There’s something magical about a plate of tender Beef Tips with Gravy served over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles. The rich, savory aroma fills my kitchen with warmth, transporting me back to Sunday dinners at my grandmother’s house. This Beef Tips with Gravy recipe has been my go-to comfort food for years—each bite delivers morsels of beef so tender they practically melt in your mouth, all enveloped in a silky, flavor-packed gravy that clings to every bite. What makes this version special isn’t just the incredible depth of flavor, but how accessible it is for home cooks of any skill level. The slow-cooking process transforms even tougher cuts of beef into succulent morsels, while the gravy develops a complexity that tastes like you’ve been cooking all day (even when you haven’t). Stay with me to discover how this humble dish can become your family’s new favorite comfort food classic.
Why You’ll Love This Beef Tips with Gravy Recipe
If you’ve ever struggled with tough, chewy beef or bland, lackluster gravy, this Beef Tips with Gravy recipe solves those problems in one delicious swoop. The first time I made this for my in-laws, my father-in-law—a notoriously picky eater—requested the recipe before he’d even finished his plate. Three helpings later, I knew I had a winner on my hands.
Unlike traditional methods that require precise technique, this Beef Tips with Gravy recipe is wonderfully forgiving. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, the straightforward approach yields consistently excellent results. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility—it works beautifully with a variety of beef cuts and can be prepared in a slow cooker, Instant Pot, or traditional Dutch oven depending on your schedule and preference.
What truly sets this Beef Tips with Gravy apart is how it transforms simple, affordable ingredients into a meal that tastes decidedly special. The beef becomes fork-tender, the sauce develops a rich mahogany color, and the aroma will transform your kitchen into something extraordinary. Now, let’s dive into exactly what you’ll need to create this comforting masterpiece in your own kitchen.
Ingredients for Perfect Beef Tips with Gravy
For the Beef
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast or sirloin tips, cut into 1-inch cubes Why it works: Chuck roast offers the perfect balance of meat and fat for Beef Tips with Gravy, becoming incredibly tender during cooking while contributing rich flavor to the gravy. If you prefer leaner meat, sirloin tips work wonderfully but may require slightly less cooking time.
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour Why it works: Dredging the beef in flour before browning creates a beautiful crust on the meat and helps thicken the gravy naturally as it cooks. For gluten-free options, substitute with rice flour or cornstarch.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt Why it works: Kosher salt has larger crystals than table salt, allowing for better control when seasoning the beef. The coarse texture adheres better to the meat, enhancing flavor development.
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Why it works: Freshly ground pepper provides significantly more aromatic compounds than pre-ground, contributing depth to your Beef Tips with Gravy. If you enjoy heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne as well.
For the Aromatics
- 1 large onion, diced (about 1½ cups) Why it works: Onions create the flavor foundation for exceptional Beef Tips with Gravy, releasing natural sugars as they caramelize that enhance the sauce’s complexity. Yellow onions work best, but red or white can substitute in a pinch.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Why it works: Garlic adds a subtle aromatic quality to Beef Tips with Gravy without overwhelming the dish. Freshly minced offers the best flavor, but jarred minced garlic works when you’re short on time.
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (optional but recommended) Why it works: Mushrooms complement beef beautifully, adding umami depth to your Beef Tips with Gravy. Button mushrooms work well, but cremini or portobello mushrooms offer more robust flavor if available.
For the Gravy
- 2 cups beef broth, preferably low-sodium Why it works: Using low-sodium broth allows you to control the salt level in your Beef Tips with Gravy. For maximum flavor, consider using half beef broth and half beef stock.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste Why it works: Tomato paste contains concentrated glutamates that enhance the meatiness of Beef Tips with Gravy without making it taste like tomato. It also adds beautiful color to the gravy.
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce Why it works: This fermented condiment adds complex umami notes to Beef Tips with Gravy that would otherwise require hours more cooking. It’s a crucial ingredient for depth of flavor.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce Why it works: Soy sauce enhances the savory qualities of the beef while adding subtle complexity to the gravy. For gluten-free options, use tamari instead.
- 2 bay leaves Why it works: These unassuming leaves infuse Beef Tips with Gravy with subtle herbal notes during the slow cooking process. Remember to remove them before serving!
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2 sprigs fresh) Why it works: Thyme’s earthy, slightly floral notes complement beef beautifully. Fresh thyme provides brighter flavor, but dried works perfectly in this long-cooked dish.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons cold water (optional, for thickening) Why it works: This slurry allows you to control the final consistency of your Beef Tips with Gravy, creating that perfect silky texture that clings to each piece of beef.
How to Make Beef Tips with Gravy
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
- Pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels. This critical step ensures proper browning—moisture is the enemy of a good sear!
