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 family dinners or special occasions. The rich, savory flavors will warm you up, making it a crowd-pleaser during chilly nights or holiday gatherings. Serve it over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice for a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe uses simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for cooks of all levels.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and beef broth creates a deeply flavorful gravy that enhances the tender beef tips.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy this dish with mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles; it’s adaptable to your family’s preferences.
• Comforting Meal: Perfect for fall and winter evenings, this dish brings warmth and satisfaction to any table.
• One-Pot Wonder: Cook everything in one pot, saving time on cleanup while maximizing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Beef Tips and Gravy, you’ll need some essential tools. Gathering these beforehand will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Silicone spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows you to brown the beef evenly without overcrowding.
• Silicone spatula: This tool is great for deglazing the pan and scraping up flavorful bits without damaging your cookware.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure consistent flavor in your gravy.
• Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients.

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 beef seasoning mix and measure out gravy ingredients before beginning.
• Cut meat into 1-inch cubes, discarding any large pieces of fat.

Step 2: Season the Meat

• Combine beef seasoning and sprinkle it over the meat. Toss to coat.
• Sprinkle flour over the meat and toss again to ensure even coverage.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

• Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the meat in batches; don’t overcrowd the pan. Brown on each side for about 30–45 seconds.
• Transfer browned meat to a plate and repeat with remaining beef. Remember not to cook the beef all the way through as it will finish cooking in the gravy.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pan

• Add ¼ cup apple vinegar to the pan and use a silicone spatula to deglaze by scraping up any brown bits stuck at the bottom.

Step 5: Cook Onions & Garlic

• Let the apple vinegar gently bubble until reduced by half.
• Reduce heat to medium, then add butter and diced onions. Cook until softened (about 5 minutes).
• Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 6: Make the Gravy Base

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

Step 7: Thicken the Gravy

• Combine corn starch with cold water in a bowl.
• Whisk this mixture into the sauce gradually while stirring continuously until you reach your desired thickness.

Step 8: Finish Cooking Beef Tips

• Reduce heat to medium-low and add browned beef along with any juices from the plate into the gravy.
• Cover partially with a lid and cook for about 10–15 minutes until beef is cooked through.

Step 9: Optional Velvety Finish

• For extra richness, swirl in one tablespoon of cold butter at the end—this technique is called “Monter au Beurre.”

Step 10: Serve & Enjoy!

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

How to Serve Beef Tips and Gravy

Beef Tips and Gravy is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or alongside some hearty egg noodles, there are plenty of options to elevate your meal experience.

Over Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy Texture: The rich gravy pairs beautifully with smooth mashed potatoes, soaking into them for added flavor.

With Egg Noodles

• Comforting Combination: Tender egg noodles complement the beef tips, making this a classic comfort food option.

On Rice

• Quick and Easy: Serving over rice creates a satisfying meal that absorbs all the delicious gravy.

In a Sandwich

• Creative Twist: Use leftover Beef Tips and Gravy as a filling for sandwiches or sliders. Add some sautéed onions for extra flavor.

With Crusty Bread

• Perfect for Dipping: Serve with crusty bread to soak up every bit of the savory gravy.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Brighten Up the Dish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme adds a pop of color and freshness to your plate.

How to Perfect Beef Tips and Gravy

Creating the perfect Beef Tips and Gravy requires attention to detail. Here are some essential tips to ensure your dish turns out great every time.

• Choose Quality Meat: Select good quality sirloin tips for tenderness and flavor.

• Don’t Rush Browning: Properly browning the meat enhances flavor through caramelization, so take your time on this step.

• Deglaze the Pan: Use vinegar to deglaze the pan after browning the meat. This captures all those flavorful bits stuck at the bottom.

• Adjust Consistency: If the gravy is too thick or thin, adjust it by adding more broth or cornstarch mixture gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and onions can elevate the taste of your gravy significantly compared to dried options.

• Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving helps flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Beef Tips and Gravy

Pairing side dishes with Beef Tips and Gravy can enhance your dining experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make an excellent base for soaking up gravy.

2. Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans add color and balance out the richness of the dish.

3. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized complements the hearty flavors well.

4. Buttered Corn: Sweet corn provides a nice contrast to savory beef tips, adding both sweetness and texture.

5. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw offers freshness that cuts through the richness of beef gravy.

6. Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits are perfect for sopping up gravy, creating a comforting meal experience.

7. Baked Potatoes: Serve with toppings like sour cream and chives for a satisfying alternative starch option.

8. Crispy Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette can refresh your palate between bites of rich beef tips.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Beef Tips and Gravy can be a delightful experience, but a few common mistakes can affect the final dish. Here’s how to ensure your meal turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the beef adequately can lead to bland flavors. Always coat the meat well with spices before cooking.
• Overcrowding the pan: Adding too much beef at once can cause steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches for that perfect sear.
• Not deglazing the pan: Neglecting to scrape up the brown bits after browning meat misses out on deep flavors. Use vinegar or broth to deglaze for a richer gravy.
• Ignoring the resting time: Cutting into meat too soon can result in loss of juices. Allow the beef to rest briefly before serving for better texture.
• Skipping the butter finish: Omitting the cold butter at the end means missing out on a creamy, rich finish. Swirl in cold butter right before serving for optimal flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before refrigerating for best results.

Freezing Beef Tips and Gravy

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Label with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Beef Tips and Gravy

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm covered for about 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered, in 1-minute intervals until heated through, stirring between intervals.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a saucepan until bubbling, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best cut of beef for Beef Tips and Gravy?

The best cut is sirloin tips because they are tender and flavorful. You can also use other cuts like chuck or round if you prefer.

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

Yes! Simply follow the same steps but combine all ingredients in your Slow Cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

How can I thicken my Beef Tips and Gravy?

Using cornstarch mixed with cold water is effective. Add this mixture gradually while stirring until you reach your desired thickness.

What should I serve with Beef Tips and Gravy?

This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice. Choose your favorite side for a comforting meal!

How do I customize Beef Tips and Gravy?

You can add vegetables like mushrooms or carrots for extra nutrition. Adjust seasonings based on your taste preferences as well!

Final Thoughts

Beef Tips and Gravy is a classic comfort food that warms both body and soul. Its versatility makes it perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an inviting meal with friends. Feel free to customize it by adding extra veggies or adjusting spices to suit your palate!