If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that’s simple to make and packed with flavor, beef tips and rice is the perfect choice. This classic dish features tender, juicy beef tips cooked in a savory gravy with peppers and onions, all served over fluffy rice. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or even enjoying as leftovers because the flavors only get better with time.
Let’s dive into how you can cook beef tips and rice with easy steps, expert tips, and some tasty variations to make it your own.
What You’ll Love About Beef Tips and Rice
– Easy to make: Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps.
– One-pot meal: Less cleanup, more convenience.
– Versatile: Customize with your favorite veggies or spices.
– Comforting: Perfect for chilly days or when you want something satisfying.
– Tender beef: The slow cooking makes the meat melt-in-your-mouth soft.
– Naturally gluten-free: A wholesome option without added sugars or gluten.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– Beef tips (about 2 pounds)
– Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder (for seasoning)
– Olive oil and butter
– Onions and bell peppers (sliced)
– Beef broth
– Coconut aminos or soy sauce (optional for depth of flavor)
– Tapioca flour (for thickening gravy)
– Brown rice (or your preferred rice)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Season the Beef Tips
Start by placing your beef tips in a bowl. Sprinkle generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Toss everything together so the beef is fully coated with the seasoning. This step builds the base flavor of the dish.
2. Sear the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the beef tips and sear them on all sides until they develop a nice brown crust. This locks in the juices and adds rich flavor. After searing, transfer the beef to a plate.
3. Cook the Vegetables
In the same pan, add butter. When melted, toss in the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5 to 6 minutes until they become tender and fragrant.
4. Add Broth and Beef Back to the Pan
Pour in the beef broth and coconut aminos (or soy sauce). Return the seared beef tips to the pan. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover with a lid.
5. Simmer Until Tender
Let the beef tips simmer gently for 1 to 2 hours. This slow cooking process makes the beef incredibly tender and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. Prepare the Rice
While the beef is simmering, cook your brown rice according to the package instructions. Brown rice adds a nutty flavor and chewy texture that complements the beef tips perfectly.
7. Thicken the Gravy
Once the beef is tender, take about ¼ cup of the cooking liquid and mix it with tapioca flour in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir this back into the pan and cook until the gravy thickens into a creamy sauce.
8. Serve and Enjoy
Plate the cooked rice, then top it generously with the beef tips, sautéed peppers, onions, and that luscious gravy. Dig in and savor every bite!
Expert Tips for Perfect Beef Tips and Rice
– Use high-quality beef for the best tenderness and flavor.
– Don’t skimp on seasoning; it makes all the difference.
– Simmer low and slow to get beef that’s fall-apart tender.
– Customize by adding mushrooms, carrots, or potatoes for extra texture.
– For a low-carb twist, serve over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
– This dish reheats well, making it great for leftovers or meal prep.
Flavor Variations and Add-Ins
– Spice it up with paprika, chili powder, or fresh herbs like thyme.
– Swap bell peppers for other veggies like mushrooms or carrots.
– Add a splash of red wine to the broth for deeper flavor.
– Use different types of rice or grains, such as jasmine rice or quinoa.
Slow Cooker Option
If you prefer a hands-off approach, try making beef tips and rice in a crockpot:
– Brown the beef tips in a skillet first.
– Transfer to the slow cooker with sautéed onions, peppers, beef broth, and seasonings.
– Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 4 hours.
– Before serving, thicken the sauce with a tapioca flour slurry.
– Serve over cooked rice.
This method is perfect for busy days when you want dinner ready without standing over the stove.
Beef tips and rice is a delicious, comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this dish delivers satisfying flavors and tender beef that everyone will love. Give it a try and enjoy a warm, hearty dinner tonight!