Beef Tips and Gravy
Learn how to make Beef Tips and Gravy from scratch in one pot on the stove top or in the Slow Cooker! This classic comfort food is perfect for cozy family dinners and gatherings. With its rich flavors and tender beef, this dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a special occasion, Beef Tips and Gravy is sure to impress everyone at your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- One-Pot Wonder: Cook everything in one pot for easier cleanup and less hassle.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of seasonings and slow-cooked beef creates a savory gravy that everyone will love.
- Versatile Options: Serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles for a comforting meal that fits your family’s preferences.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a larger batch to enjoy throughout the week or freeze leftovers for future meals.

Tools and Preparation
To create this delicious Beef Tips and Gravy, having the right tools makes all the difference. Gather your equipment before you start cooking to streamline the process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Silicone spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Provides enough space to brown the beef evenly without overcrowding.
- Silicone spatula: Ideal for deglazing the pan without scratching its surface, ensuring you capture all the flavor.
- Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly, especially when making gravies or sauces.
Ingredients
Learn how to make Beef Tips and Gravy from scratch in one pot on the stove top or in the Slow Cooker! This classic comfort food is great with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 ½ lbs. sirloin tips
– 3 tablespoons flour
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– ½ teaspoon EACH: salt, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, paprika
– ¼ cup dry red apple vinegar (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small yellow onion (diced)
– 3 cloves garlic (minced)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 beef bouillon cube
– 1 ½ teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
– ¼ teaspoon EACH: dried thyme, dried rosemary
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– 3 tablespoons corn starch + 1/4 cup cold water
How to Make Beef Tips and Gravy
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
- Combine beef seasoning mix and measure out all gravy ingredients before beginning.
- Cut meat into 1-inch cubes, discarding any large pieces of fat.
Step 2: Season the Beef
- Sprinkle the beef seasoning over the meat. Toss to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle flour over the meat and toss again until well coated.
Step 3: Brown the Meat
- Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the meat in batches; do not overcrowd the pan. Brown on each side for about 30–45 seconds.
- Transfer browned meat to a plate. Repeat with remaining beef until all pieces are cooked.
Step 4: Deglaze the Pan
- Add ¼ cup of apple vinegar to the skillet. Use a silicone spatula to deglaze by scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Allow apple vinegar to bubble gently until reduced by half.
Step 5: Sauté Onions and Garlic
- Reduce heat to medium; add butter and diced onions. Cook until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Add minced garlic; cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 6: Add Remaining Ingredients
- Pour in all remaining gravy ingredients except for the cornstarch mixture. Bring everything to a boil.
Step 7: Thicken The Gravy
- In a separate bowl, combine cornstarch with cold water. Whisk together until smooth.
- Gradually whisk this mixture into the sauce while stirring continuously until desired thickness is reached.
Step 8: Simmer with Beef
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Add browned beef along with any juices from the plate back into the sauce.
- Cover partially with a lid and simmer for about 10–15 minutes until beef is thoroughly cooked.
Step 9: Finish Up
(Optional) Swirl in 1 tablespoon of cold butter at the end for a velvety finish known as “Monter au Beurre.”
Step 10: Serve
Serve your delicious Beef Tips and Gravy over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice! Enjoy this hearty meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone’s taste buds.
How to Serve Beef Tips and Gravy
Beef Tips and Gravy is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal.
With Mashed Potatoes
- Creamy mashed potatoes soak up the flavorful gravy, creating a comforting combination that is hard to resist.
Over Egg Noodles
- Tender egg noodles serve as a perfect base for the beef tips, making every bite deliciously satisfying.
On Rice
- Serving beef tips on a bed of rice allows the savory gravy to seep in, adding flavor and moisture to each grain.
In a Sandwich
- Use crusty bread or rolls to create hearty sandwiches filled with beef tips and gravy for a delightful twist on leftovers.
With Steamed Vegetables
- Pairing beef tips with colorful steamed vegetables adds freshness and balances the richness of the dish.
As a Bowl Meal
- Create a bowl meal by layering beef tips, grains (like quinoa or brown rice), and your choice of veggies for a nutritious option.
How to Perfect Beef Tips and Gravy
To achieve the best Beef Tips and Gravy, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish is packed with flavor and cooked to perfection.
- Choose Quality Meat: Select fresh sirloin tips for better flavor and tenderness in your beef tips.
- Brown Properly: Searing the meat until it’s golden brown adds depth to the gravy through caramelization.
