If you are craving a comforting, savory dish that hugs you from the inside out, then this Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe is exactly what you need. Tender, juicy sirloin tips are seared to perfection and smothered in a luscious, flavorful gravy that has just the right mix of herbs and spices. Every bite bursts with rich, hearty goodness that feels like a warm family dinner no matter when you serve it. This recipe is straightforward to prepare yet delivers incredible depth of flavor that will quickly become one of your go-to meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, everyday ingredients is all it takes to create the magic of this dish. Each component plays its part, contributing to the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color that makes this Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe stand out. From the tender sirloin tips to the fragrant herbs and silky gravy, everything combines to make a truly memorable meal.
- Sirloin tips (1½ lbs): Choose fresh, well-trimmed beef for the best tenderness and flavor.
- Flour (3 tbsp): Helps create a lovely coating on the beef and thickens the gravy.
- Olive oil (3 tbsp): Perfect for searing the beef to a beautiful caramelized crust.
- Brown sugar (1 tsp): Adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory spices.
- Black pepper (¼ tsp): Provides a gentle heat and depth of flavor.
- Salt (½ tsp): Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
- Garlic powder (½ tsp): Offers savory warmth that complements the fresh garlic.
- Onion powder (½ tsp): Boosts the onion flavor with concentrated taste.
- Chili powder (½ tsp): Adds a subtle kick and smoky undertone.
- Paprika (½ tsp): Brings a mild earthiness and rich color.
- Butter (2 tbsp): Creates a silky base for the onions and garlic.
- Yellow onion (1 small, diced): Adds sweetness and body to the gravy.
- Garlic cloves (3, minced): Fresh garlic gives a vibrant, aromatic punch.
- Beef broth (2 cups): The heart of the gravy’s deep, meaty flavor.
- Beef bouillon cube (1): Intensifies the savory taste of the broth.
- Worcestershire sauce (1½ tsp): Adds complexity and a slight tang.
- Dried thyme (¼ tsp): Infuses a subtle, herbaceous note.
- Dried rosemary (¼ tsp): Lends an aromatic, pine-like flavor.
- Onion powder (1 tsp): Double onion flavor for a rich savory base.
- Garlic powder (½ tsp): Extra garlic punch to complement the fresh cloves.
- Cornstarch (3 tbsp): For thickening the gravy to a silky consistency.
- Cold water (¼ cup): Used to mix with cornstarch for the perfect slurry.
How to Make Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Start by cutting your sirloin tips into bite-sized cubes and patting them dry. This step is crucial because moisture on the beef will prevent it from searing properly, which is key to locking in those flavors. In a bowl, mix together the brown sugar, black pepper, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and paprika to create your seasoning blend. Toss the beef cubes in the seasoning until evenly coated, then sprinkle with flour and toss again to ensure each piece has a light, even layer of flour. This prep will give the beef that delicious crust and help thicken the gravy later.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Working in batches, sear the beef for about 30 to 45 seconds per side until browned and caramelized all over. Avoid overcrowding the pan to keep the meat from steaming instead of searing. Once browned, transfer the beef to a plate and set aside. This step locks in the juiciness and creates the deep, savory flavor foundation for your gravy.
Step 3: Build the Gravy Base
With the beef removed, it’s time to add all those good flavors stuck to the pan back into the gravy. Pour in the beef broth and scrape those browned bits off the bottom – this is pure flavor gold. Let the broth reduce by about half, concentrating the taste. Reduce the heat, then add the butter and diced onions. Cook the onions until they’re soft and translucent, stirring regularly so they don’t stick. Add the minced garlic last and cook just until fragrant, about thirty seconds, to avoid burning the garlic’s delicate flavor.
Step 4: Season and Thicken the Gravy
Stir in the beef broth again along with the bouillon cube, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, rosemary, onion powder, and garlic powder. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then whisk together the cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry. Slowly add the slurry to the skillet while stirring continuously to thicken the gravy. You’ll notice it transform into a rich and glossy sauce that perfectly coats the beef.
Step 5: Simmer the Beef in Gravy
Return the seared beef and any accumulated juices back into the skillet with the gravy. Reduce the heat to low, partially cover the pan, and let it simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes. This simmering step tenderizes the meat beautifully while allowing the flavors to meld together into a luscious, hearty dish.
Step 6: Crock Pot Option
If you prefer a hands-off approach, after searing the beef and making the initial gravy, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 7 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours for tender, melt-in-your-mouth results. At the end, stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the gravy just as you would on the stove.
