Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy

This comforting and savory slow cooker recipe features tender beef tips simmered in a rich, flavorful gravy. It’s the perfect dinner for busy weeknights or cozy family meals. Serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles for a hearty and satisfying dish.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Slow Cooker Meal – Set it and forget it.
• Tender, Juicy Beef – Slow cooking makes the beef melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
• Rich, Savory Gravy – Packed with flavor from beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and onion soup mix.
• Versatile Serving Options – Pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.
• Family-Friendly – Loved by kids and adults alike.

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Part 1: Ingredients & Step-by-Step Instructions

Essential Tools & Equipment

• 6-quart slow cooker – The ideal size for this recipe.
• Mixing bowl – Used to whisk together the gravy ingredients.
• Whisk – Helps to mix the cornstarch smoothly.
• Tongs – Useful for handling the beef.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds beef stew meat (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 packet (1 ounce) dry onion soup mix
• 2 cups beef broth
• 3 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons minced garlic
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef

• Pat the beef dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
• Place the beef in the slow cooker.

2. Mix the Seasonings

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

3. Cook the Beef Tips

• Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
• Cook on low for 7 to 8 hours or until the beef is tender.

4. Serve

• Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles.

Serving Suggestions

Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy pairs well with a variety of side dishes that complement its rich and savory flavors. Here are some of the best options:

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes – A classic choice that soaks up the flavorful gravy.
• Steamed White or Brown Rice – A simple and hearty base for the beef tips.
• Buttered Egg Noodles – Adds texture and works well with the thick gravy.
• Roasted Vegetables – Carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans add color and nutrition.
• Simple Green Salad – A light and fresh contrast to the richness of the dish.
• Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up any extra gravy.
• Sautéed Mushrooms – Enhances the umami flavors of the beef.
• Cauliflower Mash – A great low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using the Wrong Cut of Meat

For the best results, use stew meat, chuck roast, or sirloin tips. These cuts become tender when slow-cooked, while leaner cuts may dry out.

2. Skipping the Cornstarch

Cornstarch is essential for thickening the gravy. Without it, the consistency may be too thin. If needed, mix additional cornstarch with water and stir it in at the end of cooking.

3. Not Cooking Long Enough

Slow cooking works best when the beef has plenty of time to break down and become tender. Cooking for at least 7 to 8 hours on low is ideal. If cooked for a shorter time, the meat may be tough.

4. Overcrowding the Slow Cooker

For even cooking, spread the beef evenly in the slow cooker. Overcrowding can prevent the meat from cooking properly and may result in uneven tenderness.

5. Forgetting to Season Properly

Taste the gravy before serving and adjust the salt and pepper if needed. The flavors will develop over time, but a final seasoning adjustment can enhance the dish.

Recipe Tips & Variations

1. Make It Gluten-Free

Use a gluten-free onion soup mix and beef broth to ensure the dish is gluten-free.

2. Add Vegetables

For extra flavor and nutrition, add mushrooms, carrots, or pearl onions. These can be added halfway through the cooking time to prevent them from becoming too soft.

3. Adjust the Gravy Consistency

If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix 1 to 2 teaspoons of cornstarch with a small amount of cold water, then stir it into the slow cooker near the end of cooking. Let it simmer for a few minutes to thicken.

4. Add a Spicy Kick

For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

5. Enhance the Flavor

A splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar can add depth to the gravy. Add it along with the other liquid ingredients for a richer taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days.

Freezer

Freeze in a sealed freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months. For the best results, let it cool completely before freezing.

Reheating

• Stovetop: Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Microwave: Reheat in short bursts, stirring between each interval to ensure even heating.
• Slow Cooker: If reheating a large portion, place it back in the slow cooker on low for about an hour.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, chuck roast, sirloin tips, or round steak work well in this recipe.

2. How do I make the gravy thicker?

Add 1 to 2 teaspoons of cornstarch mixed with cold water, then stir it into the slow cooker and let it simmer until thickened.

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

Yes, but low for 7 to 8 hours is best for the most tender beef. If cooking on high, reduce the cooking time to 4 to 5 hours.

4. Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes. Use the sauté function to brown the beef first, then pressure cook on high for 35 minutes with a natural release.

5. What can I substitute for Worcestershire sauce?

Soy sauce or balsamic vinegar can be used for a similar umami flavor.

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Final Thoughts

Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy is an easy, flavorful, and satisfying meal that requires minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the work, creating tender, fall-apart beef in a rich, savory gravy. Serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles for a hearty, comforting dish perfect for any occasion.