There’s something comforting about a plate of beef tips and rice. The tender beef, savory broth, and warm rice make for a meal that feels like a hug. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting friends, or just craving something satisfying, beef tips and rice is a perfect go-to comfort food. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know, from the flavors to expert tips for making it your own.
Why We Love Beef Tips and Rice
Beef tips and rice is more than just a meal — it’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly delicious. Here are a few reasons why this dish has earned a special place in our hearts (and kitchens):
- Hearty & Filling: A well-cooked plate of beef tips and rice provides that satisfying, “full” feeling without being overly heavy. It’s the perfect balance of comfort and nourishment.
- Perfect Balance of Flavors: The richness of tender beef tips paired with the savory, aromatic broth makes for a meal that’s bursting with flavor. Add in fluffy rice, and you’ve got a dish that feels both indulgent and balanced.
- Easy to Make: This recipe doesn’t require complex techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. It’s quick, straightforward, and perfect for a busy weeknight when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
- Budget-Friendly: Beef tips are often more affordable than other cuts of meat but still deliver an impressive depth of flavor. It’s a smart option for anyone looking to feed a family without breaking the bank.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: Sometimes, all you need is a meal that’s warm, familiar, and satisfying. Beef tips and rice deliver that feeling with every bite
Ingredients
Beef stew tips – Tender beef pieces that become soft when cooked.
Long-grain white rice – Perfect for holding its shape and absorbing the broth.
Medium onion – Adds sweetness and flavor to the dish.
Garlic – Fresh garlic gives a savory taste to the dish.
Beef broth – Rich liquid that adds flavor and moisture to the rice.
Soy sauce – Adds depth of flavor with a savory kick.
Worcestershire sauce – Adds a tangy, sweet flavor.
Dried thyme – Brings an earthy flavor to the dish.
How to Make Beef Tips and Rice
Making beef tips and rice is a straightforward process, but the key is to slow-cooking the beef until it’s incredibly tender. Here’s a step-by-step guide to crafting this delicious dish:
Step 1: Sear the Beef Tips
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the beef tips with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Sear the beef until it’s browned on all sides — this helps lock in the juices and develop that rich, deep flavor. Once seared, remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This will create a flavorful base for your broth.
Step 3: Combine and Simmer
Return the beef tips to the skillet, along with the beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and dried thyme. Stir everything together, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for added flavor. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 30-45 minutes, or until the beef tips are fork-tender.
Step 4: Prepare the Rice
While the beef tips are simmering, cook the rice according to the package instructions. Make sure to follow the recommended water-to-rice ratio to get the perfect texture. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and set it aside.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Once the beef tips are tender and the sauce has thickened, serve the beef over a bed of rice. Garnish with chopped parsley and red pepper flakes if you like a little extra flavor and color.
Expert Tips for Perfect Beef Tips and Rice
Making beef tips and rice is easy, but a few expert tips can elevate this dish from good to great:
For Tender Beef: If you want extra-tender beef, consider cooking the beef tips in a slow cooker. Simply sear the beef, then add the rest of the ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Rice Tips: Use long-grain white rice for the fluffiest texture. If you’re cooking for a crowd, you can easily double the rice, but make sure to adjust the amount of broth accordingly to avoid making the dish too dry.
Flavor Boosters: A splash of heavy cream at the end can give your beef tips and rice an extra richness. For a twist, try adding a handful of mushrooms while sautéing the onions and garlic for an earthy flavor.
Make Ahead: This dish can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, or frozen for up to 3 months. Simply reheat when ready to serve, and it will taste just as delicious!
Variations on Beef Tips and Rice
While the classic beef tips and rice is perfect as-is, you can always get creative with a few variations:
Mushroom Beef Tips and Rice: Add sliced mushrooms to the pan with the onions and garlic. This adds an earthy, umami-rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the beef.
Spicy Beef Tips and Rice: If you like a bit of heat, add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef broth. Red pepper flakes can also be sprinkled on top for an extra kick.
Curry Beef Tips and Rice: Give your beef tips and rice a flavorful twist by stirring in a tablespoon of curry powder. The result will be a spiced-up, exotic version of this comfort dish.
Vegetarian Version: If you prefer a vegetarian option, swap the beef for tofu or hearty vegetables like eggplant. The cooking method remains the same, and you’ll still enjoy a comforting meal with all the flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Beef Tips and Rice
While beef tips and rice can certainly be enjoyed on their own, serving it alongside complementary sides can enhance the meal:
Steamed Vegetables: Pair your beef tips and rice with steamed broccoli, green beans, or carrots for a balanced plate.
Garlic Bread: If you want to go all out, serve your beef tips with a side of buttery garlic bread. It’s perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
Fresh Salad: A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the beef, offering a refreshing contrast.
FAQs about Beef Tips and Rice
What are beef tips?
Beef tips are small, tender cuts of beef typically taken from the sirloin or chuck. They’re perfect for slow cooking, allowing them to become incredibly tender and flavorful when braised in a broth or sauce.
How do I make beef tips and rice more flavorful?
To boost the flavor, consider adding more herbs like rosemary or bay leaves. You can also incorporate a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar to enhance the richness of the sauce.
How can I thicken the sauce for beef tips and rice?
If your sauce is too thin, create a slurry by mixing cornstarch and water, then add it to the simmering broth. This will help thicken the sauce without changing the flavor.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes! Brown rice can be substituted, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time. Be sure to adjust the cooking method accordingly.
Can I make beef tips and rice in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Simply sear the beef, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours for tender, flavorful beef.
beef tips and rice
Equipment
- Skillet
- Dutch Oven
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef stew tips
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 unit medium onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the beef tips with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Sear the beef until it’s browned on all sides, then remove from the pan and set it aside.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until the onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Return the beef tips to the skillet and add the beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and dried thyme. Stir everything together, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat and cover. Let it simmer for 30-45 minutes, or until the beef tips are fork-tender.
- While the beef tips are simmering, cook the rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork.
- Once the beef tips are tender and the sauce has thickened, serve the beef over the rice and garnish with parsley if desired.