If you’re craving a warm, hearty meal that feels like a comforting hug, you can’t go wrong with this Crockpot Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe. The tender chunks of beef melt in your mouth, perfectly soaking up the rich, savory gravy made from a delightful blend of mushroom soup, onion soup mix, and brown gravy mix. Slow cooking these flavors together creates a luscious dish that makes weeknight dinners or Sunday suppers extra special without requiring tons of effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Crockpot Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and that smooth, comforting texture that makes this dish a classic. Here’s what you’ll gather to get started:
- 2 pounds beef stew meat or sirloin tips: The star of the dish; choose well-marbled meat for ultimate tenderness and flavor.
- 1 medium onion, sliced: Adds sweetness and depth to the gravy as it slowly cooks.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a subtle aromatic kick that complements the beef perfectly.
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup: Creates a creamy base for the gravy that’s rich and comforting.
- 1 packet (1 ounce) brown gravy mix: Enhances the savory, hearty notes of the sauce.
- 1 packet (1 ounce) onion soup mix: A secret weapon for boosting flavor with minimal effort.
- 2 cups beef broth: Keeps everything juicy and melds flavors together beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a slight tangy umami boost that balances richness.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional): Use this to thicken the gravy if you want it extra luscious.
- 1 tablespoon water (optional): Mixed with cornstarch for thickening without clumps.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors to life.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbal finish.
How to Make Crockpot Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by cutting your beef into chunks if not pre-cut, and slice the onion thinly to ensure it softens perfectly during cooking. Mince the garlic cloves so their flavor can disperse evenly. Once everything is prepped, you’re ready to layer your ingredients into the crockpot.
Step 2: Assemble in the Slow Cooker
Place those beef tips right into the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker, followed by the onions and garlic on top. This simple layering allows the beef to soak up the juicy flavors from the broth and seasonings as everything cooks low and slow.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, brown gravy mix, onion soup mix, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. This blend creates a rich, savory gravy that will envelop your beef in tender, flavorful goodness.
Step 4: Combine and Cook
Pour the sauce over the beef and onions, and give a gentle stir to combine everything without breaking up the beef chunks. Then cover and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours, or on high for 4 to 5 hours. The slow cooking tenderizes the beef to perfection and lets the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 5: Thicken the Gravy (Optional)
If you like a thicker gravy, mix the cornstarch and water together in a small bowl and stir this slurry into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Keep the lid slightly ajar so the sauce can thicken up into that perfect luscious consistency.
How to Serve Crockpot Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing your Crockpot Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe with fresh parsley is not just about looks—this herb adds a fresh, vibrant note that contrasts delightfully with the rich, savory gravy. You can sprinkle chopped parsley right before serving for that lively pop of green and flavor.
Side Dishes
This dish practically begs to be served over creamy mashed potatoes, which soak up every bit of that luscious gravy. If you want a change, fluffy rice or buttery egg noodles make equally excellent bases to showcase the tender beef and sauce. For an extra touch of color and crunch, steamed green beans or roasted carrots are perfect choices alongside.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress? Serve the beef tips atop a bed of garlic mashed potatoes or creamy polenta and drizzle extra gravy on top. You might also layer it into a warm biscuit or puff pastry for a hearty hand-held option. For family-style dinners, place the slow cooker right in the center of the table with bowls of sides so everyone can dig in and customize their plates.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Crockpot Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness, and the flavors will deepen even more as the beef continues to soak in the gravy overnight.
Freezing
If you want to save some for a later craving, this dish freezes beautifully. Place cooled beef tips and gravy into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. They’ll hold up well for up to 3 months, making for a perfect quick meal after busy days.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge and then warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. If reheating from fresh, microwave on medium power or reheat in a covered pan, adding a splash of broth if the gravy has thickened too much to keep it saucy and comforting.
FAQs
Can I brown the beef before adding it to the crockpot?
Absolutely! Searing the beef tips in a hot skillet before slow cooking adds a wonderful depth of flavor and enhances the color of the beef, making the final dish even more irresistible.
Is it necessary to use the soup mixes, or can I substitute them?
While the soup mixes bring a classic flavor combination and ease, you can substitute with homemade seasoning blends and beef bouillon for a fresher, less processed version. Just adjust salt and seasoning accordingly.
How can I make the gravy thicker without cornstarch?
If you prefer not to use cornstarch, you can reduce the gravy by cooking uncovered for the last hour, or whisk in a flour slurry instead. Another trick is adding a mashed potato flake or two to thicken it naturally.
Can I use this recipe with a different type of meat?
Definitely! While beef tips are traditional here, you can try the recipe with cubed pork shoulder or even boneless chicken thighs if you want a different twist. Cooking times may vary slightly.
What sides pair best with Crockpot Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe?
The classic pairing is mashed potatoes to soak up every spoonful of gravy, but rice, egg noodles, or even roasted root vegetables all complement this rich, homestyle dish beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe is one of those meals that feels like home as soon as you tuck into it. It’s easy to make, wonderfully flavorful, and perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or simply savoring with your loved ones. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite comfort food.
Print
Crockpot Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7-8 hours (low) or 4-5 hours (high)
- Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes (based on low setting)
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
This Crockpot Beef Tips and Gravy recipe offers tender, flavorful chunks of beef simmered to perfection in a rich mushroom and onion gravy. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, this comforting slow cooker dish is easy to prepare and pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
Ingredients
Beef and Vegetables
- 2 pounds beef stew meat or sirloin tips, cut into chunks
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Gravy Base
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 packet (1 ounce) brown gravy mix
- 1 packet (1 ounce) onion soup mix
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Optional Thickener
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening)
Seasoning and Garnish
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the slow cooker: Place the beef tips at the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic evenly on top of the beef.
- Mix the gravy: In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, brown gravy mix, onion soup mix, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
- Add gravy and combine: Pour the gravy mixture over the beef and vegetables in the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
- Cook the beef: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours, until the beef is tender and cooked through.
- Thicken the gravy (optional): If a thicker gravy is desired, mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry, then stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Leave the lid slightly ajar to allow the sauce to thicken.
- Serve: Spoon the beef tips and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired and enjoy.
Notes
- For enhanced flavor, brown the beef tips in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator and taste even better the next day.
- Ideal for meal prep or cozy family dinners.
