If you love dishes that feel like a cozy hug after a long day, this Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy will instantly win your heart. Tender morsels of browned beef melt into a rich, savory gravy, infusing every bite with soulful comfort food flavor. The magic truly happens in the slow cooker, giving you those home-cooked results with very little hands-on time. Whether you’re looking for an easy family meal or a hearty dish to satisfy your comfort food cravings, Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy blend classic flavors and convenience in the most delicious way possible!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on a handful of pantry staples and budget-friendly beef, but each ingredient adds something special to the Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy. You’ll find there’s no need to complicate things—just simple, honest flavors that come together beautifully.
- Beef Stew Meat or Sirloin Tips: Choose well-marbled cuts for the most melt-in-your-mouth results—about 2 pounds does the trick for 6 generous servings.
- Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps develop a gorgeous sear on the beef—worth the extra step for flavor!
- Onion (diced): Sweetly aromatic, onion melts into the sauce, lending amazing depth and subtle sweetness.
- Beef Broth: This forms the savory backbone of your gravy, elevating every bite with hearty, beefy goodness.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Just two tablespoons add an irresistible umami boost—the secret ingredient you’ll love.
- Garlic Powder: Delivers a gentle burst of garlicky flavor without overpowering the dish.
- Onion Powder: Doubles down on savory notes, enhancing both the beef and the gravy.
- Salt: Essential for brightening all the flavors—start with a teaspoon and adjust to taste.
- Black Pepper: Offers a subtle kick and balances the richness of the gravy.
- Dried Thyme: Brings a floral, earthy note that pairs beautifully with beef and gravy.
- Cold Water: Used to make a lump-free slurry for thickening the sauce without clumping.
- Cornstarch: Just a couple of tablespoons thickens your gravy to glossy perfection.
- Fresh Parsley (optional): Sprinkle on before serving for a pop of color and freshness!
How to Make Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy
Step 1: Sear the Beef (Optional but Recommended)
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your beef stew meat or sirloin tips and sear them on all sides—about 2 to 3 minutes per side should do it. This not only locks in flavor but gives the final dish those tasty browned bits that everyone loves. If you’re in a rush, you can skip this part, but if you want to really develop deep flavor in your Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy, this extra step is worth it.
Step 2: Layer Ingredients in the Crock Pot
Transfer the seared beef (and any juices) straight into your crock pot. Toss in the diced onion, pour in the beef broth, add Worcestershire sauce, sprinkle over the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and thyme. Give everything a gentle stir to combine—your kitchen will already start smelling good!
Step 3: Slow Cook Until Tender
Pop the lid on your crock pot and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The goal is fork-tender beef that practically melts with each bite. This slow process lets all those flavors mingle and develop, transforming simple ingredients into Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy that tastes like you tended to them all day.
Step 4: Thicken the Gravy
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, whisk together cold water and cornstarch in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the crock pot, combining thoroughly. Replace the lid and let the mixture cook for 30 more minutes, allowing the gravy to thicken to that irresistibly silky consistency.
Step 5: Add a Fresh Finish
Once your gravy is thick and beef tips are nice and tender, give it a taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a little color and a hint of freshness. Now it’s ready to ladle over your favorite starch and enjoy!
How to Serve Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley does wonders to brighten up the rich colors and flavors of Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy. If you like a little extra zing, a touch of grated horseradish or even a quick grind of black pepper just before serving can be a flavorful finishing touch.
Side Dishes
This comforting dish is a natural fit with fluffy mashed potatoes, buttery egg noodles, or steamed white or brown rice—each one soaks up that savory gravy beautifully. Want something extra? Roasted vegetables, steamed green beans or a crisp green salad make it a complete meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy over crusty bread or in a bowl with fries for a cozy, poutine-style dinner. You can also make individual pot pies by spooning the hot beef and gravy into ramekins, topping with puff pastry, and baking until golden. Perfect for company or just jazzing up a weeknight!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy cool completely, then transfer leftovers to an airtight container. They’ll keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making them ideal for easy lunches or speedy dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This recipe is freezer-friendly! Spoon cooled beef tips and gravy into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Label and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm leftovers in a covered skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until hot. If needed, add a splash of water or beef broth to loosen the gravy. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring halfway for even heating.
FAQs
Can I make Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy with a different cut of beef?
Absolutely! While stew meat and sirloin tips are classic, you can use chuck roast or even a well-trimmed brisket cut into chunks. Pick marbled cuts for maximum tenderness after slow cooking.
Is it necessary to sear the beef before adding to the crock pot?
No, but it’s highly recommended. Searing develops rich color and a deeper, savory flavor in the Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy. If you’re short on time, you can skip it—your meal will still be tasty!
How can I add more veggies to this dish?
You can boost nutrition and heartiness by adding mushrooms, carrots, or even peas during the slow cooking process. Just add chopped veggies along with the onions, and let the crock pot handle the rest.
What’s the best way to thicken the gravy if I don’t have cornstarch?
If cornstarch isn’t on hand, you can use arrowroot powder (keep it gluten-free!) or make a flour slurry with cold water. Just remember, each thickener behaves differently, so start small and add more as needed for your desired texture.
Can I prepare Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy ahead of time for a party?
Definitely! This recipe is perfect for making ahead. Cook it a day in advance, refrigerate, and reheat gently before your event—the flavors deepen overnight, making it even more delicious for gatherings.
Final Thoughts
If you’re on the hunt for a soul-warming, crowd-pleasing meal with minimal effort, Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy truly belongs in your recipe rotation. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, letting you enjoy rich, tender beef and luscious gravy any night of the week. Give it a try—you’ll see just how simple and satisfying homemade comfort food can be!
