Description
Enjoy a comforting, homemade dinner with these Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy! Tender chunks of beef are slowly cooked in a rich, savory gravy made with beef broth, brown gravy mix, au jus seasoning, butter, and onions. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to blend beautifully, creating juicy, fork-tender beef in a delicious sauce. This easy crockpot recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, cozy family dinners, or Sunday comfort food. Serve it over creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or egg noodles for a satisfying meal everyone will love.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6–8 hours on LOW or 3–4 hours on HIGH
Total Time: Approximately 6 hours 10 minutes to 8 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2½ pounds beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized chunks
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) beef broth
- 1 packet (about 1 ounce) brown gravy mix
- 1 packet (about 1 ounce) au jus gravy mix
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (optional, for thickening)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Cut the beef stew meat into evenly sized chunks if needed. Dice the onion and set aside.
Step 2: Add the Beef to the Slow Cooker
Place the beef chunks in the bottom of a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker. Spread the diced onion evenly over the beef.
Step 3: Prepare the Gravy Mixture
In a bowl, whisk together the beef broth, brown gravy mix, au jus gravy mix, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce, if using. Mix until the seasoning powders are mostly dissolved.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Pour the gravy mixture over the beef and onions. Place the butter on top. Stir gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
Step 5: Slow Cook Until Tender
Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the beef is fork-tender. Cooking time may vary depending on the size of the beef pieces and the slow cooker.
Step 6: Thicken the Gravy (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix the cornstarch with cold water until smooth. Stir the mixture into the slow cooker during the final 20–30 minutes of cooking. Cover and cook until the gravy thickens.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Stir gently and taste the gravy before adding any extra salt, since packaged gravy mixes can already be salty. Serve the beef tips and gravy hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Creamy mashed potatoes: Perfect for soaking up the rich gravy.
- Steamed white rice: A simple and satisfying option.
- Egg noodles: A classic pairing for beef and gravy.
- Roasted green beans or carrots: Add a fresh vegetable side to complete the meal.
- Crusty bread: Ideal for enjoying every bit of the savory sauce.
Tips for the Best Beef Tips and Gravy
- Choose the right beef: Beef chuck or stew meat works well for slow cooking.
- Avoid lifting the lid: Keeping the lid closed helps maintain a consistent cooking temperature.
- Adjust the consistency: Use the optional cornstarch slurry if you prefer a thicker gravy.
- Taste before seasoning: The gravy packets contain salt, so additional salt may not be necessary.
- Allow enough cooking time: The beef should be tender enough to break apart easily with a fork.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooled beef tips and gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating: Reheat in a saucepan over medium-low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of beef broth if the gravy becomes too thick. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours of cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes. Beef chuck, stew meat, or other suitable braising cuts work well. Choose cuts that become tender with slow cooking.
Can I prepare this recipe without butter?
Yes. You can omit the butter or replace it with a little olive oil. The gravy will still be flavorful.
Can I add mushrooms?
Absolutely! Sliced mushrooms make a delicious addition. Add them at the beginning of cooking for a softer texture.
Do I need to brown the beef first?
No. You can add the beef directly to the slow cooker for convenience. However, browning it in a hot skillet before slow cooking can add extra depth of flavor.
How do I know when the beef is done?
The beef should be fork-tender and easy to pull apart. For food safety, whole cuts and stew meat should reach at least 145°F (63°C), followed by a three-minute rest; for the tender texture desired in this recipe, slow cooking generally continues well beyond that temperature.
Conclusion
These Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy are the perfect combination of convenience and comfort. With tender beef, rich gravy, and simple pantry ingredients, this easy crockpot dinner is sure to become a family favorite. Serve it with your favorite side dish and enjoy a warm, satisfying homemade meal!