How to Serve Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a simple garnish can elevate your presentation and taste. Fresh chopped parsley or thyme sprigs work wonderfully, contributing a pop of fresh color and a tiny hint of herbal brightness that complements the deep, rich gravy.
Side Dishes
This Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, buttery egg noodles, or even fluffy rice. These sides soak up the gravy perfectly, making each bite even more indulgent. For a lighter contrast, a crisp green vegetable like steamed broccoli or sautéed green beans adds lovely texture and freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the beef tips over a toasted split biscuit or a flaky puff pastry shell to create a cozy, savory pot pie effect. Alternatively, spoon it over baked sweet potatoes for a slightly sweet and savory combination that’s both comforting and unexpected.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, store any leftover beef tips and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a convenient option for weekday lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
This recipe freezes wonderfully. Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. It will keep well for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
When reheating, thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight. Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to bring back its silky consistency. Adding a splash of beef broth if the gravy thickens too much helps refresh the sauce’s luscious texture.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin tips are ideal for their tenderness and quick cooking time, you can also use chuck roast or stew meat. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure the meat becomes tender without drying out.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch for coating the beef. Also, double-check that your beef broth and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free to keep the dish safe for sensitive diets.
Can I prepare this dish in advance for guests?
Definitely. Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe is perfect for making ahead because the flavors deepen as it sits. You can prepare it a day or two ahead, store it in the fridge, and gently reheat just before serving.
How can I make the gravy thicker or thinner?
Adjust the cornstarch slurry amount according to your preferred consistency. Add more slurry for thicker gravy or increase broth slightly if you want it thinner. Remember to whisk well to avoid lumps.
What are some variations to try?
Feel free to experiment by adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or a splash of red wine for extra depth. You can also swap fresh herbs in place of dried, such as adding fresh rosemary sprigs or thyme for a brighter herbal note.
Final Thoughts
This Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe is truly a heartwarming classic that satisfies on every level. It fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and promises a meal that’s both simple and impressive. Whether you’re feeding family or a group of friends, this dish is sure to bring smiles and requests for seconds. I hope you give it a try and quickly make it a cherished favorite in your own recipe collection.
Print
Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic Beef Tips and Gravy recipe features tender sirloin beef tips seared to perfection and simmered in a rich, flavorful gravy made with beef broth, aromatic herbs, and a touch of Worcestershire sauce. Perfectly thickened with a cornstarch slurry, this hearty dish is great served over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for a comforting meal that comes together in under an hour. A crock pot option is included for easy slow cooking if preferred.
Ingredients
Beef and Seasoning
- 1½ lbs sirloin tips
- 3 tbsp flour
- 1 tsp brown sugar
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp paprika
Cooking and Gravy
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 beef bouillon cube
- 1½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ tsp dried thyme
- ¼ tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 3 tbsp corn starch
- ¼ cup cold water
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef: Cut the sirloin into bite-sized cubes and pat them dry with paper towels. In a bowl, mix together all the beef seasoning ingredients including brown sugar, black pepper, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and paprika. Toss the beef cubes with this seasoning mixture until evenly coated. Then, toss the seasoned beef in flour to coat all pieces evenly.
- Sear the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches, searing each side for 30 to 45 seconds until nicely browned. Avoid overcrowding the pan. Once seared, transfer the beef to a plate and set aside.
- Deglaze and Cook Onions: Pour beef broth into the skillet to deglaze, scraping up all the browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Allow the broth to reduce by half, which will concentrate the flavor. Reduce the heat to medium-low, then add butter and diced onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions become soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and stir for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Make the Gravy: To the skillet, add the remaining beef broth, beef bouillon cube, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried rosemary, onion powder, and garlic powder. Increase heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Meanwhile, whisk the cornstarch with cold water to make a slurry. Slowly stir the slurry into the boiling pan to thicken the gravy, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
- Simmer Beef in Gravy: Return the seared beef along with any collected juices from the plate back into the skillet. Reduce heat to low, partially cover the skillet, and let it simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes until the beef is tender and has absorbed the flavors of the gravy.
- Crock Pot Option: If preferred, after searing the beef and preparing the gravy base, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 7 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. Towards the end of cooking, stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the gravy. This method yields very tender beef and hands-off cooking.
Notes
- Patting the beef dry before seasoning helps create a better sear and richer flavor.
- Tossing the beef in flour not only helps brown the meat but also aids in thickening the gravy later.
- Use low to medium heat when cooking onions and garlic to avoid burning and bitterness.
- Adjust seasoning at the end to taste; you can add more salt or Worcestershire sauce if desired.
- The crock pot option is great for meal prep and makes the beef extra tender.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles.
