Are you looking for a delicious, hassle-free meal? Try my Crockpot Beef Tips and Gravy! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a warm, hearty dish that’s perfect for any day. I’ll show you how to combine tender beef, rich gravy, and simple spices for a meal the whole family will love. Let’s dive into this tasty recipe that guarantees comfort and satisfaction!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Comforting Flavor: This dish brings a warm and hearty taste that's perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.
- Simple Preparation: With just a few easy steps and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready with little effort.
- Versatile Serving Options: Whether you serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles, this dish adapts beautifully to your preference.
- Slow Cooker Convenience: Set it and forget it! Let the crockpot do the work while you enjoy your day.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef stew meat
- 1 medium onion
- 3 cloves garlic
Seasoning and Other Ingredients
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
Additional Items
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
The main ingredients are vital for flavor. The beef stew meat gives a hearty taste. The onion adds sweetness, while garlic brings a strong aroma. Each of these ingredients plays a role in making the dish flavorful and satisfying.
Next, we have the seasoning and other ingredients. Beef broth serves as the base for the gravy. Worcestershire sauce adds a tangy depth, and soy sauce brings saltiness. Together, they create a rich flavor profile.
Lastly, the additional items enhance texture and taste. Mushrooms give an earthy note, while olive oil helps with browning. Flour is key for thickening the gravy. Each item contributes to the overall quality of your meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Beef
First, you need to sear the beef stew meat. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add 2 pounds of beef stew meat. Sear the beef until it gets a nice brown color on all sides. This should take about 5 minutes. This step adds flavor.
After searing, transfer the beef to the crockpot. This is where all the magic happens as the beef cooks slowly with other ingredients.
Sautéing Aromatics
Next, it’s time to sauté the onions and garlic. In the same skillet, add 1 medium diced onion and 3 minced cloves of garlic. Sauté them for 2 to 3 minutes. You want the onion to become soft and translucent.
Once they are ready, add them to the crockpot with the beef. This mix will create a rich base for your dish.
Combining Flavors
Now, let’s prepare the broth mixture. In a bowl, combine 1 cup of beef broth, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Add salt to taste. Pour this mixture over the beef and onions in the crockpot.
Next, scatter 1 cup of sliced mushrooms on top of the mixture. They will add a nice texture and flavor.
Now, make a flour slurry. In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour with 1 to 2 tablespoons of water. This will help thicken the gravy. Add this slurry to the crockpot and stir everything together.
Cover the crockpot with the lid. You can cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 4 hours. The beef should be tender, and the gravy should thicken nicely.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Gravy
Using the right cut of beef is key for great flavor. I recommend beef stew meat. It has enough fat to keep the meat tender. For thickening the gravy, mix flour with water to make a slurry. This helps the gravy get rich and thick.
Enhancing Flavor
To boost flavor, consider adding spices like paprika or rosemary. Fresh herbs can also brighten the dish. Marinating the beef in soy sauce and garlic overnight can add depth. It makes the beef even more tasty.
Serving Suggestions
Serve beef tips and gravy over mashed potatoes or rice. These sides soak up the gravy well. For a nice touch, garnish with fresh parsley. It adds color and a bit of freshness. A simple salad on the side can make the meal complete.
Pro Tips
- Choose Quality Beef: Opt for well-marbled beef stew meat for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Don’t Skip the Searing: Searing the beef locks in flavors and adds depth to the dish, so don’t skip this step!
- Let It Cook Low and Slow: For the most tender meat, cook on low for the full 8 hours if you have the time.
- Thicken the Gravy: If you prefer a thicker gravy, add an extra slurry of flour and water towards the end of cooking.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can change the beef in your dish. Try using chuck roast or sirloin instead. These cuts have great flavor too. Feel free to add other veggies. Carrots, peas, or bell peppers can make it colorful and tasty.
Dietary Modifications
For a gluten-free option, use cornstarch instead of flour. This will thicken your gravy without gluten. You can also choose gluten-free soy sauce for flavor. If you want low-sodium options, use low-sodium beef broth. This keeps the dish tasty while lowering salt.
Cooking Method Alternatives
If you want to speed things up, try the Instant Pot. Cook the beef on high pressure for about 35 minutes. You’ll get the same rich flavor in less time. For a stovetop method, brown the beef in a pot first. Then, add all ingredients and simmer for about 1.5 hours. Stir occasionally until the meat is tender.
Storage Info
Storing Cooked Beef Tips
To keep your beef tips fresh, store them in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container. They stay good for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Label them with the date. They can last for up to three months in the freezer.
Reheating Suggestions
When it's time to eat again, you can reheat your beef tips easily. The best way is to use the microwave. Heat them in short bursts. Stir in between to warm them evenly. You can also reheat them on the stove. Just add a splash of beef broth to keep them moist. Avoid cooking them too long to keep the meat tender.
Shelf Life
Cooked beef tips can stay safe in the fridge for up to three days. If you freeze them, they last about three months. However, always check for spoilage. If the beef looks dry or has an off smell, throw it away. Signs of spoilage include a slimy texture or discoloration. Always trust your senses when it comes to food safety.
FAQs
What can I serve with Crockpot Beef Tips and Gravy?
You can enjoy this dish with many tasty sides. Here are some great options:
- Mashed potatoes
- Rice
- Egg noodles
- Steamed vegetables
- Fresh bread
These sides soak up the rich gravy well. Mashed potatoes are my favorite for this dish. They are creamy and buttery, making every bite a delight.
Can I cook this on a high setting?
Yes, you can cook this dish on high. If you choose the high setting, cook it for about 4 hours. The beef will still be tender, but it may not have the deep flavor that low cooking gives. Cooking on low for 6-8 hours allows the flavors to blend well.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, try these ideas:
- Add red pepper flakes
- Use spicy mustard instead of regular
- Mix in chopped jalapeños
These options will give your dish a nice kick. Start with a little and taste as you go. Adjust until you reach your desired spice level.
This blog post covered all you need for perfect Crockpot Beef Tips and Gravy. We looked at the key ingredients, step-by-step cooking methods, and helpful tips. I shared ways to customize the recipe for your taste and dietary needs. Remember, great dishes come from the right ingredients and techniques. With these tips, you can enjoy a delicious meal that will impress everyone. Try out these ideas and create your own tasty versions!
