Quick Overview
Beef Tips and Gravy (Stove Top or Crock Pot!) is a comforting dish that brings warmth to any table. This recipe combines tender beef with a rich, savory gravy that can be made quickly on the stove or slowly in a crock pot. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting guests, this meal is sure to impress. The juicy beef paired with the flavorful gravy makes it a family favorite.
Ingredient Breakdown
Beef Tips
For this dish, use 1.5 pounds of tender beef tips. Cuts like sirloin or chuck work well as they become incredibly tender during cooking.
Onion
You will need one medium onion, finely chopped. Onions add sweetness and depth of flavor to the gravy, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Garlic
Two cloves of garlic minced are essential for adding aromatic flavor. Garlic complements the beef beautifully and contributes to the savory profile of the gravy.
Beef Broth
Three cups of beef broth are needed for richness in flavor. The broth serves as the base for your gravy and helps keep the meat moist during cooking.
Soy Sauce
Two tablespoons of soy sauce give a salty depth to the dish. It enhances the umami flavors in the beef and balances the richness of the gravy.
Worcestershire Sauce
One tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce adds a tangy note that elevates the overall flavor profile. This ingredient brings complexity to the sauce.
Cornstarch
Use two tablespoons of cornstarch mixed with water for thickening your gravy. This will ensure a smooth texture and help create a luscious sauce.
Seasonings
Salt and pepper to taste enhance all flavors in this dish. These basic seasonings are crucial for making sure every bite is delicious.
Step By Step Recipe: Beef Tips and Gravy (Stove Top or Crock Pot!)
Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by gathering all your ingredients together on your countertop. Chop your onion and mince your garlic so everything is ready when you start cooking. Measure out your broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and cornstarch mixture so it’s easy to add as you go.
Sear the Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add some oil and allow it to heat up before adding your beef tips. Sear them until they are browned on all sides; this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Browning adds flavor to your dish.
Sauté Onions and Garlic
Once your beef is browned, remove it from the skillet but keep it warm. In the same skillet, add onions and sauté them until they become translucent—around 3-4 minutes—then add minced garlic for an additional minute until fragrant.
Combine Broth and Sauces
Next, pour in three cups of beef broth along with two tablespoons of soy sauce and one tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce into the skillet with onions and garlic. Stir well to combine all flavors before bringing it to a gentle simmer.
Thicken Your Gravy
Mix two tablespoons of cornstarch with equal parts water in a small bowl until smooth; then slowly whisk this mixture into your simmering broth while stirring constantly until it thickens—about 3-5 minutes should do it!
Return Beef To Skillet
After thickening your gravy, return the seared beef tips back into the skillet with all its juices incorporated into that lovely sauce. Stir everything together gently so that each piece gets coated with that rich gravy.
Cooking Options: Stove Top or Slow Cooker
If using a stove top: Cover your skillet with a lid; reduce heat to low and let simmer for about 30-45 minutes until meat is tender.
If using a crock pot: Transfer everything into your slow cooker after combining; cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until tender.
Serving and Storing Tips
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delicious Beef Tips and Gravy over mashed potatoes or rice for a complete meal that satisfies everyone’s appetite! You can also pair them with steamed vegetables or crusty bread for added texture.
Storage Guidelines
Store leftover Beef Tips and Gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave before serving again to maintain texture without losing flavor.
By following these steps closely, you’ll create mouthwatering Beef Tips and Gravy (Stove Top or Crock Pot!) that everyone will love!
Mistakes to avoid
One common mistake when making Beef Tips and Gravy is using tough cuts of meat. Always choose tender cuts like sirloin or tenderloin for a better texture. Tougher cuts require longer cooking times and may become chewy.
Another mistake involves neglecting to sear the beef before cooking. Searing adds depth of flavor and creates a rich sauce. Skip this step, and your dish might taste flat.
Using too much liquid can dilute the flavor of your gravy. Start with less and add more as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
Finally, don’t forget to season your dish properly. Under-seasoning can lead to bland beef tips, so be generous with salt, pepper, and herbs.
Tips and tricks
To achieve the best Beef Tips and Gravy, choose the right cooking method that suits your schedule. A stove top allows for quick preparation while a Crock Pot offers convenience for busy days. If you opt for the stove top, cook on medium heat to ensure even cooking without burning.
When preparing your ingredients, cut the beef into uniform pieces for consistent cooking. Uneven sizes can lead to some pieces being overcooked while others remain undercooked.
Consider marinating your beef in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce before cooking. This adds an extra layer of flavor and helps tenderize the meat.
Always allow the dish to rest after cooking. This helps redistribute juices throughout the beef, leading to a more flavorful result. Cover it with foil for about 10 minutes before serving.
Lastly, don’t forget about presentation! Serve your Beef Tips and Gravy over mashed potatoes or rice for an appealing plate that enhances the dining experience.
Suggestions for Beef Tips and Gravy (Stove Top or Crock Pot!)
For additional flavor in your Beef Tips and Gravy, consider adding mushrooms or onions while browning the meat. These vegetables not only enhance taste but also add texture to the dish.
If you prefer a thicker gravy, incorporate cornstarch or flour mixed with cold water towards the end of cooking. Stir it in slowly until achieving your desired thickness without clumping.
Pairing your beef tips with appropriate sides can elevate your meal further. Consider serving them alongside creamy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles that soak up the delicious gravy.
Lastly, garnishing with fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish. It also complements the flavors beautifully while making it visually appealing on the table.
FAQs
What is the best cut of beef for Beef Tips and Gravy?
The best cuts include sirloin or tenderloin due to their tenderness and flavor profile. These cuts cook quickly while remaining juicy in both stove top and Crock Pot methods.
Can I make Beef Tips and Gravy ahead of time?
Yes! Preparing Beef Tips and Gravy ahead of time allows flavors to meld together beautifully. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze it for longer storage.
How do I thicken my gravy?
To thicken gravy without altering its flavor significantly, mix cornstarch with cold water before adding it to your pot gradually until you reach the desired consistency.
Can I use frozen beef?
While using frozen beef is possible, it’s recommended to thaw it first for even cooking. Cooking from frozen can lead to uneven textures in your Beef Tips and Gravy.
What should I serve with my Beef Tips and Gravy?
Ideal accompaniments include mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles that absorb gravy well. Fresh vegetables or crusty bread also complement this hearty dish perfectly.
How long does it take to cook Beef Tips in a Crock Pot?
Cooking Beef Tips in a Crock Pot typically takes 6-8 hours on low heat or 4-5 hours on high heat. The slow cooking process allows flavors to develop fully while keeping the meat tender.
Summary
In summary, making delicious Beef Tips and Gravy requires attention to detail at every step. Avoid common mistakes such as using tough meat or insufficient seasoning while following helpful tips for preparation techniques can enhance the final outcome significantly. Pairing suggestions also elevate your meal experience further by providing perfect side dishes that complement this classic recipe beautifully.