Beef Tips and Gravy

Learn how to make Beef Tips and Gravy from scratch in one pot on the stovetop or in the Slow Cooker! This classic comfort food is perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings. With its rich flavors and tender beef, it’s a dish that appeals to everyone. Whether served over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice, this dish brings warmth and satisfaction to any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.
• One-Pot Wonder: Cook everything in one skillet, reducing cleanup time and hassle after your delicious meal.
• Flavorful Comfort Food: The combination of spices and beef broth creates a mouthwatering gravy that enhances the tender sirloin tips.
• Versatile Pairings: Enjoy Beef Tips and Gravy with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for a satisfying dinner.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is loved by both kids and adults alike, making it an excellent option for family meals.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin cooking, gather your tools and prepare your ingredients. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Essential for browning the meat evenly, enhancing the flavor through caramelization.
• Silicone spatula: Great for deglazing the pan without scratching it, ensuring you capture every bit of flavor.
• Whisk: Ideal for mixing the cornstarch with cold water smoothly, preventing lumps in your gravy.

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; discard 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 meat in batches; do not overcrowd the pan. Brown on each side for 30-45 seconds.
• Transfer browned meat to a plate. Repeat until all beef is browned but not fully cooked.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pan

• Add ¼ cup apple vinegar to the skillet. Use a silicone spatula to deglaze by scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan.
• Let apple vinegar 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).
• Add minced garlic; cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 6: Combine Gravy Ingredients

• Add remaining gravy ingredients except cornstarch mixture; bring to a boil.

Step 7: Thicken the Gravy

• Mix cornstarch with cold water using a whisk until smooth.
• Slowly whisk into boiling sauce while stirring continuously until desired thickness is reached.

Step 8: Cook Beef in Gravy

• Reduce heat to medium-low; add cooked beef along with juices from the plate.
• Cover partially with lid; simmer for 10-15 minutes until beef is cooked through.

Step 9: Finish Your Dish

(Optional) Swirl in 1 tablespoon of cold butter at the end for a velvety finish. Serve immediately over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice!

Enjoy your hearty Beef Tips and Gravy!

How to Serve Beef Tips and Gravy

Beef Tips and Gravy is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides. Whether you prefer something classic or a bit more unique, there are numerous ways to enjoy this comforting meal.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes absorb the rich gravy, making each bite comforting and satisfying.

Over Egg Noodles

• Egg noodles are perfect for catching the savory gravy, providing a delightful texture that complements the beef.

With Rice

• Serve over white or brown rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. This option is light yet filling.

In a Sandwich

• Use leftover beef tips to make a delicious sandwich. Add some cheese and sautéed onions for extra flavor.

On a Salad

• For a lighter option, slice the beef tips over a fresh salad. Drizzle with dressing to enhance the flavors.

As A Filling for Tacos

• Shred the beef tips and serve in taco shells with your favorite toppings like salsa, cheese, and avocado for a fun twist.

How to Perfect Beef Tips and Gravy

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

• Brown the Meat Properly: Searing the meat creates a rich flavor base that enhances your gravy.

• Use Quality Broth: Opt for homemade or high-quality beef broth for deeper flavor in your gravy.

• Deglaze the Pan: Use vinegar or wine after browning meat to capture all those flavorful bits stuck to the pan.

• Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and spices as needed throughout cooking for a balanced flavor.

• Let it Simmer: Allowing the dish to simmer melds all flavors together beautifully, enhancing overall taste.

• Finish with Butter: Swirling in cold butter at the end gives your gravy a silky texture that’s irresistible.

Best Side Dishes for Beef Tips and Gravy

Pairing Beef Tips and Gravy with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal even further. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up extra gravy while adding a delicious garlic flavor.

2. Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans provide color and nutrition alongside the hearty beef dish.

3. Coleslaw: The crunch from coleslaw contrasts nicely with the tender beef, adding freshness.

4. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes offer a satisfying texture that pairs well with gravy.

5. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread balances out savory flavors while being easy to prepare as an accompaniment.

6. Cauliflower Mash: A low-carb alternative that’s creamy and pairs excellently with rich gravies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Beef Tips and Gravy can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less than perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not seasoning the beef properly: Always season the meat before cooking. This enhances flavor and ensures every bite is delicious.

• Overcrowding the pan: When browning meat, avoid overcrowding. This causes steaming instead of browning, which affects the flavor.

• Skipping deglazing: Failing to deglaze the pan after browning can lead to missed flavor. Use vinegar or broth to scrape up those tasty bits left behind.

• Cooking too long on high heat: Cooking on high heat can dry out the beef. Opt for medium heat for a more controlled and flavorful cooking process.

• Ignoring resting time: Letting the dish rest after cooking allows flavors to meld together. Skipping this step can mean missing out on optimal taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Beef Tips and Gravy

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Properly stored, it will maintain quality for up to 3 months.

Reheating Beef Tips and Gravy

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to Beef Tips and Gravy that you might find helpful:

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

Yes! You can prepare this dish in a Slow Cooker by browning the beef first, then adding all ingredients and cooking on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

What can I serve with Beef Tips and Gravy?

Beef Tips and Gravy pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. You can also serve it with crusty bread for dipping!

How do I thicken my gravy?

If your gravy is too thin, mix cornstarch with cold water as specified in the recipe. Stir it into your sauce gradually until reaching your desired consistency.

Can I use other cuts of beef?

Absolutely! While sirloin tips are great for this recipe, you could also use chuck roast or flank steak if you prefer.

Final Thoughts

Beef Tips and Gravy is a comforting and hearty meal that warms both body and soul. With its rich flavors and versatility, you can easily customize it by adding vegetables or adjusting spices to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table!