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 family dinners, special occasions, or any chilly night. The rich flavors of the beef combined with a savory gravy create a dish that’s not only satisfying but also versatile. Serve it over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice for a meal that will warm your heart and soul.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and slow-cooked beef creates an irresistible taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles—perfect for any occasion.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pot.
• Comfort Food Classic: Ideal for cozy family dinners or special gatherings, this dish satisfies everyone.

Tools and Preparation

To make Beef Tips and Gravy, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures smooth cooking and perfect results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Silicone spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: This provides enough space to brown the beef properly without overcrowding.
• Silicone spatula: Ideal for deglazing the pan without scratching the surface.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure consistent flavor every time.

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

Begin by combining the beef seasoning mix and measuring out all gravy ingredients before you start cooking. This will streamline your process.

Step 2: Cut the Meat

Cut the sirloin tips into 1-inch cubes. Discard any large pieces of fat to ensure a leaner dish.

Step 3: Season the Beef

Sprinkle the prepared seasoning over the meat. Toss to coat evenly. Then add flour over the meat and toss again to absorb moisture.

Step 4: Brown the Beef

Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add beef in batches:
Don’t overcrowd the pan; this allows for proper browning.
Brown each side for about 30–45 seconds.
Transfer browned beef to a plate and repeat until all meat is cooked partially.

Step 5: Deglaze the Pan

Add ¼ cup of apple vinegar to the pan. Use a silicone spatula to scrape up any browned bits on the bottom—this adds fantastic flavor!

Step 6: Cook Onions

Allow vinegar to reduce by half while gently bubbling. Reduce heat to medium and add butter along with diced onions. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

Step 7: Add Garlic

Add minced garlic to the onions and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 8: Combine Gravy Ingredients

Add all remaining gravy ingredients except for cornstarch mixture. Bring this mixture to a boil.

Step 9: Thicken Gravy

Whisk together cornstarch and cold water in a separate bowl. Gradually whisk this into your boiling sauce:
Stir continuously until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 10: Cook Beef Through

Reduce heat to medium-low. Return browned beef along with its juices back into the skillet:
Cover partially with lid and cook for an additional 10–15 minutes until beef is fully cooked through.

Step 11: Finish with Butter (Optional)

For an extra touch of richness, swirl in 1 tablespoon of cold butter at the end using Monter au Beurre technique for velvety gravy.

Step 12: Serve

Enjoy your delicious Beef Tips and Gravy over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice!

How to Serve Beef Tips and Gravy

Beef Tips and Gravy is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with various sides. Whether you want a comforting meal or something quick, this dish can be enjoyed in multiple ways. Below are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes provide a perfect base for the rich gravy, soaking up all the delicious flavors.

Over Egg Noodles

• Tender egg noodles complement the beef well, making each bite satisfying and hearty.

Served on Rice

• Steaming white or brown rice offers a light texture that balances the savory gravy beautifully.

In a Sandwich

• For a fun twist, try serving Beef Tips and Gravy in a crusty roll for a tasty sandwich option.

With Crusty Bread

• A slice of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the rich gravy, adding an extra layer of comfort to your meal.

As Part of a Casserole

• Combine leftover beef tips with vegetables and cheese for a delicious casserole that’s great for meal prep!

How to Perfect Beef Tips and Gravy

Achieving perfect Beef Tips and Gravy requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Use Quality Meat: Choose fresh sirloin tips for the best flavor and tenderness; they make a significant difference in your dish.

• Don’t Rush Browning: Allow the meat to brown properly in batches; this enhances the flavor through caramelization.

• Deglaze with Care: When using vinegar, let it reduce properly to capture all those flavorful bits stuck to the pan.

• Adjust Consistency Wisely: Add corn starch mixture gradually while stirring until you reach your desired thickness—too much can make it gummy.

• Taste as You Go: Always taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process for well-balanced flavors.

• Finish with Cold Butter: Adding cold butter at the end adds richness and creates a velvety finish to your gravy.

Best Side Dishes for Beef Tips and Gravy

Pairing side dishes with Beef Tips and Gravy can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: This buttery, garlic-infused bread is ideal for scooping up gravy.
2. Steamed Vegetables: Fresh steamed veggies add color and nutrients, balancing out the richness of the beef.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The earthy flavor of Brussels sprouts complements the savory notes of the dish perfectly.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with the warm beef tips.
5. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac ‘n’ cheese adds comfort and indulgence alongside your beef tips.
6. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus offers a sophisticated touch that pairs well with beef.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Beef Tips and Gravy, some common mistakes can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to properly season the beef before cooking can lead to bland meat. Always ensure you coat the beef well with your seasoning mix for maximum flavor.
• Overcrowding the pan: Adding too much beef at once can cause steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches to achieve a nice sear on each piece.
• Not deglazing the pan: Ignoring the brown bits left in the pan means missing out on rich flavors. Use vinegar or broth to scrape these bits up, enhancing your gravy’s taste.
• Using too high heat: Cooking at overly high temperatures can result in tough meat. Maintain medium-high heat for optimal browning without overcooking.
• Rushing the cooking time: Cooking beef tips too quickly can leave them chewy. Allow them to simmer slowly in the gravy for tender results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Beef Tips and Gravy in an airtight container.
• It will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Beef Tips and Gravy

• Freeze in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Beef Tips and Gravy

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil to reheat evenly.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Beef Tips and Gravy.

Can I make Beef Tips and Gravy in a Slow Cooker?

Yes! You can easily adapt this recipe for a Slow Cooker. Brown the beef first, then add all ingredients to the Slow Cooker and cook on low for about 6-8 hours.

What should I serve with Beef Tips and Gravy?

Beef Tips and Gravy pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice. They also go well with crusty bread!

How do I thicken my Beef Tips and Gravy?

To thicken your gravy, mix cornstarch with cold water and whisk it into the sauce while it’s boiling. Stir until you reach your desired thickness.

Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?

Absolutely! While sirloin tips are great, you can also use chuck roast or flank steak. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

Final Thoughts

Beef Tips and Gravy is a comforting classic that brings warmth to any table. Its versatility allows for numerous serving options, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. Feel free to customize it with your favorite spices or veggies!