Crockpot beef tips with gravy is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for busy days. This recipe combines tender beef stew meat with a rich and savory gravy that cooks slowly in the crockpot, ensuring flavorful and juicy meat every time. Here’s how to make it step-by-step.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef stew meat: Choose a good quality meat suitable for slow cooking.
- 1 cup beef broth: Adds depth of flavor to the gravy.
- 1 can (10¾ ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup: Provides creaminess and richness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the savory flavor of the dish.
- 1 package (0.8 to 1 ounce) brown gravy mix: Adds seasoning and thickening to the gravy.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds aromatic sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water (optional): For thickening the gravy, if desired.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crockpot:
- Place the beef stew meat in the crockpot. Season with salt and pepper if desired.
2. Mix Ingredients:
- In a mixing bowl, combine beef broth, condensed cream of mushroom soup, minced garlic, brown gravy mix, and diced onion. Stir well until smooth and evenly mixed.
3. Pour Over Beef:
- Pour the mixture over the beef stew meat in the crockpot. Gently stir to ensure the meat is coated evenly with the sauce.
4. Cook:
- Cover the crockpot with the lid. Cook on low heat for 7-8 hours or on high heat for 4-5 hours. The beef should become tender and easily shred with a fork when done.
5. Optional Thickening:
- About 30 minutes before serving, if you prefer a thicker gravy, whisk together cornstarch and water in a small bowl until smooth. Stir this mixture into the crockpot. Continue cooking for another 30 minutes to allow the gravy to thicken.
6. Serve:
- Once the beef tips are cooked to your liking and the gravy has reached the desired consistency, serve hot. This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh finish.
Tips for Making Crockpot Beef Tips with Gravy:
Choosing the Meat: Use beef stew meat or chuck roast cut into cubes. These cuts are ideal for slow cooking as they become tender and flavorful.
Flavor Enhancements: Add herbs like thyme or rosemary for additional flavor depth. Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce can also enhance the umami flavor.
Creamy Base Options: Substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of celery or cream of chicken for variation.
Adjusting Consistency: If the gravy is too thick, add a little more beef broth or water. If it’s too thin, extend the cooking time to allow it to reduce further.
Meal Prep: This dish is perfect for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for longer storage.
Variations:
Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms for extra flavor and texture. Sauté them with the onions and garlic before adding to the crockpot.
Vegetables: Include carrots, celery, or bell peppers for added nutrients and color. Add them at the beginning with the other ingredients.
Red Wine: Replace some of the beef broth with red wine for a deeper, richer flavor profile.
Spices: Experiment with different spices such as paprika, thyme, or bay leaves to suit your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions:
- Over Mashed Potatoes: Serve the beef tips and gravy over creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
- With Rice: Spoon the beef and gravy mixture over fluffy white rice or brown rice.
- Alongside Noodles: Toss the beef tips with cooked egg noodles or pasta for a comforting pasta dish.
Easy Crockpot Beef Tips with Gravy is a versatile and comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings. By using simple ingredients and letting the crockpot do the work, you can enjoy tender beef in a flavorful gravy with minimal effort. Whether served over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles, this dish is sure to become a favorite for its rich flavor and ease of preparation.
