This Easy Beef Tips and Savory Gravy recipe is a real crowd-pleaser! It features tender beef pieces cooked to perfection in a delicious, rich gravy that’s perfect over rice or mashed potatoes.
Honestly, who can resist beef that melts in your mouth with a gravy that hugs every bite?! I love serving it with some crusty bread for dipping—heavenly! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: I recommend beef sirloin for tenderness, but you can also use stew meat or chuck. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using turkey or chicken, though the texture will differ.
Onion: A medium onion adds great flavor. If you’re not a fan, consider using shallots or green onions instead.
Gravy Mix: Brown gravy mix makes this recipe quick and easy. For a homemade version, mix equal parts flour and beef broth with seasonings, or use a mix that suits your dietary needs.
Thyme: Dried thyme is perfect for this recipe, but fresh thyme is a great substitution if you have it on hand! Use it sparingly, as it’s more potent than dried.
Cornstarch: This ingredient thickens the gravy. You can swap it with flour or arrowroot powder if you prefer; just adjust the amount accordingly.
How Do I Ensure My Beef is Tender and Flavorful?
Browning the beef is essential! This step adds flavor by caramelizing the meat’s surface. Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the beef for that perfect sear.
- Cook the beef in batches if your pan isn’t large enough, ensuring each piece gets browned on all sides.
- Don’t skip scraping the pan after adding broth; those brown bits are packed with flavor!
Lastly, patience is key when simmering. Allowing at least 30 minutes for the beef to cook in the broth lets it absorb all those delicious flavors.
Enjoy making this hearty dish!
Easy Beef Tips and Savory Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1½ pounds beef sirloin or stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 packet (1 ounce) brown gravy mix
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional, for extra depth)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons cold water (for cornstarch slurry)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 40 minutes of cooking time. By the end, you’ll have a rich and hearty meal perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Searing the Beef:
Begin by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef pieces and brown them on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes. When done, remove the beef from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
2. Cooking the Aromatics:
In the same pan, add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes softened and translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant—this is what makes your kitchen smell incredible!
3. Preparing the Gravy:
Return the browned beef to the pan. Pour in the beef broth and water, making sure to scrape the bottom of the pan to release any delicious browned bits. Stir in the brown gravy mix, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce (if you’re using it), dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Simmering it All Together:
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes. This step ensures that the beef becomes nice and tender.
5. Thicken the Gravy (Optional):
If you’d like a thicker gravy, mix the cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl until it’s smooth. Gradually stir this slurry into the simmering gravy and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until thickened to your liking.
6. Final Touches:
Give the gravy a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Once everything is perfect, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
7. Serve:
Serve the beef tips hot over a bed of mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. Enjoy your delicious and comforting meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Absolutely! While sirloin or stew meat works great, you can also use chuck roast or round steak. Just remember that tougher cuts may require a longer cooking time for tenderness.
What If I Don’t Have Brown Gravy Mix?
No worries! You can make a simple homemade gravy by whisking together equal parts flour and beef broth with your seasonings. Aim for about 1 cup of beef broth for thicker gravy, adjusting to your preference.
Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can! Use gluten-free soy sauce and a gluten-free brown gravy mix. Also, replacement thickeners like cornstarch or arrowroot can be used to ensure this recipe fits your dietary needs.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave or heat on the stove over low heat until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of water or broth to loosen the gravy when reheating.
