Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Beef Tips and Gravy is a comforting, hearty dish featuring tender chunks of beef simmered in a rich, savory brown gravy. It’s a classic Southern-style recipe that’s perfect served over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this satisfying dish delivers flavor and warmth with every bite.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
stew beef or sirloin tipsgarliconionbeef brothWorcestershire saucetomato pastecornstarcholive oilsaltblack pepperthyme (optional)bay leaf (optional)
directions
Season beef tips with salt and pepper.
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef on all sides in batches, removing each batch once seared.
In the same pan, add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.
Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
Add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaf. Return beef to the pot.
Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat, cover, and cook on low for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender.
Mix cornstarch with a small amount of cold water to create a slurry. Stir into the pot and cook for 5-10 more minutes, or until the gravy thickens.
Remove bay leaf before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 4-6 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 1.5 to 2 hoursTotal time: 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes
Variations
Add mushrooms for an earthy depth.
Use red wine in place of some broth for a richer gravy.
Swap beef tips with pork or chicken for a twist.
Make it in a slow cooker by combining all ingredients and cooking on low for 6-8 hours.
storage/reheating
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.Freeze for up to 2 months.Thaw in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
FAQs
What cut of beef is best for beef tips?
Sirloin, stew meat, or chuck roast work well—just be sure to cook low and slow for tenderness.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats beautifully and even tastes better the next day.
What should I serve it with?
Mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or white rice are all classic pairings.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and cornstarch instead of flour.
Is it okay to use a pressure cooker?
Absolutely—cook on high pressure for 25 minutes with a natural release.
Why is my beef tough?
It may need more time to simmer. Slow cooking breaks down connective tissue.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, carrots, peas, and mushrooms are great additions.
Does it need tomato paste?
It adds depth but can be omitted or replaced with a dash of soy sauce for umami.
Is it spicy?
No, but you can add chili flakes for heat.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger pot and adjust cook time as needed.
Conclusion
Beef Tips and Gravy is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender meat with a rich, flavorful sauce that’s perfect for spooning over your favorite starch. It’s an easy, adaptable recipe that brings warmth to the table any day of the week. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just treating yourself, this dish is sure to satisfy.
Print
Beef Tips and Gravy
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
Tender beef tips simmered in a rich, savory gravy, perfect for serving over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef stew meat or sirloin tips, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add beef tips and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Return beef to the pan and add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours or until beef is tender.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water until smooth. Stir into the beef mixture.
- Simmer uncovered for 5-10 minutes, stirring frequently, until the gravy thickens.
- Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
Notes
- You can use a slow cooker for this recipe; cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- For extra flavor, deglaze the pan with a splash of red wine before adding broth.
- Add mushrooms or green peas for added texture and flavor.