Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy

Tender, savory, and irresistibly comforting, Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy is a dish that turns simple ingredients into a flavorful masterpiece. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner. Serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles for a hearty, satisfying meal everyone will love.

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker takes care of the hard work.
• Comfort Food Classic: Rich gravy and tender beef make it a crowd-pleaser.
• Versatile Pairing Options: Works beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.
• Customizable: Add vegetables or adjust seasonings to fit your preferences.

---

Preparation Phase

Essential Tools and Equipment

To ensure a smooth cooking process, you’ll need:

• 6-quart slow cooker: Perfect for even cooking and tender meat.
• Whisk: To create a lump-free, well-mixed gravy.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
• Mixing bowl: To combine the sauce ingredients easily.

Importance of These Tools

• A slow cooker ensures consistent low heat for perfectly tender beef.
• A whisk prevents clumps in the gravy, ensuring a smooth and velvety texture.
• Measuring tools guarantee accuracy, crucial for balancing flavors.

---

Preparation Tips

• Pat Dry the Beef: Removing moisture helps the beef absorb more flavor.
• Layer Evenly: Arrange the beef in a single layer to cook uniformly.
• Fresh Garlic for Flavor: Use freshly minced garlic for a more robust taste.
• Prep in Advance: Combine sauce ingredients the night before for a faster morning setup.

---

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

Ingredient Notes:

• For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free onion soup mix and beef broth.
• Add fresh vegetables like carrots, mushrooms, or pearl onions for variety.

---

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Beef

• Pat the stew meat dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture.
• Place the beef into a 6-quart slow cooker in an even layer.

2. Mix the Seasonings

• In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together:
  • Beef broth
  • Dry onion soup mix
  • Thyme
  • Minced garlic
  • Ketchup
  • Worcestershire sauce
  • Cornstarch
  • Salt and pepper
• Pour the mixture over the beef, ensuring it’s fully coated.

3. Cook

• Cover the slow cooker with its lid.
• Cook on low for 7–8 hours or until the beef is tender and the gravy is rich.

4. Serve

• Stir the beef and gravy well before serving.
• Spoon the beef tips and gravy over your choice of:
  • Mashed potatoes
  • Rice
  • Buttered egg noodles

---

Tips for Variations and Additions

• Vegetable Boost: Add carrots, mushrooms, or pearl onions halfway through cooking for extra nutrition.
• Thicker Gravy: For a thicker consistency, whisk an additional teaspoon of cornstarch with water, stir into the slow cooker, and cook for an extra 10–15 minutes.
• Herb Variations: Add rosemary or parsley for a fresh herbaceous flavor.

Serving Suggestions

To complement the rich and savory Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy, try pairing it with these sides for a complete and satisfying meal:

1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The ultimate pairing that soaks up the flavorful gravy.
2. Steamed White or Brown Rice: A healthier alternative that works beautifully with the sauce.
3. Buttered Egg Noodles: Add a buttery and tender texture to the meal.
4. Garlic Butter Green Beans: A fresh and vibrant side to balance the richness.
5. Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet and savory flavors that pair wonderfully.
6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized and crispy for added depth.
7. Caesar Salad: A crisp, refreshing option to lighten the meal.
8. Crusty Bread or Biscuits: Perfect for sopping up every last drop of gravy.

---

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these pitfalls to ensure your Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy turn out perfectly every time:

1. Overcrowding the Slow Cooker

• Why It Happens: Adding too much meat or liquid.
• Solution: Ensure the beef is in a single layer for even cooking and tender results.

2. Using Low-Quality Beef Cuts

• Why It Matters: Tough or lean cuts can dry out.
• Solution: Opt for well-marbled cuts like chuck roast or stew meat for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

3. Skipping the Cornstarch

• Why It’s Important: It thickens the gravy, giving it that luscious texture.
• Solution: Always whisk cornstarch into the sauce for a smooth consistency.

4. Cooking on High Heat

• Why It’s an Issue: High heat can cause the beef to become tough.
• Solution: Stick to low heat for tender, flavorful beef.

5. Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments

• Why It Happens: Forgetting to taste and adjust.
• Solution: Always taste before serving to balance salt, pepper, and other seasonings.

---

Side Dish Recommendations

Here are some specific recipes and ideas for side dishes that pair perfectly with this dish:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Enhance classic mashed potatoes with roasted garlic for an extra punch.
2. Lemon Herb Rice: Add fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon to rice for brightness.
3. Sauteed Mushrooms: Cook with garlic and butter for a rich, earthy side.
4. Cheddar Biscuits: Warm, cheesy biscuits add comfort to every bite.
5. Steamed Broccoli with Lemon Zest: A simple, healthy addition.
6. Honey-Balsamic Roasted Vegetables: Sweet, tangy, and caramelized to perfection.
7. Spinach Salad with Cranberries and Pecans: Adds crunch and sweetness for variety.
8. Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Crisp and flavorful with a hint of nuttiness.

---

How to Perfect This Recipe Every Time

Season the Beef Generously

• Salt and pepper should coat the beef before it goes into the slow cooker. This builds the foundation for the gravy’s flavor.

Layer Flavors in the Gravy

• Worcestershire sauce and ketchup add complexity. Adjust these to balance sweet and tangy notes.

Check Doneness Without Opening the Lid

• Avoid lifting the lid frequently. This releases heat and extends cooking time.

Finish with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle parsley, thyme, or rosemary over the finished dish for added freshness and aroma.

Recipe Tips for Best Results

1. Adjust the Gravy Thickness
   • For thicker gravy, mix 1–2 teaspoons of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes.
2. Add Vegetables for Variety
   • Toss in carrots, mushrooms, or pearl onions halfway through cooking for extra flavor and nutrients.
3. Use High-Quality Ingredients
   • Choose a well-marbled cut of beef for the most tender results.
   • Opt for low-sodium beef broth to control the dish’s saltiness.
4. Taste and Adjust Seasoning
   • Always taste before serving to ensure the seasoning is balanced. Adjust salt, pepper, and thyme as needed.
5. Don’t Skip the Garlic
   • Freshly minced garlic enhances the dish’s depth and complexity.

---

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

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

Reheating

• Stovetop: Warm in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish, covered, for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway.

Tip: If the gravy thickens too much during reheating, add a splash of beef broth to loosen it.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?

Yes! Use a Dutch oven or a large pot with a lid. Simmer on low heat on the stovetop or bake in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 2–3 hours.

What can I use instead of cornstarch?

You can substitute cornstarch with arrowroot powder or flour. For flour, whisk 1 tablespoon into cold water before adding to avoid lumps.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free onion soup mix and beef broth. Verify that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

What vegetables can I add to this dish?

Carrots, mushrooms, celery, and pearl onions are excellent additions. Add them halfway through the cooking process for optimal texture.

How can I prevent the beef from becoming dry?

Ensure you’re using the right cut of beef, such as stew meat or chuck roast, and always cook on low heat for the recommended time.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, but ensure your slow cooker has enough space for proper cooking. Avoid overfilling to maintain even heat distribution.

What can I serve this dish with?

Mashed potatoes, rice, buttered noodles, or crusty bread are perfect for soaking up the rich gravy.

---

Conclusion

Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy is a recipe that checks all the boxes: it’s comforting, flavorful, and effortless to make. With its tender beef and rich, velvety gravy, this dish is perfect for cozy dinners, meal prepping, or feeding a crowd. Whether served over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles, it promises to satisfy every appetite.

With these expert tips, serving suggestions, and storage instructions, you’re equipped to master this dish and enjoy it anytime. So grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and let the magic happen. This is one recipe you’ll turn to time and time again!