- In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and pepper.
- Toss the beef cubes in the seasoned flour mixture until evenly coated. Shake off excess flour.
Chef’s Tip: Working in batches when browning the beef prevents overcrowding, which would cause the meat to steam rather than sear. A good sear equals maximum flavor for your Beef Tips with Gravy.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add beef cubes in a single layer, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Don’t disturb the meat for 2-3 minutes to develop a deep brown crust.
- Turn pieces and brown on all sides, about 5-6 minutes total per batch. The beef won’t be cooked through—that’s perfect!
- Transfer browned beef to a plate and set aside.
Chef’s Tip: Don’t rush this step! Those browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan (fond) are flavor gold for your Beef Tips with Gravy.
Step 3: Build the Flavor Base
- In the same pot, add another tablespoon of oil if needed.
- Add diced onions and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes, scraping up the flavorful brown bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Add mushrooms (if using) and cook until they release their moisture and begin to brown, about 5 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds—be careful not to burn it!
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes until it darkens slightly, intensifying the flavor foundation of your Beef Tips with Gravy.
Chef’s Tip: The tomato paste needs time to cook and caramelize slightly—this transforms its bright acidity into deep, complex flavors perfect for Beef Tips with Gravy.
Step 4: Create the Gravy
- Slowly pour in beef broth while stirring, scraping up any remaining browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, bay leaves, and thyme.
- Return the browned beef to the pot, including any accumulated juices—these contain concentrated flavor!
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer.
Chef’s Tip: For Beef Tips with Gravy with incredible depth, deglaze the pan with a splash of red wine or bourbon before adding the beef broth.
Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection
- For stovetop method: Cover and simmer gently for 1½ to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until beef is fork-tender.
- For slow cooker method: Transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- For Instant Pot method: Secure the lid, set to Pressure Cook on High for 35 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural release.
Chef’s Tip: You’ll know your Beef Tips with Gravy is done when the meat easily breaks apart with gentle pressure from a fork. If it’s still tough, continue cooking—patience yields tender perfection!
Step 6: Finish the Gravy
- If you prefer a thicker gravy, whisk together cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl.
- Remove bay leaves from the pot.
- Stir the cornstarch slurry into the simmering liquid and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Chef’s Tip: For luxurious Beef Tips with Gravy, stir in 2 tablespoons of butter right at the end. This creates a silky, glossy finish that elevates the entire dish.
Delicious Variations for Beef Tips with Gravy
Mushroom Lover’s Beef Tips
Transform your basic Beef Tips with Gravy into a mushroom lover’s dream by using a medley of wild mushrooms—cremini, shiitake, and oyster mushrooms create incredible depth. Add a splash of sherry when sautéing the mushrooms and finish with fresh thyme leaves for an earthy, sophisticated take on the classic.
Red Wine Beef Tips
For a more complex, company-worthy version of Beef Tips with Gravy, replace half the beef broth with a good-quality dry red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. Add 2-3 sprigs of fresh rosemary along with the thyme, and finish with a touch of good balsamic vinegar for brightness that balances the rich gravy perfectly.
Smoky Bacon Beef Tips
Start your Beef Tips with Gravy by rendering 4-5 strips of thick-cut bacon, then use the bacon fat to brown the beef. Add the crispy bacon pieces back to the dish during the last 30 minutes of cooking. The smoky notes transform the entire dish, creating an irresistible flavor profile that makes this version particularly excellent over cheese grits.
Harvest Beef Tips
For a fall-inspired twist on Beef Tips with Gravy, add 1 cup of cubed butternut squash, 2 diced carrots, and 1 diced parsnip along with the onions. The vegetables will partially break down during cooking, naturally thickening the gravy while adding subtle sweetness that complements the savory beef beautifully.
Mediterranean Beef Tips
Create a bright, herb-forward version by adding diced bell peppers with the onions and incorporating olives, capers, and a strip of orange zest during the slow-cooking process. Finish with fresh parsley and oregano for a Mediterranean-inspired twist on traditional Beef Tips with Gravy that’s magnificent served over creamy polenta.
Beef Tips with Gravy
Equipment
- Large bowl
Ingredients
For the Beef
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast or sirloin tips cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour or rice flour/cornstarch for gluten-free
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
For the Aromatics
- 1 large onion diced (about 1½ cups)
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 8 oz mushrooms sliced (optional but recommended)
For the Gravy
- 2 cups beef broth preferably low-sodium
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp dried thyme or 2 sprigs fresh
- 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp cold water optional, for thickening
- Optional Additions for Variations
- Red wine for depth of flavor
- Butternut squash carrots, parsnips (for a fall-inspired version)
- Bacon for a smoky variation
- Bell peppers olives, capers, and orange zest (for a Mediterranean twist)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
- Pat beef dry and toss in a bowl with flour, salt, and pepper. Shake off excess flour.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
- Heat oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Brown beef in batches, turning to sear all sides. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Build the Flavor Base
- Add onions to the pot and cook until translucent.
