Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy

Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy cooks up seasoned stew meat into a tender, flavorful meal. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With minimal effort and just ten ingredients, you can create a comforting meal that warms the heart. Its rich gravy pairs beautifully with rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes, making it versatile for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Simply combine ingredients in your slow cooker and let it do the work.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings creates a mouthwatering gravy.
• Budget-Friendly: Stew meat is an economical choice that delivers satisfying results.
• Family Favorite: This dish appeals to both adults and kids alike, making it a hit at the dinner table.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy with rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy efficiently, having the right tools is essential. Below are the necessary tools to help you prepare this delightful dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 6-quart slow cooker
• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• 6-quart slow cooker: Ideal for cooking large batches of beef tips evenly while keeping them tender.
• Medium mixing bowl: Perfect for combining all ingredients before adding them to the slow cooker.
• Whisk: Helps ensure that all ingredients are well-mixed for even flavor distribution.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2 lbs stew meat
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• 3 tbsp garlic (minced)

Additional Ingredients

• 1 (1 oz) package dry onion soup mix
• 2 cups beef broth
• 3 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 3 tbsp cornstarch

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy

Step 1: Prepare the Meat

Place stew meat in the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a medium bowl, add:
1. salt
2. black pepper
3. dried thyme
4. garlic
5. dry onion soup mix
6. beef broth
7. ketchup
8. Worcestershire sauce
9. cornstarch

Whisk together until well combined.

Step 3: Combine and Cook

Pour the mixture over the beef tips in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, serve over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes. Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy

Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Over Rice

• Serve the beef tips over fluffy white or brown rice for a comforting meal that absorbs the savory gravy.

With Noodles

• Pour the beef tips and gravy over egg noodles to create a hearty dish that complements the tender meat beautifully.

On Mashed Potatoes

• Serve it on creamy mashed potatoes for a classic comfort food experience. The rich gravy adds flavor to each bite.

In a Sandwich

• Use the beef tips as a filling in crusty bread to make delicious sandwiches. Add some cheese for extra flavor.

With Vegetables

• Pair it with steamed broccoli or green beans to add some freshness and color to your plate.

As a Casserole

• Combine the beef tips with leftover rice or noodles in a casserole dish, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly for an easy second-day meal.

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How to Perfect Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy

To achieve the best results with your Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose quality meat: Select well-marbled stew meat for extra tenderness and flavor after slow cooking.
• Season generously: Don’t skimp on seasoning; it enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• Sear before cooking: For added depth of flavor, briefly sear the stew meat in a hot pan before adding it to the slow cooker.
• Adjust thickness: If you prefer thicker gravy, mix additional cornstarch with cold water and stir in during the last hour of cooking.
• Let it rest: Allowing your dish to sit for 10-15 minutes before serving lets flavors meld together beautifully.
• Garnish wisely: Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can brighten up your dish just before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy

Pairing side dishes with Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: A crunchy complement that is perfect for soaking up extra gravy.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Adds a nutty flavor that contrasts nicely with the richness of the beef.
3. Coleslaw: A refreshing, crunchy side that balances out the hearty main dish.
4. Creamed Spinach: A rich, creamy side that pairs well with the savory beef tips.
5. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is an excellent choice to round out this comforting meal.
6. Cauliflower Mash: A lighter alternative to mashed potatoes that still provides creaminess without excess carbs.
7. Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky baked beans offer a delightful contrast to the savory beef.
8. Garden Salad: A crisp salad provides freshness that brightens up this hearty dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy, even small mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough salt or spices will result in bland beef tips. Always season generously for enhanced flavor.
• Overloading the slow cooker: Filling the crock pot too full may prevent even cooking. Stick to the recommended meat amount for best results.
• Ignoring cook times: Cooking for too long can lead to dry meat. Monitor your slow cooker; 7-8 hours on low is ideal.
• Using cold ingredients: Adding cold broth or meat can extend cooking time. Allow ingredients to reach room temperature before cooking.
• Neglecting to whisk the mixture: Failing to mix your sauce ingredients well can cause clumping. Whisk thoroughly to ensure a smooth gravy.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat on the stove, stirring frequently until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy, you’re not alone. Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?

Yes, while stew meat is perfect, you can also use chuck roast or brisket. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces.

How do I thicken the gravy?

To thicken the gravy, mix cornstarch with water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

What should I serve with Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy?

These beef tips pair well with rice, mashed potatoes, or egg noodles for a comforting meal.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Carrots, potatoes, or peas can be added in the last few hours of cooking for added flavor and nutrition.

How do I store leftovers from Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy is a delightful dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite herbs or add veggies to enhance its nutritional value. Perfect for busy weeknights, this meal will surely become a family favorite!