Beef Tips and Gravy: A Tender, Flavorful Comfort Food Classic

Beef Tips and Gravy is a classic dish that brings comfort and warmth to the table. Tender, flavorful beef tips are simmered in a rich, savory gravy that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or even buttered bread. This dish is easy to make and incredibly satisfying, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy evenings at home.

Why Beef Tips and Gravy Is So Special

The beauty of Beef Tips and Gravy lies in the simplicity of its ingredients and the rich, tender result. The beef tips are slow-cooked to perfection, absorbing all the flavors of the savory gravy. The gravy itself, made with beef broth, onions, and seasonings, is rich and full of umami. This dish is hearty, comforting, and guaranteed to please everyone at the table.

Key Ingredients for Beef Tips and Gravy

Let’s gather the ingredients needed to create this delicious, savory dish.

Ingredients:

• Beef Stew Meat (or sirloin tips): 1 1/2 lbs (cubed into bite-sized pieces)
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (for browning the beef)
• Onion (chopped): 1 medium
• Garlic (minced): 2 cloves
• Beef Broth: 2 cups
• Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon
• Soy Sauce: 1 tablespoon (optional, for added depth)
• Flour: 2 tablespoons (for thickening the gravy)
• Salt: 1 teaspoon (or to taste)
• Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (or to taste)
• Thyme (dried or fresh): 1 teaspoon
• Bay Leaves: 2
• Heavy Cream or Milk: 1/4 cup (optional for a creamier gravy)
• Fresh Parsley (for garnish): 1 tablespoon (chopped)

this Recipe

Step-by-Step Recipe for Beef Tips and Gravy

Now that we have everything ready, let’s get cooking!

Step 1: Brown the Beef

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
• Add the beef stew meat in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Brown the beef on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

• In the same pan, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until softened and slightly golden.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Create the Gravy

• Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring well to coat. Cook for 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
• Gradually add the beef broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce (if using), salt, black pepper, thyme, and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 4: Simmer the Beef Tips

• Add the browned beef back into the pan, making sure the beef is submerged in the gravy.
• Reduce the heat to low and cover. Let the beef simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the beef is tender and the gravy has thickened.

Step 5: Finish the Gravy (Optional)

• If you’d like a creamier gravy, stir in the heavy cream or milk and let it simmer for another 5 minutes.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

• Remove the bay leaves from the gravy.
• Serve the beef tips and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered bread. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Serving Suggestions

Beef Tips and Gravy is the ultimate comfort food and pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple green salad. For a more hearty meal, you can serve it with buttered biscuits or rice to soak up the delicious gravy.

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FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes! You can use cuts like sirloin, chuck roast, or round steak for this dish. Just make sure to cut the beef into bite-sized pieces and allow enough time for the meat to become tender during simmering.

2. Can I make this dish in the slow cooker?

Absolutely! To make Beef Tips and Gravy in the slow cooker, brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Add the broth, seasonings, and bay leaves, and cook on low for 6-7 hours or until the beef is tender.

3. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftover Beef Tips and Gravy. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When reheating, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove over low heat.

4. What can I use instead of beef broth?

If you don’t have beef broth, you can substitute with chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even water with a beef bouillon cube.

5. How do I make the gravy thicker?

If you want a thicker gravy, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the simmering gravy. Allow it to cook for a few more minutes until it thickens.

6. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can add vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or mushrooms to the beef and gravy for added flavor and texture. Just add them when you simmer the beef so they have time to cook through.

7. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, Beef Tips and Gravy can be made a day ahead of time. Simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat it on the stove over low heat before serving.

8. How long will the leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftovers will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to store them in an airtight container to preserve freshness.

9. Can I make this dish spicier?

If you like spice, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the gravy for an extra kick.

10. What should I serve with Beef Tips and Gravy?

Beef Tips and Gravy pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, buttered bread, or roasted vegetables like carrots, green beans, or peas.