Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy

Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy is a delightful dish that brings comfort to any table. With its tender beef tips simmered in a rich gravy, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Simply set it and forget it — you’ll have a hearty meal ready when you are. This dish is versatile enough to serve on special occasions or as a regular weeknight meal, making it an essential recipe for your collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply combine ingredients in the slow cooker and let it do the work while you enjoy your day.
• Rich Flavors: The combination of beef broth, onion soup mix, and seasonings creates a savory gravy that enhances the beef’s tenderness.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles to suit your family’s preferences.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or mushrooms for added nutrition.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Enjoy the leftovers easily reheated for lunch or dinner the next day.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, it’s essential to have the right tools on hand. These tools will help you prepare the Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy with ease.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker (6-quart)
• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring spoons
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: The star of this recipe! It ensures even cooking and helps develop deep flavors without constant supervision.
• Whisk: Perfect for mixing sauces and ensuring all ingredients blend smoothly, creating a rich gravy.
• Paper Towels: Useful for drying meat before cooking, which helps achieve better browning and flavor.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef stew meat
• 1 (1 oz) packet dry onion soup mix
• 2 cups beef broth
• 3 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 3 tbsp cornstarch
• 3 tbsp minced garlic
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Pat the stew meat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Place the beef in a 6-quart slow cooker.

Step 2: Mix the Seasonings

In a medium bowl, whisk together:
1. Beef broth
2. Dry onion soup mix
3. Thyme
4. Minced garlic
5. Ketchup
6. Worcestershire sauce
7. Cornstarch
8. Salt and pepper

Pour this mixture over the beef in the slow cooker, ensuring all meat is fully coated.

Step 3: Cook

Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook on low for 7-8 hours until the beef is tender and flavorful.

Step 4: Serve

Serve the beef tips and gravy hot over your choice of mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles for a satisfying meal. Enjoy!

How to Serve Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy

Serving Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy is all about complementing its rich flavors. This hearty dish can be enjoyed in various ways, making it versatile for any meal occasion.

Over Mashed Potatoes

• A classic choice that soaks up the savory gravy perfectly, making every bite a delight.

With Rice

• Serve over steamed white or brown rice for a filling meal that balances the beef’s richness.

On Buttered Egg Noodles

• The tender beef tips pair wonderfully with egg noodles, allowing the gravy to cling beautifully.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Add a side of roasted vegetables for a colorful and nutritious touch to your plate.

In a Sandwich

• Use the beef tips as a filling in crusty bread for a delicious sandwich option, perfect for lunch.

As Part of a Salad

• Top a fresh green salad with beef tips and drizzle some gravy for added flavor and protein.

How to Perfect Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy

To achieve the best results with your Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Meat: Select well-marbled beef stew meat for more flavor and tenderness.
• Brown the Meat First: Searing the beef before slow cooking enhances its depth of flavor.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste the gravy towards the end of cooking; feel free to adjust salt and pepper.
• Add Vegetables: For extra nutrition, incorporate vegetables like carrots or mushrooms during cooking.
• Thicken the Gravy: If you prefer thicker gravy, mix cornstarch with water and add it toward the end.
• Store Leftovers Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy

Pairing side dishes with your Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes
   A traditional pairing that absorbs all that delicious gravy.
2. Steamed Broccoli
   Provides a healthy contrast to the rich flavors of beef tips.
3. Garlic Bread
   Perfect for soaking up any leftover gravy on your plate.
4. Coleslaw
   A crunchy, refreshing side that adds texture to your meal.
5. Baked Sweet Potatoes
   Their natural sweetness complements the savory beef nicely.
6. Corn on the Cob
   A sweet addition that works well with hearty dishes like this one.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy, a few common mistakes can affect your dish’s outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using Too Much Liquid: Adding excess broth or water can dilute the flavor of the gravy. Stick to the recommended amounts for best results.
• Not Browning the Meat: Skipping the browning step can lead to less flavorful beef tips. Searing the meat first enhances the overall taste.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Cooking for too long or too short can affect texture and flavor. Always stick to the suggested cooking times for optimal tenderness.
• Overseasoning: Using too much salt or seasoning can overpower your dish. Taste as you go and adjust accordingly.
• Not Letting it Rest: Serving immediately after cooking can make the meat tough. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before serving for better texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy

• Freeze in a sealed container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot throughout.
• Stovetop: Reheat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until steaming hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other cuts of beef for Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy?

Yes, you can use cuts like chuck roast or sirloin tips. Just ensure they are cut into bite-sized pieces.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy, use gluten-free onion soup mix and beef broth.

What should I serve with this dish?

This savory dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles for a complete meal.

How do I thicken the gravy?

For thicker gravy, remove some liquid towards the end of cooking and whisk in cornstarch dissolved in water before returning it to the slow cooker.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Consider adding carrots, mushrooms, or pearl onions halfway through cooking for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy is a comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Its rich flavor pairs well with various sides, making it versatile. Feel free to customize it by adding vegetables or adjusting seasonings according to your taste!