Few comfort food meals are as satisfying as tender beef tips smothered in rich homemade gravy. This classic dish is packed with savory flavor and pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or even roasted vegetables. The best part is that you can prepare it in a slow cooker, on the stovetop, or in the oven depending on your schedule and preference.
This recipe starts with sirloin tips that are seasoned and seared until beautifully browned. They are then simmered in a flavorful gravy made with beef broth, onions, garlic, herbs, and Worcestershire sauce. The result is melt-in-your-mouth beef and a silky gravy that tastes like it has been cooking all day.
1. Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe (Yield: 4 Servings)
Ingredients
For the Beef
- 1 ½ lbs. sirloin tips
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
For the Gravy
- ¼ cup dry red wine, optional
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 beef bouillon cube
- 1 ½ teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with ¼ cup cold water
Instructions
Pat the beef tips dry with paper towels. Dry meat browns better and develops more flavor. In a large bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, black pepper, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and paprika. Add the beef tips and toss until evenly coated.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef tips in a single layer, working in batches if necessary. Sear for about 2 minutes per side until a deep brown crust develops. Transfer the beef to a plate and set aside.
Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the diced onion and cook for 5 to 6 minutes until softened and lightly golden. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
If using red wine, pour it into the skillet and scrape the bottom of the pan to release the flavorful browned bits. Allow the wine to reduce by half.
Add the beef broth, bouillon cube, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, onion powder, and garlic powder. Stir until combined.
Stove Top Method
Return the seared beef tips to the skillet with the gravy mixture.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 1½ to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of extra broth if the gravy becomes too thick.
Once the beef is tender, slowly stir in the cornstarch slurry. Continue simmering for 5 to 10 minutes until the gravy reaches your desired consistency.
Serve immediately.
Slow Cooker Method
Transfer the seared beef tips to the slow cooker. Pour the prepared gravy mixture over the beef and stir gently.
Cover and cook on LOW for 7 to 8 hours or HIGH for 4 to 5 hours. The beef should become fork tender.
During the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the cornstarch slurry. Cover and continue cooking until the gravy thickens.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.
Oven Baked Method
Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
Transfer the seared beef tips and gravy mixture to a Dutch oven or oven-safe baking dish with a tight-fitting lid.
Cover and bake for 2½ to 3 hours, stirring once halfway through cooking. The beef should be very tender when pierced with a fork.
Remove from the oven and place over medium heat on the stovetop if using a Dutch oven. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for several minutes until the gravy thickens.
Serve warm with your favorite side dishes.
2. Tips for Perfect Homemade Beef Tips and Gravy
Sear the beef in batches instead of overcrowding the pan. Proper browning creates a deep beef flavor that carries throughout the gravy.
Use sirloin tips that are cut into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly and become tender at the same rate.
Do not rush the cooking process. Beef tips become most tender when given enough time for the connective tissue to break down completely.
Scrape up every browned bit from the bottom of the skillet after searing. Those caramelized bits add tremendous flavor to the gravy.
Add the cornstarch slurry only after the beef is fully tender. Thickening the gravy too early can interfere with proper simmering and may cause the sauce to become too thick before the meat finishes cooking.
3. Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best cut of beef for beef tips and gravy?
Sirloin tips work very well because they are flavorful and become tender with slow cooking. Chuck roast cut into cubes is another excellent option.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. In fact, many people find the flavor improves after resting overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
What can I serve with beef tips and gravy?
Mashed potatoes, egg noodles, white rice, roasted vegetables, biscuits, and dinner rolls are all great choices.
Can I freeze beef tips and gravy?
Absolutely. Store cooled beef and gravy in airtight freezer containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Why is my beef still tough after cooking?
Tough beef usually means it needs more cooking time. Continue simmering or slow cooking until the connective tissue breaks down and the beef becomes fork tender.
4. Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 470 |
| Protein | 38g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Fat | 30g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g |
| Cholesterol | 110mg |
| Sodium | 760mg |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 3g |
| Calcium | 35mg |
Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
This beef tips and gravy recipe delivers tender chunks of beef and rich homemade gravy using whichever cooking method works best for your schedule. The slow cooker creates an effortless dinner, the stovetop offers classic comfort food flavor, and the oven method provides excellent results for weekend meals.
Once you master this recipe, you’ll have a dependable family favorite that’s perfect for cozy dinners, special occasions, and meal prep. Serve it over mashed potatoes or noodles and enjoy every bite of this hearty comfort food classic.
