If you’ve been searching for a comforting, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe is exactly what you need. Tender chunks of beef stew meat simmer slowly in a rich, flavorful gravy that tastes like it’s been lovingly crafted all day long. This dish is pure comfort food gold, perfect for cozy family dinners or when you want to impress guests without standing over the stove for hours. The magic is in the slow cooking that turns simple ingredients into a luscious sauce paired with melt-in-your-mouth beef—you’ll want to make this one again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Choosing the right ingredients is half the pleasure and success of this Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe. Each item plays a key role, contributing depth, richness, and that irresistible savory character that makes the dish unforgettable.
- 2 lbs beef stew meat (cut into 1-inch cubes): The star of the dish that becomes wonderfully tender with slow cooking.
- 1 packet onion soup mix: Adds savory onion flavor and herbs without extra effort.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) beef broth: Provides a rich liquid base for the gravy that’s full of meaty goodness.
- ¼ cup water: Helps balance the broth and soup mix for the perfect consistency.
- ¼ cup soy sauce: Gives the gravy a deep, umami flavor boost.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Introduces tangy complexity that enhances the beefiness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Delivers fragrant garlic notes that blend beautifully with other spices.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Reinforces the onion flavor layered with the soup mix.
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Offers just the right amount of subtle heat to round out the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch: Used to thicken the gravy into a luscious sauce.
- 2 tablespoons cold water: Mixed with cornstarch to make a smooth slurry that won’t clump.
How to Make Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Start by placing your cubed beef stew meat directly into the bottom of the Crock Pot. Using good quality stew meat makes a big difference as it becomes tender and juicy during the slow cook, soaking up all the delicious flavors of the gravy.
Step 2: Mix the Gravy Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the onion soup mix, beef broth, water, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. This mixture is the heart of your gravy and will bring layers of savory, rich taste to the beef tips.
Step 3: Combine and Cook
Pour the gravy mixture over the beef in the Crock Pot, then stir gently to coat the meat evenly. Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours, or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours, until the beef is incredibly tender and practically melts in your mouth.
Step 4: Thicken the Gravy
If you prefer a thicker, more velvety gravy, blend together 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a smooth slurry. Stir this into the Crock Pot and cook on HIGH for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the gravy to thicken beautifully.
Step 5: Ready to Serve
Your Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe is now perfectly cooked and ready to be served. The beef should be tender, and the gravy rich and satisfying—truly comfort food at its finest.
How to Serve Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped chives adds a burst of color and a fresh taste that brightens the rich gravy. For a touch of indulgence, a dollop of sour cream on top can make every bite even more luscious.
Side Dishes
This dish shines brightest when served over buttery mashed potatoes, but it is equally fantastic with fluffy white rice or buttered egg noodles. These sides soak up the savory gravy and make each mouthful pure bliss.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, present the beef tips and gravy in individual serving bowls with a side of roasted root vegetables or a crisp green salad. You can also spoon the beef and gravy over puff pastry shells for an elegant twist that will impress anyone at your table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The beef tips and gravy will stay delicious for up to 3 days, making for easy next-day meals that feel just as comforting.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully. Portion the beef tips and gravy into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Adding a splash of water or broth can help loosen the gravy if it has thickened too much. You can also reheat in the microwave, just cover and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Absolutely! While stew meat is ideal for slow cooking due to its tenderness after hours of cooking, you can also use chuck roast cut into cubes for similar results.
Is there a way to make the gravy richer?
Yes! Adding a splash of heavy cream or sour cream at the end of cooking can enrich the gravy and add a lovely creaminess if you like.
Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Definitely. Use the sauté function to brown the beef first, then cook under high pressure for about 35-40 minutes. Use the sauté mode afterward to thicken the gravy with the cornstarch slurry.
What if I don’t have onion soup mix?
You can create your own blend with dried onion flakes, beef bouillon, parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. It won’t be exactly the same but still flavorful.
Can I add vegetables to the Crock Pot?
Feel free to add sturdy vegetables like carrots and mushrooms. Add them at the start so they have time to soften and absorb the delicious gravy flavors.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe that makes it a beloved classic. It’s simple to prepare, bursting with flavor, and melts any stress about dinner prep away. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or a weekend comfort meal, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try and discover why it’s a favorite for so many!
Print
Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 to 8 hours on LOW or 3 to 4 hours on HIGH
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy recipe delivers tender, juicy beef stew meat slow-cooked to perfection in a savory onion soup-based gravy. Perfect for an easy, comforting meal, the beef tips can be served over mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles for a satisfying dinner any day of the week.
Ingredients
Beef and Seasoning
- 2 lbs beef stew meat (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 packet onion soup mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Liquid Ingredients
- 1 can (10.5 oz) beef broth
- ¼ cup water
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Thickening Slurry
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
Instructions
- Prepare the beef: Place the beef stew meat in the bottom of your Crock Pot to create an even layer for cooking.
- Mix the gravy base: In a separate bowl, thoroughly combine the onion soup mix, beef broth, water, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until well incorporated.
- Add gravy to beef: Pour the gravy mixture evenly over the beef in the Crock Pot and stir gently to coat all the meat.
- Slow cook the beef: Cover the Crock Pot and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender and juicy.
- Prepare thickening slurry: If a thicker gravy is desired, mix 2 tablespoons cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water to form a smooth slurry.
- Thicken the gravy: Stir the cornstarch slurry into the Crock Pot, then cook on HIGH for an additional 10-15 minutes until the gravy has thickened to your liking.
- Serve: Spoon the beef tips and rich gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles for a comforting meal.
Notes
- For best results, do not remove the lid frequently during cooking as it increases cooking time.
- Adjust the seasoning to taste before serving, adding salt or pepper if needed.
- To make the dish gluten-free, ensure the soy sauce is gluten-free or substitute with tamari.
- This recipe can be doubled or halved depending on your slow cooker size and serving needs.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop.
