Beef Tips And Gravy

Beef tips and gravy are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions. The tender chunks of beef braised in a rich, savory gravy create a dish that’s both satisfying and flavorful. This easy recipe allows you to choose between stovetop or slow cooker methods, making it versatile for any busy schedule. Ideal for serving over mashed potatoes or rice, this dish is sure to impress your guests and keep everyone coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: With only a few steps, this recipe is straightforward, making it suitable for cooks of all skill levels.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of beef broth, soy sauce, and spices creates a deep flavor profile that elevates the dish.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over mashed potatoes, rice, or even pasta—this dish fits various meal styles.
• Family-Friendly: This hearty meal is sure to please both kids and adults alike at the dinner table.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Great for meal prep; you can easily make it ahead of time and reheat when needed.

Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious beef tips and gravy, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can simplify your cooking process and help ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Whisk

Why These Tools Matter

• Dutch oven: Ideal for browning meat and simmering; it retains heat well for even cooking.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pots; it’s durable and effective.
• Whisk: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly, especially when thickening sauces.

Ingredients

My beef tips and gravy feature tender chunks of beef braised in a rich and savory gravy. Stovetop or slow cooker option. Watch how I make this in my kitchen in the video below!

Ingredients:
– 2 pounds stew meat (cubed)
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 3 tablespoons olive 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)
– 2 bay leaves
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 3 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 cup water

How to Make Beef Tips And Gravy

Step 1: Season the Meat

Season the cubed beef with salt, black pepper, flour, and brown sugar. Make sure each piece is evenly coated to enhance flavor during cooking.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

Heat the olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned beef to the pot and brown on all sides. Once browned, remove the meat from the pot and set aside.

Step 3: Cook Onions and Garlic

Add butter to the same pot used for browning the meat. Once melted, add diced onion and sauté until translucent. Next, stir in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Spices

Pour in the beef broth along with Worcestershire sauce and soy sauce. Bring this mixture to a boil before reducing the heat. Add bay leaves, thyme, paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), and return the browned beef to the pot.

Step 5: Simmer Until Tender

Cover the Dutch oven with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for about two hours. This slow cooking process helps tenderize the meat beautifully.

Step 6: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water until smooth. Gradually add this mixture to your pot while stirring continuously until it thickens to your desired consistency.

Step 7: Serve

Discard bay leaves and thyme sprigs before serving immediately over your choice of side dishes like mashed potatoes or rice. Enjoy!

How to Serve Beef Tips And Gravy

Serving beef tips and gravy can elevate your meal, providing a comforting and hearty experience. Here are some ideas to make your dish even more enjoyable.

Over Rice

• Serve the beef tips and gravy over a bed of fluffy white rice. The rice absorbs the savory sauce perfectly, adding texture and flavor.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Pair your beef tips with creamy mashed potatoes. The combination of the rich gravy with smooth potatoes creates a delightful contrast.

In a Sandwich

• For a unique twist, place the beef tips inside a crusty roll or bread for a delicious sandwich. Drizzle extra gravy on top for added flavor.

On Noodles

• Serve the beef tips over egg noodles for an easy and satisfying meal. The noodles soak up the gravy, making every bite flavorful.

With Vegetables

• Complement your beef tips with steamed or roasted vegetables. Fresh greens or root vegetables add nutritional balance to your meal.

As a Meal Prep Option

• Pack leftover beef tips and gravy in containers for easy meal prep throughout the week. Reheat for quick lunches or dinners.

How to Perfect Beef Tips And Gravy

Perfecting beef tips and gravy takes practice, but these tips can help you achieve restaurant-quality results at home.

• Choose Quality Meat: Selecting tender cuts of meat will enhance the flavor and texture of your dish, ensuring juicy bites.
• Brown Properly: Browning the meat well before braising adds depth of flavor to your dish, creating a richer gravy.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Incorporating fresh thyme or other herbs enhances the aroma and taste of your gravy, giving it a vibrant touch.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and spices to suit your preference for a personalized flavor profile.
• Let It Simmer: Allowing the beef to simmer slowly ensures it becomes tender while absorbing all the flavors from the gravy.
• Thickening Techniques: Experiment with different thickening agents like cornstarch or flour to find your preferred consistency for the gravy.

Best Side Dishes for Beef Tips And Gravy

Beef tips and gravy pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: A simple side that adds color and health benefits, balancing out the richness of the dish.
2. Roasted Carrots: Sweet and caramelized carrots provide a nice contrast to savory beef.
3. Buttered Corn: This sweet side is always a crowd-pleaser and works well with hearty meals.
4. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness enhances the overall meal experience while offering nutritional benefits.
5. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw adds freshness and cuts through the richness of beef tips and gravy.
6. Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up extra gravy, garlic bread adds a delightful crunch alongside your main dish.
7. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that nicely complements beef without overwhelming it.
8. Couscous Salad: Light yet filling, couscous mixed with veggies makes for an excellent side dish choice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making beef tips and gravy can be simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin the dish. Here are some to watch out for:

• Bold seasoning: Not seasoning the meat enough can lead to bland flavor. Always season generously with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Bold browning: Skipping the browning step can prevent that rich, deep flavor from developing. Take the time to brown the beef on all sides.
• Bold cooking time: Cooking the beef for too short a time will result in tough pieces. Allow it to simmer until it’s tender for the best texture.
• Bold thickening agents: Adding cornstarch directly without mixing can cause clumps. Always make it into a smooth paste with water first.
• Bold ingredient swaps: Using low-quality ingredients can affect taste. Choose fresh herbs and quality broth for optimal flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow it to cool before sealing to preserve freshness.

Freezing Beef Tips And Gravy

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label with date for easy tracking of freshness.

Reheating Beef Tips And Gravy

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a covered dish and heat until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover loosely and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if needed to maintain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best cut of beef for Beef Tips And Gravy?

The best cuts are chuck roast or stew meat, as they become tender when cooked slowly.

Can I make Beef Tips And Gravy in a slow cooker?

Yes! Simply combine all ingredients in your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until tender.

How do I customize my Beef Tips And Gravy?

You can add vegetables like carrots or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. Adjust spices based on your preference as well!

What should I serve with Beef Tips And Gravy?

This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy.

Conclusion

This Beef Tips And Gravy recipe is not only comforting but also versatile enough to adapt to your tastes. With its rich flavors and ease of preparation, it’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices!