Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy

Tender beef tips are slow-cooked to perfection in a rich, flavorful gravy, making this dish an ideal comfort food for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles for a satisfying, hearty meal.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker does all the work!
Melt-in-Your-Mouth Beef: Long, slow cooking makes the beef irresistibly tender.
Rich & Savory Gravy: A flavorful blend of broth, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make ahead and store for easy meals.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy over mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker (6-quart or larger) – Ensures even cooking and tender beef.
• Mixing Bowl – For preparing the broth and seasonings.
• Whisk – Helps dissolve cornstarch and blend the sauce.
• Tongs – Useful for handling the beef.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons – For accurate ingredient portions.

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Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef stew meat (chuck roast or sirloin tips work best)
• 1 (1 oz) packet dry onion soup mix (use gluten-free if needed)
• 2 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
• 3 tbsp ketchup (adds subtle sweetness and depth)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (rich umami flavor)
• 3 tbsp minced garlic (for extra depth and aroma)
• ½ tsp dried thyme (adds earthy undertones)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Gravy

• 3 tbsp cornstarch (for thickening the gravy)
• Optional: 1-2 tsp cornstarch mixed with water for extra thickness

Optional Additions: Carrots, mushrooms, or pearl onions for extra flavor.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef

• Pat the stew meat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps in better browning and flavor absorption.
• Place the beef in a 6-quart slow cooker.

2. Mix the Seasonings

• In a medium bowl, whisk together:
  • Beef broth
  • Dry onion soup mix
  • Dried thyme
  • Minced garlic
  • Ketchup
  • Worcestershire sauce
  • Cornstarch (for thickening the sauce)
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Pour the mixture evenly over the beef in the slow cooker, ensuring the meat is fully coated.

3. Slow Cook to Perfection

• Cover the slow cooker with a lid.
• Cook on low for 7-8 hours (or high for 4-5 hours).
• Stir occasionally if possible to mix the flavors.

4. Thicken the Gravy (Optional Step)

• If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix 1-2 teaspoons cornstarch with a small amount of water to form a slurry.
• Stir the mixture into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

5. Serve & Enjoy

• Spoon the beef tips and gravy over:
  • Mashed potatoes
  • Rice
  • Noodles
• Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of black pepper for extra flavor.

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Notes & Variations

Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free onion soup mix and gluten-free beef broth.

For Extra Flavor: Sear the beef in a hot skillet before adding it to the slow cooker.

Add Vegetables: Try carrots, mushrooms, or pearl onions for added depth.

Low-Sodium Option: Use low-sodium beef broth and reduce the salt.

Make it Spicier: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is best served with a hearty base to soak up the rich, savory gravy. Here are some classic and creative serving options:

• Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes create the perfect base for the tender beef and thick gravy.
• Buttered Egg Noodles – A simple yet delicious pairing that complements the rich sauce.
• White or Brown Rice – A great option to keep the meal light while still hearty.
• Cauliflower Mash – A low-carb alternative that still provides a creamy texture.
• Crusty Bread or Dinner Rolls – Perfect for scooping up extra gravy.
• Roasted Garlic Potatoes – Adds a crispy contrast to the soft, tender beef.
• Polenta – A creamy, slightly sweet option that pairs well with the deep beef flavors.
• Biscuits – A Southern-inspired pairing that soaks up the sauce beautifully.

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Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

1. Using the Wrong Cut of Meat

• Mistake: Choosing lean cuts like sirloin can result in dry, tough beef.
• Solution: Use stew meat, chuck roast, or sirloin tips, which become more tender with slow cooking.

2. Overcooking on High Heat

• Mistake: Cooking on high for too long can cause the meat to dry out.
• Solution: Low and slow (7-8 hours on low) is the best method for tender beef.

3. Not Searing the Meat (Optional, but Recommended)

• Mistake: Skipping the browning step can result in less depth of flavor.
• Solution: Sear the beef in a pan before adding it to the slow cooker to enhance the taste.