- Add mushrooms (if using) and cook until browned.
- Stir in garlic and cook briefly, then add tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes.
Step 4: Create the Gravy
- Slowly pour in beef broth, scraping the pan to lift browned bits.
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, bay leaves, and thyme.
- Return beef to the pot along with accumulated juices.
Step 5: Cook Until Tender
- Stovetop: Simmer for 1.5 – 2 hours.
- Slow Cooker: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Instant Pot: Pressure cook on high for 35 minutes, then allow a 10-minute natural release.
Step 6: Finish the Gravy
- Remove bay leaves.
- If needed, thicken gravy with cornstarch slurry, stirring until thickened.
- For extra richness, stir in 2 tbsp butter before serving.
Notes
- Storage: Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding broth if needed.
- Serving Suggestions: Best over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, polenta, or rice.
- Gluten-Free: Use cornstarch or rice flour instead of flour; swap soy sauce for tamari.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions About Beef Tips with Gravy
What’s the best cut of beef to use for Beef Tips with Gravy?
Chuck roast is my top recommendation for Beef Tips with Gravy because it has excellent marbling that breaks down during cooking, creating tender meat and flavorful gravy. Sirloin tips are a leaner alternative that still offers good results with slightly less cooking time. Avoid using pre-packaged “stew meat,” which often contains mixed cuts that cook unevenly.
Can I make Beef Tips with Gravy ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, Beef Tips with Gravy often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Make it up to 3 days ahead, refrigerate in an airtight container, and gently reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to adjust the consistency.
How do I store and reheat leftover Beef Tips with Gravy?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For the best texture when reheating, warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat rather than using the microwave, which can make the meat tough. For longer storage, freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months—the gravy helps protect the meat from freezer burn.
My gravy is too thin. How can I thicken it?
If your Beef Tips with Gravy has a thin sauce, make a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water until smooth. Bring your gravy to a simmer, then whisk in half the slurry. Cook for 2-3 minutes before deciding if you need more. Alternatively, you can remove some of the liquid, create a roux in a separate pan with butter and flour, then whisk the roux into the simmering gravy.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! To make gluten-free Beef Tips with Gravy, substitute the all-purpose flour with either rice flour or a gluten-free flour blend when dredging the beef. Use tamari instead of soy sauce, and ensure your beef broth is certified gluten-free (many commercial brands contain wheat derivatives).
What’s the best way to serve Beef Tips with Gravy?
While egg noodles and mashed potatoes are classic accompaniments for Beef Tips with Gravy, don’t overlook other wonderful options like creamy polenta, rice pilaf, or even thick slices of buttered sourdough bread. For a lower-carb option, try serving over cauliflower mash or roasted root vegetables that will soak up the delicious gravy.
A Family Tradition in the Making
The first time I made these Beef Tips with Gravy for my daughter after she returned from college, she looked up mid-bite with that look of home-cooked recognition that every cook treasures. “This tastes like Sunday,” she said simply. That’s exactly what this dish represents to me—the perfect balance between tradition and comfort, between familiar techniques and personal touches that make a recipe uniquely yours.
What I love most about sharing this Beef Tips with Gravy recipe is knowing that it will adapt and evolve in your kitchen just as it has in mine over the years. Perhaps you’ll add your grandmother’s secret ingredient or discover a new herb combination that becomes your signature version. The beauty of comfort food classics like this lies in their ability to connect us—to our past, to our loved ones, and to the simple pleasure of gathering around a table.
As the tender beef melts on your tongue and the rich gravy warms you from the inside out, I hope this dish brings the same sense of contentment to your table that it has to mine. After all, the best recipes aren’t just about feeding our bodies—they’re about nourishing our connections to each other. From my kitchen to yours, enjoy every savory, comforting bite of these Beef Tips with Gravy.
I LOVE IT
I absolutely love Panera Bread’s Chicken Salad! It’s the perfect blend of fresh ingredients and delicious flavors. The chicken is always tender and well-seasoned, and the combination of crisp celery, crunchy pecans, and sweet grapes creates a perfect balance of textures and tastes. The creamy dressing ties everything together beautifully without being too heavy.
Whether I have it on a sandwich, with a side salad, or just by itself, it never disappoints. It’s a great option for a light yet satisfying meal. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a refreshing and tasty chicken salad.