If there’s one dish that combines simplicity, rich flavor, and warmth, it’s Beef Tips and Gravy. Whether you’re planning a comforting family dinner, a holiday potluck, or a satisfying meal for a cozy evening, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. Tender chunks of beef simmered in savory brown gravy served over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles—what’s not to love?
In this comprehensive article, you’ll discover:
- The origin and charm of beef tips and gravy
- A detailed recipe with pro tips
- Variations and ingredient substitutions
- Nutritional benefits
- Answers to FAQs
- Serving ideas and storage tips
- And more!
🥩 What Are Beef Tips?
Beef tips refer to bite-sized pieces of beef, usually cut from sirloin, tenderloin, or chuck roast. These morsels are ideal for slow cooking, braising, or stewing, allowing them to become tender and absorb rich flavors.
While some use premium cuts like sirloin tips, budget-friendly options such as stew meat or chuck roast also work wonderfully when cooked low and slow in a flavorful sauce.
🍲 Why Beef Tips and Gravy Is a Must-Try Comfort Dish
There’s a reason why this dish is a comfort food classic:
✅ Affordable & Accessible Ingredients
✅ Minimal Prep, Maximum Flavor
✅ Perfect for Batch Cooking & Freezing
✅ Endless Pairing Options
✅ Kid-Friendly and Family-Approved
Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a laid-back Sunday, beef tips in gravy brings everyone to the table with a smile.
🧂 Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to create this heartwarming dish:
Main Ingredients:
- Beef stew meat or sirloin tips – 1 ½ lbs (cut into bite-size cubes)
- Olive oil – 2 tbsp (for browning)
- Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
- All-purpose flour – 2 tbsp (to thicken gravy)
- Beef broth – 2 cups (low sodium preferred)
- Worcestershire sauce – 1 tbsp
- Soy sauce – 1 tbsp (adds depth, optional)
- Dried thyme – 1 tsp
- Bay leaves – 2
- Salt & pepper – to taste
- Heavy cream or milk – ¼ cup (optional, for creamy gravy)
- Fresh parsley – chopped, for garnish
🔪 Step-by-Step: How to Make Beef Tips and Gravy
🔥 Step 1: Sear the Beef
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Brown the beef in batches (avoid overcrowding), searing on all sides. This takes about 5–7 minutes.
- Remove and set aside.
Pro Tip: Browning the beef develops flavor through the Maillard reaction—don’t skip it!
🧄 Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same pan, add the chopped onion. Cook for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
🥣 Step 3: Build the Gravy Base
- Sprinkle flour over the onions and garlic, stirring continuously. Cook for 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Slowly whisk in the beef broth to prevent lumps.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce (if using), thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.
🍖 Step 4: Simmer Until Tender
- Return the browned beef to the pan, ensuring it’s submerged in the gravy.
- Lower heat, cover, and simmer for 45–60 minutes until the beef is tender and the gravy has thickened.
🥛 Step 5: Optional Creamy Finish
If a creamier gravy is desired, stir in ¼ cup heavy cream or milk and simmer for another 5 minutes.
🌿 Step 6: Serve & Garnish
- Remove bay leaves.
- Garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or even warm buttered bread.
🍽️ Best Sides to Serve with Beef Tips and Gravy
- Mashed Potatoes – Classic and creamy
- Egg Noodles – Soft, buttery base
- Rice – White, brown, or jasmine rice soak up gravy beautifully
- Buttered Biscuits or Cornbread – Southern comfort at its best
- Steamed Veggies – Like green beans or carrots for balance
- Side Salad – For freshness and crunch
🥕 Add-In Variations
Want to make this dish your own? Try these tasty additions:
- Mushrooms – Add depth and umami
- Carrots – Add sweetness and color
- Celery – Boosts aroma
- Red wine – Swap ½ cup of broth for wine
- Paprika or red pepper flakes – Add heat
🧠 Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving Estimate)
- Calories: ~380
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 22g
- Sodium: 650mg (can be lowered with low-sodium broth)
This dish is high-protein, gluten-friendly (with cornstarch), and nutrient-dense when paired with vegetables.
❄️ Storage and Meal Prep Tips
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.
- Reheating: Reheat over low heat on the stove or microwave in intervals.
Tip: Add a splash of broth or cream when reheating to restore moisture.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Brown the meat and onions first, then transfer to a slow cooker with remaining ingredients (except cream). Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
2. Can I use cornstarch instead of flour?
Yes! Mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water and stir into the gravy at the end.
3. Can I make this dairy-free?
Skip the cream or use a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream or oat milk.
4. Can I use leftover roast or steak?
Sure. Just dice the cooked meat and reduce the simmer time to 15–20 minutes.
5. What’s the best beef cut for tenderness?
Sirloin is tender and flavorful. Chuck is more affordable but needs longer cooking to become tender.
🧁 What to Serve for Dessert After Beef Tips and Gravy
Balance this rich dish with something light or sweet:
- Fruit cobbler
- Lemon sorbet
- Apple crisp
- Chocolate mousse
💬 Final Thoughts
Beef Tips and Gravy is more than a recipe—it’s a culinary hug. It brings warmth, nostalgia, and satisfaction to every plate. With easy prep and delicious results, it deserves a spot in your regular meal rotation.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving guests, this dish never fails to impress. Experiment with flavors, adjust the ingredients to your liking, and make it your signature comfort food.
