwich option.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Accompanying your beef tips with steamed veggies adds color and balance to your plate, providing a nutritious touch.

In a Casserole

• Combine beef tips with pasta or potatoes in a casserole dish topped with cheese for a baked delight that’s easy to share.

How to Perfect Beef Tips and Gravy

Cooking beef tips to perfection requires attention and care. Here are some helpful tips to ensure great results every time you make this dish.

• Choose Quality Meat: Select fresh sirloin or tender cuts for the best flavor and texture in your beef tips.

• Don’t Rush Browning: Take your time when browning the meat. This step develops deep flavors that enhance your gravy.

• Deglaze Properly: Use vinegar or broth to deglaze the pan after browning, ensuring you capture all those flavorful bits stuck to the bottom.

• Adjust Consistency: If your gravy is too thick, whisk in more broth; if too thin, add cornstarch mixed with cold water until desired thickness is reached.

• Let It Simmer: Allowing the dish to simmer helps meld all the flavors together, resulting in a richer taste.

• Finish with Butter: Swirling in cold butter at the end gives your gravy a glossy finish and enhances its richness.

Best Side Dishes for Beef Tips and Gravy

To complement Beef Tips and Gravy, consider serving it alongside these delightful side dishes:

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up extra gravy while adding delicious flavor.

2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy sprouts offer a slightly bitter contrast that balances the richness of beef tips.

3. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, making it an excellent counterpoint to hearty beef.

4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob brings vibrant color and sweetness that pairs beautifully with savory dishes.

5. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes provide another starchy option for enjoying the rich gravy.

6. Green Beans Almondine: This classic side features green beans tossed with almonds for added texture and nutty flavor.

7. Mashed Cauliflower: A lighter alternative to mashed potatoes, this dish provides creaminess without extra carbs.

8. Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds freshness and crunch, balancing out the heartiness of the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Beef Tips and Gravy can be easy, but avoiding common mistakes ensures a perfect dish every time. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your beef properly can lead to bland flavors. Always coat the meat with seasoning before cooking for maximum taste.
• Overcrowding the pan: Adding too much beef at once can cause steaming instead of browning. Cook the meat in batches to achieve that perfect sear.
• Neglecting to deglaze: Not deglazing the pan after browning the beef means missing out on flavor. Use vinegar or broth to scrape up those delicious bits stuck to the bottom.
• Cooking at high heat throughout: High heat can toughen the meat. Start with medium-high heat for browning, then lower it for simmering in gravy for tender results.
• Not letting it simmer long enough: Rushing through cooking means tougher beef tips. Allow enough time for them to become tender in the gravy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Beef Tips and Gravy

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Beef Tips and Gravy

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover and heat for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, adding a splash of broth if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Beef Tips and Gravy:

What is Beef Tips and Gravy?

Beef Tips and Gravy is a comforting dish made from tender pieces of beef cooked in a rich gravy. It’s often served with mashed potatoes or noodles.

How do I make Beef Tips and Gravy tender?

To ensure tender beef tips, avoid overcooking during browning, and allow them to simmer gently in the gravy until fully cooked.

Can I use other cuts of beef?

Yes, while sirloin tips are recommended, you can also use cuts like chuck roast or flank steak for a different flavor profile.

What should I serve with Beef Tips and Gravy?

This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. You can also add steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Is there a slow cooker version of Beef Tips and Gravy?

Absolutely! You can easily adapt this recipe for the slow cooker by browning the meat first and then cooking it low and slow with all ingredients added.

Final Thoughts

Beef Tips and Gravy is an incredible comfort food that’s easy to customize according to your preferences. Whether you serve it over creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings. Try adding your favorite herbs or even some vegetables to make it your own!