When the weather turns cool or you crave a meal that’s rich, hearty, and soul-warming, this Hearty Beef Tips in Gravy Recipe is the perfect choice. Packed with tender chunks of beef simmered to perfection in a savory, flavorful gravy, this dish is sure to be a family favorite. It’s versatile, comforting, and pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
Ingredients for Beef Tips in Gravy:
- 2 pounds of beef stew meat or sirloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil for browning
- 1 large onion, chopped finely
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced for added flavor
- 2 cups of beef broth (rich and full-bodied for the best taste)
- 1/4 cup of red wine (optional, but adds depth and a sophisticated flavor)
- 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce for an umami boost
- Add a teaspoon of dried thyme for a subtle earthy flavor.
- 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour (to thicken the gravy)
- 1/4 cup of water to mix with the flour
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing and Browning the Beef: Start by seasoning the beef stew meat or sirloin cubes with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This step is important because it infuses the beef with a basic layer of flavor right from the start.
Warm a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium to high heat.. Add the olive oil and allow it to get hot before adding the seasoned beef. Brown the beef on all sides to seal in its juices, building a flavorful crust that deepens the taste.This step should take about 6-8 minutes. Once browned, place the beef on a plate and set it aside.
2. Deglazing and Building Flavor: Pour in the beef broth and the optional red wine. If you’re using wine, make sure to scrape up the browned bits at the bottom of the skillet—these bits are packed with flavor and will enrich the gravy. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and dried thyme, ensuring that all ingredients are well combined. Return the beef tips to the skillet, submerging them in the liquid.
3. Simmering to Perfection: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. When the mixture starts to boil, lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer. Allow the beef to simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours. During this time, the beef stew meat will become tender as it absorbs the flavors of the broth, wine, and seasonings. Check occasionally and give it a gentle stir to ensure even cooking.
4. Thickening the Gravy: In a separate small bowl, mix the all-purpose flour with water until you achieve a smooth, lump-free paste. Gradually add this flour mixture to the simmering beef and broth, stirring continuously. This will thicken the gravy, giving it that rich, velvety texture that coats the back of a spoon. Let the gravy cook for another 5-10 minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.
5. Serving the Beef Tips in Gravy: This dish shines when served over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy white rice, or buttered egg noodles. For an added touch, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top to brighten the dish and add a pop of color.
Tips for the Perfect Beef Tips in Gravy Recipe
- Choosing the Right Cut: For this beef tips recipe, it’s best to use cuts like stew meat, chuck roast, or sirloin. These cuts become tender and flavorful when simmered for an extended time.
- Optional Wine Addition: The red wine is optional but highly recommended as it adds a rich depth to the gravy. If you don’t want to use wine, you can substitute it with more beef broth.
- Thickening Alternative: If you prefer not to use flour, you can thicken the gravy using cornstarch. Just mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and add it in the same way as the flour slurry.
- Vegetable Additions: For more variety, consider adding vegetables like carrots or mushrooms during the simmering stage. These vegetables will absorb the flavors and contribute to the dish’s heartiness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This beef tips in gravy recipe is not just any dish—it’s a warm embrace on a chilly evening, a hearty meal that satisfies both body and soul. The combination of tender beef and rich, thick gravy is truly a comfort food classic that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Nutritional Value: While this dish is indulgent, it can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. To make it healthier, use leaner cuts of beef or reduce the amount of olive oil used for browning. Serve alongside steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions: Pair this hearty beef tips dish with a glass of red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon) to complement the flavors. For non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with a slice of lemon works well to cleanse the palate between bites.
Leftovers: Store any leftover beef tips in gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to revive the gravy’s texture. This recipe can also be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
FAQs about Beef Tips in Gravy
1. What can I serve alongside beef tips in gravy? Some great side dishes include roasted vegetables, a fresh garden salad, or warm crusty bread for dipping into the gravy.
2. How can I make the gravy more flavorful? Boost the flavor by adding a bay leaf or a dash of smoked paprika during the simmering process. You can also add a splash of soy sauce for a richer umami taste.
Enjoy this homemade beef tips in gravy recipe with friends and family—it’s sure to become a requested favorite at your dinner table!