- Deglaze Effectively: Using vinegar to deglaze the pan captures those flavorful bits stuck at the bottom, enhancing your sauce.
- Control Consistency: Adjust the cornstarch mixture gradually for the desired thickness of your gravy.
- Cook Low and Slow: Allowing the beef to simmer helps in tenderizing it while infusing flavors from the gravy.
- Finish with Butter: Adding cold butter at the end gives your sauce a luxurious texture and rich taste.
Best Side Dishes for Beef Tips and Gravy
Pairing side dishes with Beef Tips and Gravy can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:
-
Garlic Bread
Perfect for soaking up any leftover gravy, garlic bread adds a delightful crunch alongside your tender beef tips. -
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Their earthy flavor complements the richness of beef tips, making them an excellent choice for balance. -
Coleslaw
A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, which cuts through the heaviness of the gravy. -
Baked Potatoes
Fluffy baked potatoes provide another vehicle for enjoying savory gravy; top them as you like! -
Creamed Spinach
This classic side offers creaminess that pairs beautifully with beef, enhancing both texture and taste. -
Corn on the Cob
Sweet corn brings brightness to your plate while contrasting nicely with savory flavors of beef. -
Green Bean Almondine
Crisp-tender green beans tossed with toasted almonds add an elegant touch that balances out your meal’s heartiness. -
Mashed Cauliflower
For a lower-carb option, mashed cauliflower serves as a creamy alternative that complements beef tips perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Beef Tips and Gravy can be easy, but there are a few pitfalls to watch out for to ensure the best flavor and texture.
- Skipping the seasoning: Failing to thoroughly season the beef can lead to bland results. Always coat the meat with the seasoning mix before cooking.
- Overcrowding the pan: Cooking too much beef at once prevents browning. Cook in batches to achieve a nice, rich color on each piece.
- Not deglazing properly: Ignoring the flavorful bits left in the pan can result in a less rich gravy. Make sure to deglaze with vinegar or broth to capture all that flavor.
- Using low-quality beef: Cheap cuts may not be as tender or flavorful. Choose sirloin tips for a balance of tenderness and taste.
- Not letting it simmer long enough: Rushing the cooking process can lead to tough meat. Allow it to simmer gently until fully cooked for optimal tenderness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Beef Tips and Gravy will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Beef Tips and Gravy
- Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- It can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Beef Tips and Gravy
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish, covered, stirring occasionally until hot (about 2-3 minutes).
- Stovetop: Reheat gently over medium-low heat, stirring often until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re curious about making Beef Tips and Gravy, check out these frequently asked questions.
Can I use other cuts of beef for Beef Tips and Gravy?
Absolutely! While sirloin is recommended, you can also use tenderloin or chuck roast for different flavors and textures.
How do I make Beef Tips and Gravy spicy?
To add some heat, include cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into your seasoning mix before cooking.
What sides go well with Beef Tips and Gravy?
This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles, creating a comforting meal everyone will love.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it a day ahead and reheat when ready to serve. This often enhances the flavors!
Final Thoughts
Beef Tips and Gravy is a classic comfort food that is both hearty and satisfying. This recipe offers versatility—feel free to customize it with your favorite herbs or spices. Enjoy this warm dish on cold nights, perfect for family dinners!
Beef Tips and Gravy
Beef Tips and Gravy is the ultimate comfort food dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to your dining table. This recipe features tender sirloin tips simmered in a rich, savory gravy that’s perfect for drenching over fluffy mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice. With easy preparation in just one pot, you can enjoy a hearty meal without the hassle of extensive cleanup. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or simply craving something comforting on a chilly evening, Beef Tips and Gravy will delight everyone at your table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs. sirloin tips
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon EACH: salt, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, paprika
- ¼ cup dry red apple vinegar (optional)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 beef bouillon cube
- 1 ½ teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ teaspoon EACH: dried thyme, dried rosemary
- 3 tablespoons corn starch + 1/4 cup cold water
Instructions
- Cut the sirloin into 1-inch cubes and season with flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, paprika, and brown sugar.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and brown the beef in batches; set aside.
- Deglaze the pan with apple vinegar to capture flavorful bits.
- Sauté onions in butter until soft; add minced garlic for an additional minute.
- Combine the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce in the skillet and bring to a boil.
- Thicken the gravy with a cornstarch mixture; return the beef to the sauce and simmer for about 10–15 minutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg