If you’ve been searching for a comforting, flavorful, and downright satisfying dish to add to your dinner rotation, look no further than this Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe. Tender sirloin cubes bathed in a rich, savory gravy create a perfect harmony of textures and tastes that feel like a warm hug from the inside. With its simple ingredients and straightforward method, this recipe brings together the best of hearty home cooking, making every bite delightfully indulgent and perfect for family meals or special occasions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might seem straightforward, but each plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the perfectly seasoned sirloin tips to the carefully balanced spices and thick, luscious gravy, this recipe takes simplicity to a scrumptious level.
- 1½ lbs sirloin tips: The star of the dish, these tender beef cubes become juicy and flavorful when properly seared.
- 3 tbsp flour: Helps create a silky coating on the beef and thickens the gravy beautifully.
- 3 tbsp olive oil: Essential for searing the beef to a golden-brown perfection without sticking.
- 1 tsp brown sugar: Adds a subtle hint of sweetness that balances the savory spices.
- ¼ tsp black pepper: Provides just enough heat to enhance the flavors.
- ½ tsp salt: Brings out the natural flavors of the beef and gravy ingredients.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: Intensifies savory depth without overpowering the dish.
- ½ tsp onion powder: Compliments fresh onions with an extra layer of mild, sweet sharpness.
- ½ tsp chili powder: Introduces a gentle warmth and complexity.
- ½ tsp paprika: Adds color and a smoky undertone.
- 2 tbsp butter: Enriches the gravy and softens the onions.
- 1 small yellow onion, diced: Brings sweetness and texture to the gravy base.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic gives that aromatic punch that makes the whole dish pop.
- 2 cups beef broth: The flavorful foundation for the gravy.
- 1 beef bouillon cube: Enhances the beefy richness.
- 1½ tsp Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami depth and a touch of tang.
- ¼ tsp dried thyme: A subtle herbaceous note that pairs beautifully with beef.
- ¼ tsp dried rosemary: Earthy and fragrant, adding dimension to the gravy.
- 1 tsp onion powder: Another hit of onion flavor for extra savoriness.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: Rounds out the seasoning for a consistent herbal garlicky touch.
- 3 tbsp corn starch: Used to thicken the gravy to a perfect velvety consistency.
- ¼ cup cold water: Combined with cornstarch to create a smooth slurry for thickening.
How to Make Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Beef
Start by cutting your sirloin tips into bite-sized cubes and pat them dry with paper towels—this helps get a good sear. In a mixing bowl, combine all your beef seasoning ingredients: brown sugar, black pepper, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and paprika. Toss the beef in the seasoning mix to coat evenly, then dredge in flour. This coating is key for getting that beautiful crust and thickening the gravy later.
Step 2: Sear the Beef to Lock in Juices
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Place your beef cubes in batches to avoid overcrowding, searing each side for about 30 to 45 seconds until they develop a deep, golden-brown crust. Remove and transfer the seared tips to a plate—you want a nice crust outside, juicy tenderness inside.
Step 3: Build the Flavor Base
With the beef removed, pour in the beef broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up every flavorful browned bit stuck to the bottom—those bits are pure gold. Let the broth reduce by half to intensify. Lower the heat and stir in butter along with diced onions, cooking until the onions are soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and stir for about a minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Combine and Thicken the Gravy
Add the rest of the beef broth, the bouillon cube, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, onion powder, and garlic powder into the skillet. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil. Meanwhile, whisk the cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, then slowly stir it into your gravy, watching it thicken to a luscious, silky consistency.
Step 5: Finish Cooking the Beef in the Gravy
Return your seared beef and any accumulated juices back to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low, partially cover, and let it simmer for 10 to 15 minutes. This step tenderizes the beef further while allowing the flavors to marry beautifully in that rich gravy.
Optional Crock Pot Method
If you prefer a hands-off approach, after searing your beef and preparing the initial gravy, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 7 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until the beef is melt-in-your-mouth tender. Add the cornstarch slurry in the last few minutes to thicken the sauce perfectly.
How to Serve Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
The classic way to elevate your beef tips with gravy is to sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives over the top. The pop of green adds brightness and mild freshness to balance the rich, velvety sauce. For a little extra indulgence, a dollop of sour cream can also provide a tangy twist that complements the deep flavors perfectly.
