Beef Tips and Gravy

Beef Tips and Gravy is a classic comfort food dish made with tender beef simmered in a rich, savory gravy. It’s hearty, satisfying, and perfect for pairing with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. This homestyle meal is ideal for both busy weeknights and cozy weekend dinners, bringing warm, nostalgic flavors to the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Beef Tips and Gravy is an easy, one-pot meal that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. The beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender after simmering in a flavorful brown gravy. You can make it on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or in an Instant Pot, and it’s endlessly versatile. Plus, it’s a family-friendly recipe that’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Beef stew meat or sirloin tips, cubed
• Olive oil or butter
• Onion, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Beef broth
• Worcestershire sauce
• Soy sauce (optional for depth)
• Browning sauce (optional, for color)
• Flour or cornstarch (for thickening)
• Salt and black pepper
• Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)

Optional Add-ins:

• Mushrooms, sliced
• Red wine for deglazing
• Bay leaf

directions

1. Heat oil or butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Season beef with salt and pepper, then brown in batches to avoid overcrowding. Set aside.
3. In the same pan, sauté chopped onion (and mushrooms if using) until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
4. Return beef to the pan. Pour in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce. Add a splash of red wine or browning sauce if using.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
6. Mix flour or cornstarch with a small amount of cold water to make a slurry. Stir into the pot and simmer uncovered until the gravy thickens, about 5–10 minutes.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Servings and timing

Serves 4–6 people
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours
Total time: About 2 hours

Variations

• Slow Cooker Method: Add all ingredients except the thickener to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours, then thicken before serving.
• Instant Pot Version: Use the sauté function to brown meat and onions. Add liquids, pressure cook for 25 minutes, and thicken afterward.
• Add Veggies: Include carrots or peas for a heartier meal.
• Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream at the end for a richer gravy.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper for heat.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use cornstarch instead of flour and ensure broth and sauces are gluten-free.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat, warm gently on the stove over medium-low heat or microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

What kind of beef is best for beef tips?

Stew meat, chuck, or sirloin tips work well. Chuck offers great flavor and becomes very tender when slow-cooked.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, and it often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

How do I thicken the gravy?

Use a slurry made with flour or cornstarch and cold water. Stir into the simmering gravy until thickened.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours. Thicken just before serving.

Is red wine necessary?

No, but it adds depth. If you prefer not to use it, just increase the beef broth.

Can I use pre-cut stew meat?

Absolutely. Just be sure to brown it well for the best flavor.

What can I serve with beef tips and gravy?

Mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, rice, or even polenta make great bases.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Use cornstarch instead of flour and verify that all sauces and broth are gluten-free.

Can I add mushrooms?

Yes, mushrooms add great flavor and pair perfectly with the beef and gravy.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

Conclusion

Beef Tips and Gravy is a comforting, flavorful classic that’s easy to prepare and loved by all. Whether you cook it low and slow on the stove or let your slow cooker do the work, this dish always delivers rich, tender beef and a deliciously savory gravy. Perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy Sunday suppers, it’s a timeless recipe that brings warmth to every bite.

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