4. Not Thickening the Gravy Properly

• Mistake: The gravy may turn out too thin if cornstarch is not used correctly.
• Solution: Mix 1-2 teaspoons of cornstarch with a small amount of cold water before adding it to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes.

5. Underseasoning the Dish

• Mistake: Not adjusting salt and pepper before serving.
• Solution: Taste the dish after cooking and adjust seasoning as needed.

6. Forgetting to Stir Occasionally

• Mistake: Leaving the dish unattended the entire time can cause uneven cooking.
• Solution: If possible, give it a gentle stir every couple of hours to mix the flavors.

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8 Perfect Side Dishes

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – A creamy, buttery base to soak up the gravy.
2. Buttered Egg Noodles – A simple and classic pairing.
3. Steamed Broccoli – A fresh, nutritious contrast to the rich dish.
4. Roasted Carrots – Adds natural sweetness and extra texture.
5. Buttery Dinner Rolls – Great for mopping up the delicious gravy.
6. Green Beans Almondine – A crisp, nutty side dish for balance.
7. Cauliflower Mash – A low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes.
8. Cornbread – A slightly sweet, Southern-style accompaniment.

Recipe Tips for Best Results

• For Extra Flavor: Sear the beef in a pan before adding it to the slow cooker to enhance the depth of taste.
• For a Thicker Gravy: Mix one to two teaspoons of cornstarch with water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes.
• For a Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free onion soup mix and beef broth.
• To Add Vegetables: Include carrots, mushrooms, or pearl onions for extra texture and flavor.
• For a Low-Sodium Version: Use low-sodium beef broth and reduce the amount of salt in the seasoning.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigeration

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days.
• Let the beef and gravy cool before refrigerating to prevent condensation buildup.

Freezing

• Place the cooled beef tips and gravy in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag.
• Store in the freezer for up to three months.
• Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
• To thaw, transfer the container to the refrigerator and let it defrost overnight.

Reheating

Microwave Method

• Place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish.
• Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
• Add a splash of beef broth or water if the gravy has thickened too much.

Stovetop Method

• Heat in a saucepan over medium-low heat.
• Stir occasionally and add a little broth or water to maintain the right consistency.
• Simmer until heated thoroughly.

Slow Cooker Method

• If reheating a large portion, place the beef tips and gravy back in the slow cooker.
• Heat on low for one to two hours, adding a small amount of broth if needed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes. Chuck roast, sirloin tips, and stew meat work best because they become tender when slow-cooked.

2. How can I make this gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free onion soup mix and beef broth. Double-check that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

3. Can I cook this on high instead of low?

Yes, but the beef will be more tender if cooked on low for seven to eight hours. If short on time, cook on high for four to five hours.

4. How do I thicken the gravy if it is too thin?

Mix one to two teaspoons of cornstarch with cold water, then stir it into the slow cooker 30 minutes before serving.

5. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes. Carrots, mushrooms, and pearl onions are great additions. Add them halfway through cooking for the best texture.

6. What is the best way to serve beef tips and gravy?

This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, roasted vegetables, or biscuits.

7. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes. Slow-cooked beef tips and gravy taste even better the next day as the flavors meld. Store in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

8. Can I use flour instead of cornstarch?

Yes, but cornstarch provides a smoother and glossier texture. If using flour, mix it with a small amount of cold water to form a slurry before adding it to the slow cooker.

9. What should I do if the gravy is too thick after refrigeration?

Add a splash of beef broth or water while reheating to loosen the gravy.

10. Can I use a different type of soup mix?

Yes, but onion soup mix provides the best flavor. If substituting, use a beef-flavored or mushroom soup mix.

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Conclusion

Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy is a warm, hearty, and comforting dish that is easy to prepare. The slow cooking process makes the beef tender, while the savory gravy enhances every bite. Whether served over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles, this meal is sure to be a family favorite. It is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or cozy dinners.

Try this recipe today, and enjoy a stress-free, flavorful meal that the whole family will love.