Cozy Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy
As the golden leaves fall and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing like coming home to the rich, savory smell of beef tips simmering in the slow cooker. This recipe for Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy is like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for those chilly evenings when you want to indulge in something comforting and hearty.
I remember the first time I made this dish for my family; the anticipation was palpable as they walked through the door, their faces lighting up at the mouthwatering aroma that filled our home. It became a staple in our household, especially during the busy weeks when I needed an easy weeknight dinner that didn’t sacrifice flavor.
Join me as I walk you through this delightful recipe — this is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting and Cozy: The tender beef tips and rich gravy create a comforting meal that wraps you in warmth.
- Simple Ingredients: With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a nutritious and delicious dish without any fuss.
- Easy to Make: Just toss everything in the crock pot and let it do the work for you. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights!
- Customizable: This recipe allows for endless tweaks, making it a great base for your own creative touches.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love digging into this savory meal, making it a crowd-pleasing favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy
To prepare this cozy dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds stew meat
- 1 packet beef stew seasoning
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Cooked rice or mashed potatoes (for serving)
How to Make Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy
Let’s prepare this heartwarming dish together! Follow these steps for a fail-proof comforting meal:
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In a large bowl, combine the stew meat with the beef stew seasoning and toss to coat evenly. The savory aroma of the seasoning is sure to make your mouth water!
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Place the seasoned meat in the crock pot, spreading it out so the meat can bask in its own rich flavors.
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Add the beef broth, chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced mushrooms, and Worcestershire sauce on top of the meat. Stir gently to combine — your kitchen is about to smell amazing!
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Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until the meat is tender. The longer you cook, the more the flavors meld together into a harmony of deliciousness.
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If you want a thicker gravy, mix cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry, then stir it into the gravy. Continue to cook for an additional 30 minutes, watching the sauce turn velvety.
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Serve the beef tips over cooked rice or mashed potatoes, letting that luscious gravy soak into every bite. Enjoy the comforting warmth with your family around the dinner table!
Delicious Variations to Try
Feel free to mix things up with these flavorful variations:
- Mushroom Lover’s Delight: Add an extra cup of mixed mushrooms for an even richer, earthier flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in a diced jalapeño or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a zesty twist on the classic.
- Creamy Addition: Stir in a splash of heavy cream in the last 30 minutes of cooking for a luxurious, creamy gravy.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary added at the end of the cooking time can elevate the flavor profile, bringing a refreshing note to the dish.
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
To ensure your Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy comes out perfectly every time, here are my best kitchen secrets:
- Make-Ahead Magic: This dish is ideal for meal prep. Make it a day ahead and reheat for a quick family dinner.
- Freezing Friendly: Leftovers freeze beautifully. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months — thaw and reheat for an effortless meal.
- Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to substitute with other cuts of beef like chuck or round; just adjust the cooking time as needed.
- Slicing Trick: When cutting stew meat, slice against the grain to ensure each bite is tender and melts in your mouth.
What’s Inside – Nutrition Breakdown
Here’s a quick look at the nutrition information per serving (based on a 1-cup serving over rice or mashed potatoes):
- Calories: 350
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Sugar: 2g
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 550mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep and can be made a day or two in advance.
Can I use different ingredients?
Yes, feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping the beef for another protein.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover beef tips in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
How long does it last?
When properly stored, this dish can last in the refrigerator for about 3 days or in the freezer for 3 months.
A Cozy Closing Note
As we cozy up with a steaming bowl of Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy, let it remind us of the warmth of family gatherings and the beauty of shared meals. This dish is not just a recipe; it’s a gateway to cherished memories and delightful moments at home. Save this Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy to your dinner ideas board so it’s ready when you need a cozy treat! Happy cooking!
Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds stew meat
- 1 packet beef stew seasoning
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- as needed Cooked rice or mashed potatoes (for serving)
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine the stew meat with the beef stew seasoning and toss to coat evenly.
- Place the seasoned meat in the crock pot, spreading it out.
- Add the beef broth, chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced mushrooms, and Worcestershire sauce on top of the meat.
- Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until the meat is tender.
- If you want a thicker gravy, mix cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry, then stir it into the gravy for an additional 30 minutes.
- Serve the beef tips over cooked rice or mashed potatoes.
