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 and special occasions alike. With its rich flavors and tender beef, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Beef Tips and Gravy recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
• One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks in one pot, which means less cleanup and more time enjoying your meal.
• Versatile Pairing: Serve it over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice to suit any preference or occasion.
• Comforting Flavor: The rich gravy and tender beef create a deliciously hearty meal that warms you up on chilly days.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is a hit with kids and adults alike, making it perfect for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious Beef Tips and Gravy, you’ll need some essential tools. These will help ensure your cooking process is smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for browning the beef and simmering the gravy all in one pan.
• Silicone spatula: Perfect for deglazing the pan without scratching it, ensuring you get all that flavorful fond.
• Measuring cups & spoons: Helps achieve precise ingredient measurements for consistent results 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.

Main 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 Beef

• Combine beef seasoning ingredients and sprinkle them over the meat. Toss to coat evenly.
• Sprinkle flour over the meat and toss again to ensure an even coating.

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 each side for about 30–45 seconds.
• Transfer cooked beef to a plate. Repeat with remaining meat without cooking it all the way through.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pan

• Add ¼ cup of apple vinegar to the skillet. Use a silicone spatula to deglaze by scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

Step 5: Cook Onions and Garlic

• Let apple vinegar bubble gently until reduced by half. Then lower heat to medium.
• Add butter and diced onions; cook until softened (about 5 minutes).
• Stir in minced garlic; cook for an additional minute.

Step 6: Create the Gravy Base

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

Step 7: Thicken the Gravy

• In a bowl, combine corn starch with cold water. Whisk into the sauce slowly while stirring continuously until desired thickness is reached.

Step 8: Finish Cooking

• Reduce heat to medium-low; add browned beef along with any juices from the plate. Cook covered partially for about 10–15 minutes until beef is cooked through.

Step 9: Optional Finishing Touch

• For added richness, swirl in 1 tablespoon of cold butter at the end—a technique called “Monter au Beurre” that gives sauces a smooth finish.

Step 10: Serve

Serve your delicious Beef Tips and Gravy over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice for a comforting meal everyone will love!

How to Serve Beef Tips and Gravy

Beef Tips and Gravy is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with various sides. Whether you prefer a classic comfort food experience or want to mix things up, there are plenty of delicious ways to enjoy this hearty meal.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic choice. The rich gravy complements the potatoes perfectly, creating a comforting plate.

Over Egg Noodles

• Egg noodles provide a delightful texture that absorbs the flavors of the gravy, making each bite satisfying.

On Rice

• Serving beef tips over rice creates a filling meal. The gravy seeps into the rice, enhancing its flavor and making for a delicious combination.

In a Sandwich

• For a unique twist, serve the beef tips in crusty bread or rolls. Top with extra gravy for a mouthwatering sandwich that’s perfect for lunch.

With Bread Rolls

• Soft bread rolls can be used to soak up the gravy. They’re great for mopping up every bit of sauce left on your plate.

In a Casserole

• Incorporate leftover beef tips into a casserole with vegetables and cheese for an easy next-day meal that’s just as tasty.

How to Perfect Beef Tips and Gravy

Perfecting Beef Tips and Gravy involves attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Choose Quality Meat: Select fresh sirloin tips for better flavor and tenderness.
• Don’t Rush Browning: Take your time browning the meat; this adds depth to the overall taste through caramelization.
• Use Fresh Spices: Fresh spices amplify flavors. Consider using them instead of older ones that may have lost potency.
• Deglaze Properly: Scrape up all those brown bits after browning the meat; they add essential flavor to your gravy.
• Adjust Consistency: If your gravy is too thick, add more broth; if it’s too thin, continue simmering until it thickens.
• Finish with Cold Butter: Adding cold butter at the end gives your gravy a rich, velvety finish that enhances its overall appeal.

Best Side Dishes for Beef Tips and Gravy

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

1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes – Rich and buttery, these potatoes are ideal for soaking up all that delicious gravy.
2. Steamed Green Beans – Their crispness adds contrast to the hearty beef, balancing the meal nicely.
3. Roasted Carrots – Sweet roasted carrots provide a lovely complement to the savory notes of beef tips.
4. Buttered Corn – Sweet corn enhances flavor profiles while adding vibrant color to your plate.
5. Garlic Bread – Perfect for sopping up extra gravy; garlic bread adds an aromatic touch to your meal.
6. Baked Potatoes – Fluffy baked potatoes can be topped with gravy, offering another way to enjoy this dish.
7. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness that contrasts well with rich beef tips.
8. Quinoa Salad – This healthy option provides nuttiness and texture that works well alongside savory beef tips.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Overcooking the beef: Not browning the meat enough can result in tough beef. Always sear the beef until it’s just browned on all sides before adding it to the gravy.
• Skipping the deglazing step: Failing to deglaze the pan means missing out on rich flavors. Always use vinegar or broth to scrape up those tasty brown bits after browning the meat.
• Not measuring spices accurately: Too much or too little seasoning can ruin your dish. Use measuring spoons for accuracy, especially with powerful spices.
• Ignoring the resting time: Serving immediately after cooking can lead to dry beef. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to keep it juicy.
• Using low-quality broth: A bland broth results in a bland gravy. Opt for high-quality beef broth or homemade stock for better flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Beef Tips and Gravy

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• Best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Beef Tips and Gravy

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals at medium power, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Use medium heat in a skillet, stirring frequently until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Beef Tips and Gravy:

How do I make Beef Tips and Gravy from scratch?

Making Beef Tips and Gravy involves browning seasoned sirloin tips, deglazing the pan, and simmering everything together with flavorful ingredients until tender.

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes! While sirloin is ideal, you can substitute other cuts like chuck or round beef; just adjust cooking times accordingly.

What should I serve with Beef Tips and Gravy?

This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles, making it a versatile meal option.

How can I customize my Beef Tips and Gravy?

Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or mushrooms for extra nutrition. You can also adjust spices based on your taste preferences.

Can I make this recipe in a Slow Cooker?

Absolutely! Simply follow the instructions up to browning the meat, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Final Thoughts

Beef Tips and Gravy is a heartwarming dish that embodies comfort food at its finest. Its versatility allows you to serve it over various sides while tweaking flavors to suit your taste. Give this easy recipe a try, and enjoy cozy meals perfect for any occasion!