If you’re on the hunt for a comforting meal that practically cooks itself, look no further than Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy. This recipe captures the essence of classic home cooking, delivering melt-in-your-mouth beef topped with a rich and savory gravy. Not only is it simple to make, but it also fills your kitchen with tantalizing aromas. You don’t have to be a culinary expert to achieve a dish that tastes lovingly prepared from scratch.
Why We Love This Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe
The appeal of Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy lies in its convenience and robust flavor. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or whipping up a meal for a cozy evening at home, this recipe is the answer. It is not just another slow cooker recipe; it’s a deeply satisfying dish that has a way of making everyone at the table feel warmed and welcomed.
One of the best aspects of this dish is its versatility. You can easily pair it with various sides to elevate your meal, whether you prefer creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or hearty noodles. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create something remarkable that will keep your loved ones coming back for seconds.
Ingredients about Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy
To make this enriching dish, gather the following ingredients. Each component plays its role in crafting a meal that is both hearty and flavorsome.
- 2 lbs beef stew meat
- 1 (1 oz) package dry onion soup mix
- 2 cups beef broth
- 3 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons minced garlic
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Each ingredient enhances the dish, adding depth and richness to the final product. Make sure to select quality beef stew meat for the best results; the right cut of meat can make a world of difference in taste and tenderness.
How to Make Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy Directions
Preparing delicious beef tips and gravy in your crockpot requires minimal hands-on time, making it an ideal meal for busy days. Start by patting the stew meat dry with paper towels to help it brown better, which will enhance the overall flavor. Once your meat is prepped, place it directly into a 6-quart slow cooker.
In a separate bowl, you’ll want to combine the beef broth, onion soup mix, dried thyme, minced garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, cornstarch, and salt and pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined. This mixture will serve as the base for your gravy, delivering that rich flavor you desire.
Pour the mixture over the beef in the slow cooker, ensuring that the meat is well coated. Cover the pot and set your slow cooker to the low setting for 7 to 8 hours. During this time, the meat will become incredibly tender and will absorb all the wonderful flavors from the gravy.
Once the cooking time is up, you can serve the beef tips immediately or let them sit in the warm setting while you prepare your sides. If you’re looking for a thicker gravy, you can make a slurry with an additional tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water, then stir it into the gravy and let it simmer for a few minutes until thickened.
How to Serve Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy
Serving this delectable crockpot dish is straightforward yet satisfying. The classic accompaniments are mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles. Imagine a plate full of creamy mashed potatoes topped with the beef and drizzled with that luscious gravy—pure comfort food for sure!
Another delightful option is to serve the beef tips over buttered egg noodles. The combination of the tender beef and the refreshing noodles creates a well-rounded meal that your family will love. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh herbs, like parsley, for a pop of color and freshness.
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding sautéed vegetables like green beans or carrots on the side. This not only enriches the meal but also introduces some vibrant colors and textures to your plate.
Expert Tips: Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy
To ensure your Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy turns out perfectly every time, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Seating Your Meat: For best results, consider browning your stew meat in a skillet before transferring it to your slow cooker. This step enhances the flavor through the Maillard reaction, giving you a more robust taste throughout your dish.
- Keep It Low and Slow: Avoid the temptation to cook on high; low and slow is the way to go for tender beef. The extended cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Thicken the Gravy: If you like a thicker gravy, a cornstarch slurry is your best friend. Mix equal parts cornstarch and cold water and whisk it into your gravy toward the end of cooking for a velvety finish.
- Leftover Magic: This recipe makes delicious leftovers. Consider making a beef tips sandwich for lunch the next day, using a crusty roll to soak up all the flavorful gravy.
- Customize the Flavors: Feel free to tweak the seasoning to your liking. If you love a hit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
How to Store Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy
After enjoying your meal, proper storage is essential to maintain the quality of your leftover Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy. To do this, first, allow the dish to cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container.
You can safely refrigerate the leftovers for up to three to four days. If you wish to keep them longer, consider freezing the beef tips and gravy. Store them in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, and they will last for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave until steaming hot.
Variation of Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy
While the traditional recipe is fantastic on its own, there are plenty of variations you can try to keep things fresh:
- Mushroom Added: If you’re a fan of mushrooms, consider adding sliced cremini or button mushrooms to the slow cooker. They’ll add an earthy flavor that complements the beef beautifully.
- Vegetable Medley: For a one-pot meal, toss in some potatoes, carrots, and peas. Cut them into bite-sized pieces, and they’ll cook perfectly alongside your beef.
- Spicy Twist: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce into the mix for a spicy kick.
- Different Cuts of Meat: While beef stew meat is ideal, you can experiment with chuck roast or even flank steak. Just be mindful of cooking times, as different cuts may require adjustments.
- Herbal Flavor: Feel free to play around with herbs. Instead of dried thyme, you might try rosemary or even a little fresh basil for a different herbal note.
FAQ
What is the best cut of beef for Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy?
The best cut of beef for this recipe is beef stew meat, typically made from tougher cuts like chuck. These cuts become tender during long cooking periods, making them perfect for slow-cooking recipes.
How can I make my gravy thicker?
If you prefer a thicker gravy, adding a cornstarch slurry is an effective method. Mix cornstarch with cold water, stir it into the pot, and let it simmer until thickened.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything in advance and refrigerate it. Then, simply set your slow cooker when you’re ready to enjoy a warm meal.
What should I serve with Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy?
This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables to complete the meal.
How do I store leftovers?
Allow the leftovers to cool, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze them for up to three months.
Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef stew meat Choose quality beef for best results.
- 1 oz dry onion soup mix Use one package.
- 2 cups beef broth
- 3 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch For thickening the gravy.
- 3 tablespoons minced garlic
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Pat the stew meat dry with paper towels.
- Place the beef in a 6-quart slow cooker.
- In a separate bowl, combine beef broth, onion soup mix, dried thyme, minced garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined.
- Pour the mixture over the beef in the slow cooker, ensuring the meat is well coated.
Cooking
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 7 to 8 hours.
- Once cooking is complete, serve the beef tips immediately or let them sit in the warm setting while you prepare your sides.
- For a thicker gravy, make a cornstarch slurry with an additional tablespoon of cornstarch and a little cold water, stir into the gravy, and simmer until thickened.
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