Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that’s bursting with rich flavor and tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef, this Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine juicy beef stew meat slow-cooked to perfection in a savory, homemade gravy that’s just the right balance of silky and flavorful. This dish is as satisfying as it is simple, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. Once you try this recipe, it’s guaranteed to become a beloved staple in your recipe rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create an absolutely comforting dish. Each item plays a vital role in building the rich gravy, tender beef, and perfectly balanced taste you’ll love.

• Beef stew meat: The star of the dish, this cut becomes wonderfully tender with slow cooking.
• Olive oil: Helps to brown the beef, adding depth and caramelized flavor.
• Onion: Adds sweetness and texture once sautéed.
• Garlic: Infuses the gravy with a mild pungency that complements the beef.
• Beef broth: Forms the rich, savory base of the gravy.
• Soy sauce: Adds umami and a touch of saltiness without overpowering.
• Worcestershire sauce: Brings a complex tang and depth to the flavor profile.
• Italian seasoning: Offers a subtle herby note that brightens the dish.
• Cornstarch: Thickens the gravy to a luscious consistency.
• Water: Used to make the cornstarch slurry for gravy thickening.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.

How to Make Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe

Step 1: Season the Beef

Start by placing the beef stew meat into a large bowl, then generously season it with salt and pepper. This first step brings out the natural flavors of the beef and is crucial for a delicious final dish.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the seasoned beef on all sides until it develops a rich, caramelized crust. This process locks in juices and adds layers of flavor.

Step 3: Transfer to the Crock Pot

Once browned, transfer the beef pieces into your crock pot, setting the foundation for that slow-cooked tenderness we all love.

Step 4: Sauté Onion and Garlic

In the same skillet, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until fragrant and soft, which imparts a sweet and aromatic essence that elevates the gravy.

Step 5: Add the Liquid Ingredients and Seasoning

Pour in beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and sprinkle the Italian seasoning over the sautéed onion and garlic. Stir everything together to create a harmonious blend that will envelop each bite of beef.

Step 6: Combine All Ingredients in the Crock Pot

Pour this flavorful mixture over the beef in your crock pot. Seal the lid tightly to keep all the aromas locked in.

Step 7: Slow Cook the Beef

Cook the beef on low for 7 to 8 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours. This slow cooking melts the connective tissue, resulting in irresistibly tender beef tips bathed in luscious gravy.

Step 8: Prepare the Cornstarch Slurry

Mix together cornstarch and water in a small bowl until smooth. This slurry will thicken the gravy perfectly without lumps or artificial thickness.

Step 9: Thicken the Gravy

Stir the slurry into the crock pot, re-cover with the lid, and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes. This allows the gravy to thicken to that silky consistency you want with each spoonful.

Step 10: Final Seasoning

Give the gravy a taste and adjust with salt and pepper as desired. A bit of tweaking here makes all the difference to suit your palate.

Step 11: Serve and Enjoy

Dish out your Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy with pride and dig into the ultimate comfort food experience you just made from scratch.

How to Serve Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme are fantastic garnishes, adding a pop of color and a fresh contrast to the rich gravy. A sprinkle of cracked black pepper or a dash of paprika also adds visual appeal and a mild kick.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, buttery egg noodles, or even a spoonful of fluffy rice, as these sides soak up every bit of that savory gravy beautifully. Roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad provide balance and freshness alongside the hearty beef.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the beef tips over toasted bread or inside warm biscuits to turn it into an indulgent sandwich. You can also pile it over a baked potato or even use as a topping for a savory pot pie for an unexpected treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After cooling the beef tips and gravy, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. The flavors will continue to meld, making the next day’s meal even tastier.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully. Portion the stew into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some room for expansion. It will keep well for up to three months, perfect for convenient future meals.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the gravy from sticking or burning. You can add a splash of broth or water if the gravy thickens too much. Microwave reheating works well too but do so in short intervals to avoid overheating.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for this Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe?

Absolutely! While stew meat is ideal for slow cooking, you can use chuck roast or sirloin tips. Just be sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and tenderness.

Is it necessary to brown the beef before slow cooking?

While not mandatory, browning the beef first adds incredible depth and richness to the flavor and greatly enhances the final dish. It’s worth the extra step!

Can I make this recipe without soy sauce?

Yes, you can substitute soy sauce with coconut aminos for a gluten-free option, or simply omit it, but keep in mind that soy sauce adds essential umami and saltiness to the gravy.

How thick should the gravy be?

The gravy should be velvety and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon, but not overly gelatinous. Adjust the cornstarch slurry or cooking time if needed to reach your desired consistency.

Can I add vegetables directly to the crock pot?

Definitely! Adding hearty vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, or potatoes at the start or mid-way through cooking will make this meal even heartier. Just adjust cooking times accordingly for even doneness.

Final Thoughts

You simply cannot go wrong with this Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe. There’s something so wonderfully satisfying about tender beef simmered slowly in a rich, flavorful gravy that finishes every bite with cozy comfort. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing guests, this recipe delivers an effortless, delicious meal every time. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and make it a favorite in your own home!

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