Beef tips and gravy is a classic comfort food that brings tender, flavorful chunks of beef swimming in a rich, savory gravy to your plate. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is hearty, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make. If you’ve ever wondered how to make beef tips and gravy from scratch, this guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, with tips for stovetop, slow cooker, and Instant Pot methods.
What Are Beef Tips and Gravy?
Beef tips are simply bite-sized pieces of beef, often from stew meat or chuck roast, that are browned and then slow-cooked or braised until tender. The gravy is made from the cooking juices, enriched with broth, seasonings, and thickened to a luscious consistency. This dish is perfect served over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice, making it a versatile meal for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make classic beef tips and gravy, gather these ingredients:
– 2 pounds cubed beef stew meat or chuck roast
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
– 3 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
– 2 bay leaves
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
– 3 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 1/4 cup water (for thickening)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Beef
Start by seasoning the beef cubes with salt, pepper, flour, and brown sugar. The flour helps create a nice crust and thickens the gravy later on. Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan, and brown all sides until golden. This step locks in flavor and adds depth to your gravy. Remove the browned beef and set it aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant. This builds the flavor base for your gravy.
3. Deglaze and Braise
Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce to deglaze the pot, scraping up all the browned bits stuck to the bottom. These bits are packed with flavor! Add the paprika, red pepper flakes, bay leaves, thyme, and browned beef back into the pot. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer gently for about 2 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender.
4. Thicken the Gravy
Once the beef is tender, remove the bay leaves and thyme sprigs. Mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry, then slowly stir it into the simmering liquid. Cook for a few more minutes until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Serve your beef tips and gravy hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. Garnish with fresh parsley if you like for a pop of color and freshness.
Alternative Cooking Methods
Slow Cooker Method
Brown the beef as described above, then transfer it to your slow cooker. Add all other ingredients except the cornstarch slurry. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. In the last 20 minutes, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until thickened.
Instant Pot Method
Use the sauté function to brown the beef, then add the remaining ingredients (except the slurry). Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 35 minutes. Allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then quick release the rest. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and sauté for a few minutes until thickened.
Tips for Perfect Beef Tips and Gravy
– Brown the beef in batches: This prevents steaming and ensures a good sear.
– Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme and bay leaves add bright, aromatic notes.
– Don’t rush the simmer: Slow cooking makes the beef tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
– Adjust seasoning gradually: Taste as you go and add salt or pepper to your liking.
– Try mushrooms: Adding sautéed mushrooms enhances the umami flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Beef tips and gravy pair wonderfully with:
– Creamy mashed potatoes
– Buttered egg noodles
– Steamed rice
– Roasted vegetables or green beans
– A side salad for a lighter touch
This dish is a cozy, satisfying meal that’s perfect for cooler evenings or anytime you want a hearty home-cooked dinner.
Beef tips and gravy is a timeless recipe that’s easy to master and customize. With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create a delicious meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy the rich flavors and tender beef that make this dish a true comfort food classic.