Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy

Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy cooks up seasoned stew meat into a tender, flavorful meal. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, transforming budget-friendly beef into a mouthwatering delight. With minimal effort and just ten ingredients, this recipe is sure to impress your loved ones at any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With only 10 ingredients and minimal hands-on time, this recipe is perfect for busy schedules.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, onion soup mix, and Worcestershire sauce creates a deliciously savory gravy that enhances the beef.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these beef tips over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes for a comforting meal everyone will love.
• Budget-Friendly: Utilizing stew meat makes this dish an economical choice without sacrificing flavor or tenderness.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This meal keeps well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 6-quart slow cooker
• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• 6-quart slow cooker: A large capacity allows for ample servings, perfect for families or meal prepping.
• Medium mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients thoroughly before adding them to the slow cooker.
• Whisk: Ensures that all ingredients are well mixed, creating a consistent flavor throughout the dish.

Ingredients

For the Beef

• 2 lbs stew meat
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp dried thyme

For the Sauce

• 3 tbsp garlic (minced)
• 1 (1 oz) package dry onion soup mix
• 2 cups beef broth
• 3 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 3 tbsp cornstarch

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Place the stew meat in the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker. Ensure it’s spread evenly to allow for proper cooking.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, combine:
1. salt
2. black pepper
3. dried thyme
4. garlic
5. onion soup mix
6. beef broth
7. ketchup
8. Worcestershire sauce
9. cornstarch

Whisk together until well combined, then pour over the beef tips in the slow cooker.

Step 3: Cook on Low

Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 7-8 hours. This long cooking time will ensure the beef becomes tender and flavorful.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooked, serve your Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes. Enjoy every bite of this hearty meal!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy

Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a cozy meal for two, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Over Rice

• Fluffy White Rice: A classic choice that absorbs the rich gravy beautifully.
• Brown Rice: Adds a nutty flavor and more fiber to your meal.

With Noodles

• Egg Noodles: Their texture complements the beef tips perfectly, making for a comforting dish.
• Spaghetti: For an Italian twist, serve the beef tips over spaghetti.

On Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth texture pairs wonderfully with the savory gravy.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Adds an aromatic punch that enhances the overall flavor.

In a Sandwich

• Beef Tip Sandwiches: Serve on crusty bread with some gravy for a satisfying lunch option.

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How to Perfect Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy

Getting the best flavor and texture from your Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy is easy with these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Meat: Using high-quality stew meat ensures tenderness and rich flavor.
• Sear the Meat First: Browning the beef in a skillet adds depth to the flavor before slow cooking.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste during cooking; you can always add more salt or pepper as needed.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs can significantly enhance the dish’s overall taste.
• Thicken the Gravy: If you prefer thicker gravy, mix cornstarch with water and stir it in during the last hour of cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy can enhance its flavors. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans add color and nutrients to your plate.
2. Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw balances the richness of the beef tips.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness complements the savory gravy nicely.
4. Cornbread: Offers a sweet contrast that works well with hearty beef dishes.
5. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that soaks up gravy effortlessly.
6. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad can refresh your palate between bites of savory beef.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy, it’s easy to encounter a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the seasoning – Meat without seasoning can taste bland. Make sure to season your stew meat before cooking for maximum flavor.
• Overcrowding the slow cooker – Filling the crock pot too much can lead to uneven cooking. Stick to the recommended amount of meat for best results.
• Using low-quality beef – Cheap cuts may not tenderize properly. Choose good quality stew meat for a more delicious outcome.
• Ignoring cook times – Cooking for too long or too short can affect texture. Follow the recipe’s timing closely to achieve tender beef tips.
• Not thickening the gravy – If you prefer a thicker gravy, don’t forget to add cornstarch at the right time. Mix it well into the sauce before serving.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow it to cool before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat until warm throughout (about 20-25 minutes).
• Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe dish in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring between each interval until hot.
• Stovetop – Reheat over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth if needed, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy that you might find helpful.

Can I use other cuts of beef for Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy?

Yes, cuts like chuck roast or brisket work well too. They become tender after long cooking.

How can I customize this Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy recipe?

You can add vegetables like carrots and potatoes or change seasonings based on your taste preferences.

Is Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy gluten-free?

The traditional onion soup mix often contains gluten. Look for gluten-free versions or make your own mix.

What should I serve with Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy?

This dish pairs excellently with rice, mashed potatoes, or noodles, enhancing its rich flavor.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before and refrigerate it. Just reheat when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy is an incredible comfort food that transforms budget-friendly ingredients into a delightful meal. The ease of preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights, while its versatility allows you to customize it according to what you have on hand. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!