Looking for a warm and hearty meal? Slow Cooker Beef Tips & Gravy is the answer! This simple comfort dish features tender beef sirloin paired with savory onions, garlic, and mushrooms. In this article, I’ll guide you through easy steps to create a rich, thick gravy that will have everyone asking for more. Ready to dive into the cozy flavors of home-cooked goodness? Let’s get started!

Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1.5 lbs beef sirloin, cut into bite-sized cubes
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms
The star of this dish is the beef sirloin. It cooks down tender and juicy. I always choose sirloin for its rich, meaty flavor. The onion and garlic add depth. They bring sweetness and a hint of spice. Mushrooms give a lovely texture and earthy taste.
Sauces and Seasonings
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
Worcestershire sauce and soy sauce add umami. They make the dish savory and rich. Thyme brings a subtle herbal note. Black pepper adds warmth. Adjust salt to fit your taste.
Broth and Thickener
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (slurry)
Beef broth is key for flavor and moisture. It helps the beef become tender. The cornstarch slurry thickens the gravy. This gives it a nice, velvety texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Beef
Start by searing the beef cubes. This step locks in flavor. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the beef with salt and black pepper. Add the beef in batches to the hot skillet. Sear until browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the beef and set it aside in the slow cooker.
For seasoning tips, use a good amount of salt and pepper. You can add garlic powder or onion powder for more depth. This simple seasoning makes the beef taste great.
Cooking the Vegetables
Next, sauté the onions, garlic, and mushrooms. In the same skillet, keep the heat at medium. Add the diced onion first and cook for 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and clear. Then, add minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Cook for another 2 minutes. This step builds a rich flavor base for your dish.
Combining Ingredients in Slow Cooker
Now, mix the broth and vegetable mixture. In a mixing bowl, combine beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, thyme, and the sautéed vegetables. Stir well until everything is blended.
Layer the mixture in the slow cooker. Pour the broth mixture over the seared beef cubes. Make sure to stir everything together. This ensures even flavor throughout the dish.
Cooking Times and Temp
For cooking times, you have options. Cook on low for 5-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The low setting makes the beef very tender. The high setting is quicker but may not be as tender. Check doneness by cutting into the beef. It should be easy to pull apart with a fork.
Thickening the Gravy
To thicken the gravy, use a cornstarch slurry. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the slurry. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. This helps thicken the gravy nicely. Let it cook for the last 30 minutes to reach the right thickness.
Serving Suggestions
For serving suggestions, this dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. These sides soak up the tasty gravy. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It adds a nice touch to the plate and some fresh flavor. Enjoy your hearty meal!
Tips & Tricks
Best Practices
– Searing tips for flavor: Searing the beef first adds rich taste. Heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the cubes with salt and black pepper. Brown the beef on all sides before adding it to the slow cooker. This step makes a big difference in flavor.
– Cleaning and prep suggestions: Clean your skillet right after searing. This prevents stuck bits from burning. Chop your veggies ahead of time. This keeps your cooking smooth and quick.
Flavor Enhancements
– Adding additional spices: Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne for heat. These spices can elevate the dish. You can also use fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a brighter flavor.
– Using broth alternatives: If you want more depth, use homemade beef stock. It adds richness that’s hard to beat. You can also mix in a splash of red wine for extra layers of flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
– Overcooking the beef: Cooking too long can dry out the beef. Stick to the recommended times. Check for tenderness at the end of cooking to ensure it’s just right.
– Not thickening enough: If your gravy is too thin, it can feel watery. Use the cornstarch slurry 30 minutes before serving to thicken it up. Stir well and let it cook to reach the right consistency.
Variations
Alternative Cuts of Meat
You can swap beef sirloin for other cuts. Chuck roast works well. It adds rich flavor. Brisket is another great choice. Just adjust the cooking time. Chuck needs about 6-8 hours on low. Brisket may take 5-7 hours.
Recipe Modifications
Adding veggies makes this dish even better. Try carrots for sweetness. Peas add a pop of color. You can also change the gravy style. A cream-based gravy is rich and tasty. Just add heavy cream near the end of cooking.
Dietary Recommendations
To make this dish gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce. You can also skip the cornstarch. Instead, use arrowroot powder for thickening. For low-carb options, serve with cauliflower rice. This keeps it hearty without the carbs.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Tips
To store leftovers, first let the dish cool down. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps the beef tips and gravy fresh. Be sure to use containers that seal well. Glass and BPA-free plastic work great. Store your leftovers in the fridge for up to three days.
Reheating Instructions
For reheating, the best method is the stovetop. Place the beef tips in a pan over low heat. Stir gently to warm it through. You can also use a microwave. Just make sure to cover it loosely to keep moisture. Adding a splash of beef broth can help keep it juicy.
Freezing Directions
To freeze, let the dish cool completely first. Then, transfer the beef tips and gravy into a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave some space at the top for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
How long does it take to cook beef tips in a slow cooker?
Cooking beef tips in a slow cooker takes about 5-7 hours on low. If you are short on time, you can cook them on high for 3-4 hours. The low setting makes the beef tender and juicy. The high setting works too, but the texture may differ slightly.
Can I use frozen beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen beef. However, it is best to thaw it first. Thawing overnight in the fridge is safe. If you are in a hurry, place the beef in cold water. Be sure to change the water every 30 minutes. For cooking, add about an hour to the time if you start with frozen beef.
Is it possible to cook this dish without a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook this dish on the stove or in the oven. For the stove, brown the beef in a pot, add the broth, and simmer on low for 1.5 to 2 hours. If using the oven, place everything in a Dutch oven and cook at 300°F for about 2-3 hours. Both methods will give you tender beef.
What can I serve with Slow Cooker Beef Tips & Gravy?
Slow Cooker Beef Tips & Gravy pairs well with several sides. Mashed potatoes are a classic choice. Rice or egg noodles also work great. You can add steamed veggies for color and nutrition. A side salad can brighten the meal too.
How to modify the recipe for more servings?
To make more servings, simply adjust the ingredient amounts. For each extra serving, add about 0.5 lbs of beef. Increase the broth and seasonings accordingly. Keep the same cooking time, but check for doneness. This way, everyone can enjoy a hearty meal.
This post covered how to make slow cooker beef tips and gravy. You learned about key ingredients like beef sirloin, onions, and mushrooms. We discussed cooking steps, tips for flavor, and how to avoid common mistakes. You also saw variations like different meats and dietary modifications.
Now, you’re ready to make this dish! Use the tips shared here for better results. Enjoy your cooking and impress everyone at the table.