Side Dishes
This Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or buttered egg noodles that soak up every luscious drop of gravy. Roasted vegetables or steamed green beans on the side add a wholesome crunch and color contrast, making your meal feel both hearty and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the beef tips over a toasted slice of crusty bread or a soft biscuit for an inviting open-faced sandwich style. For a comforting twist, spoon the beef and gravy over baked sweet potatoes or creamy polenta—both give extra texture and unique flavors that make the dish pop on your dinner table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store your leftover beef tips and gravy in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making second-day servings just as delicious if not better. Just be sure to keep it properly covered to maintain moisture and prevent drying out.
Freezing
This Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe freezes exceptionally well. Portion the leftovers into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for easiest results and best texture.
Reheating
For reheating, gently warm the beef tips and gravy on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or burning. Add a splash of beef broth or water if needed to loosen the gravy. You can also reheat in the microwave, covering loosely and stirring midway to heat evenly without drying the beef.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin tips are ideal for their tenderness and quick cooking, you can substitute with other stew meat or chuck roast cut into bite-sized pieces. Just allow more time to cook if using tougher cuts.
What can I use if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?
If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce on hand, a mix of soy sauce with a splash of balsamic vinegar can mimic the umami and tangy depth it provides. Adjust to taste to avoid overpowering the dish.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative such as rice flour or cornstarch for coating the beef, and ensure your broth and bouillon are gluten-free as well. The cornstarch slurry is already a great gluten-free thickening option.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance for a dinner party?
Definitely. You can complete the recipe up to the point of simmering and then refrigerate it. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat it while stirring in the cornstarch slurry to freshen up the gravy’s texture and thickness.
What are good alternatives to mashed potatoes for serving?
If you want to switch things up, creamy polenta, buttered egg noodles, or even cauliflower mash are excellent companions to this dish. They all soak up the gravy beautifully and add their unique flair.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe enough for anyone who craves a rich, hearty, and comforting meal that’s surprisingly easy to make. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering, this dish never fails to impress with its tender beef and luscious gravy. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite go-to comfort food!
Print
Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty Beef Tips and Gravy recipe features tender sirloin tips seared to perfection and simmered in a rich, flavorful gravy infused with savory herbs and spices. Perfect served over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles, this dish combines easy stovetop cooking with comforting, homemade taste.
Ingredients
Beef and Seasoning
- 1½ lbs sirloin tips, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 3 tbsp flour
- 1 tsp brown sugar
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp paprika
Cooking Ingredients
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 beef bouillon cube
- 1½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ tsp dried thyme
- ¼ tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 3 tbsp corn starch
- ¼ cup cold water
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef: Cut the sirloin tips into bite-sized cubes and thoroughly pat them dry with paper towels. In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, black pepper, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and paprika to create the beef seasoning blend. Toss the beef cubes with this seasoning mix, then evenly coat them with flour.
- Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Working in batches, sear the beef pieces for 30-45 seconds on each side until they develop a browned, caramelized crust. Avoid overcrowding the pan for optimal searing. Remove the seared beef from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Create the Base for Gravy: With the skillet still on medium-high heat, pour in the beef broth to deglaze the pan. Scrape the bottom with a spatula to loosen all browned bits that add flavor. Allow the broth to reduce by half to concentrate the flavors. Reduce the heat to medium-low, then add butter and diced onions. Cook the onions until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma.
- Build the Gravy: Add the remaining beef broth, beef bouillon cube, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried rosemary, onion powder, and garlic powder to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil to start the thickening process. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until fully combined to make a slurry. Slowly whisk this slurry into the skillet, stirring continuously until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
- Simmer the Beef in Gravy: Return the seared beef pieces and any accumulated juices back to the skillet. Cover the skillet partially with a lid and let it simmer over low heat for 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the beef to become tender and infused with the rich gravy flavors.
- Optional Slow Cooker Method: For an alternative cooking method, after searing the beef and preparing the gravy, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 7–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours. At the end of cooking, stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the gravy before serving.
Notes
- For best results, pat the beef dry before seasoning and flour coating to achieve a good sear.
- Do not overcrowd the skillet when searing to prevent steaming instead of browning.
- The gravy can be thickened further by adding more cornstarch slurry if needed.
- Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for a comforting meal.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop.
- The slow cooker option is convenient for set-it-and-forget-it meal preparation.
