When I think of beef tips with gravy, my stomach starts doing little happy dances! It’s a dish that warms you up from the inside out, and pairing it right can elevate the experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider:
1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Who doesn’t love mashed potatoes? They’re the classic sidekick. The creamy texture soaks up that savory gravy beautifully.
2. Steamed Green Beans: These bring a fresh crunch to the table. Their bright color and crispness contrast nicely with the richness of beef tips.
3. Dinner Rolls: Soft, fluffy rolls are perfect for sopping up every last drop of gravy. Trust me, no one wants to leave that gravy behind!
Let’s dive into the delicious details.
Ah, beef tips with gravy—it’s comfort food at its finest. With every bite, you’re met with tender meat and a warm sauce that wraps around your taste buds like a cozy blanket. Whether it’s a weekday dinner or a special occasion, this dish never disappoints. The beef is marinated in a medley of flavors, sautéed until golden brown, and then steeped in a rich, savory gravy. Sounds tempting, doesn’t it?
This dish isn’t just about flavor; it’s the harmony of textures and the heartwarming nostalgia that comes with each forkful. And guess what? I’m here to guide you through each step. So, roll up your sleeves because this culinary adventure awaits!
What are Beef Tips with Gravy?
Beef tips with gravy generally consist of bite-sized pieces of beef, typically sirloin or tenderloin, that are seared to lock in moisture and flavor. They are often served with a luscious gravy made from beef broth, seasoned with onion and garlic, which elevates the dish from ordinary to extraordinary. It’s comfort food you can whip up relatively quickly but feel like a master chef in the process.
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Why This Recipe Works
Let’s explore why this recipe for beef tips with gravy is not just any recipe but the answer to many busy home cooks’ dreams.
1. Simplicity at Its Best
The ingredients are straightforward, and the method is easy to follow. Even if you’re a novice in the kitchen, you can produce an impressive dish that impresses any crowd.
2. Rich and Flavorful Sauce
The gravy made from the beef drippings packs a punch. Coupled with ingredients like Worcestershire sauce and dry red wine, it creates a depth of flavor that lingers.
3. Versatile Serving Options
You can serve beef tips with gravy over a range of sides—mashed potatoes, rice, or even pasta. The flexibility makes it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
4. Meal Prep Friendly
Beef tips with gravy can be made ahead of time. The flavors actually improve when allowed to sit, making it perfect as a hearty meal prep option for busy weeknights.
Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Dish
To whip up a stunning dish of beef tips with gravy, gather the following ingredients:
For the Beef:
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 ½ lbs. sirloin tip steak, cut into bite-sized chunks
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour for coating
Beef Seasoning:
- ½ teaspoon garlic granules
- 1 teaspoon light brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon onion granules
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
For the Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, freshly minced
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- ¼ cup dry red wine (optional, for depth)
- 1 ½ teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 beef bouillon cube (or 1 teaspoon bouillon paste)
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard for added tang
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon low-sodium soy sauce for umami
- ¼ teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed slightly
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme leaves
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch + 1/4 cup cold water, mixed as a slurry
How to Make Beef Tips with Gravy
Ready to learn how to bring this dish to life? Follow these steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Start by cutting the sirloin into bite-sized chunks. Pat them dry with paper towels. This helps to achieve that lovely sear when you cook them. In a bowl, combine the flour with the seasoning ingredients. Toss the beef pieces in the flour mixture until they are well coated. It’s a messy but fun task!
Step 2: Sear the Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the coated beef tips in batches. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lead to steaming instead of browning. Sear them until they’re golden brown on all sides. This should take about 4-5 minutes. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Onions and Garlic
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Toss in the butter, followed by the diced onions. Sauté for around 2-3 minutes until they’re translucent and fragrant. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Remember, burnt garlic is a crime in the kitchen.
Step 4: Create the Gravy Base
Next, pour in the beef broth, along with the red wine if using. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Use a wooden spoon to scrape any delicious browned bits from the bottom of the skillet; this is where the flavor lies.
Step 5: Season the Gravy
Now it’s time to add the Worcestershire sauce, bouillon cube, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, soy sauce, rosemary, and thyme. Stir well and let it simmer for a few minutes. Your kitchen should be smelling divine!
Step 6: Thicken the Gravy
Combine the cornstarch with cold water and mix to form a slurry. Slowly add this to the simmering gravy while continuously stirring. Watch how it thickens up into a luscious sauce, glistening invitingly.
Step 7: Bring Back the Beef
Finally, return the seared beef tips to the skillet. Stir them in and let everything simmer together for another 5-10 minutes. The beef will soak up that magnificent gravy.
Tips & Tricks
Use High-Quality Beef: The cut of beef makes a difference. Sirloin or tenderloin is preferable for tenderness.
Marinate for Extra Flavor: If time allows, marinate the beef in the seasoning for a few hours for deeper flavor.
Don’t Skip the Browning: Thoroughly browning the beef is essential for maximum flavor development.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste the gravy before serving and adjust the salt and spices according to preference.
Serve Hot: Gravy is best enjoyed piping hot. Reheat gently if necessary.
Nutrition Information
How Do You Store the Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored easily. Place any uneaten beef tips with gravy in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. If you’re looking to extend their life, consider freezing them. Just make sure to seal them tightly and consume within three months.
What Sides Would Complement Beef Tips with Gravy?
1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes
The creamy texture of mashed potatoes counters the savory richness of the beef. Plus, they serve as the perfect canvas for gravy.
2. Roasted Vegetables
A colorful medley of seasonal vegetables, such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or broccoli can add a nice crunch. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness.
3. Rice Pilaf
Fluffy rice pilaf, possibly infused with herbs, absorbs any leftover gravy. It rounds out the dish perfectly and adds a heartiness that’s hard to beat.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients?
1. Beef Substitutes
If you want a lighter option, you can use turkey or chicken. Drumsticks or thighs work great in place of beef.
2. Gluten-Free Options
If you’re avoiding gluten, use cornstarch instead of flour for coating the beef. For a thickener, substitute flour with a cornstarch slurry.
3. Broth Variants
For a vegetarian version, swap the beef broth with vegetable broth. It will still keep the dish flavorful and satisfying.
4. Aromatics Variation
Feel free to get creative with the herbs and spices. Try adding fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a burst of freshness.
Beef Tips with Gravy
Equipment
- A large mixing bowl
- saucepan
Ingredients
For the Beef:
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 ½ lbs. sirloin tip steak cut into bite-sized chunks
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour for coating
Beef Seasoning:
- ½ teaspoon garlic granules
- 1 teaspoon light brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon onion granules
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
For the Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small yellow onion finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic freshly minced
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- ¼ cup dry red wine optional, for depth
- 1 ½ teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 beef bouillon cube or 1 teaspoon bouillon paste
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard for added tang
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon low-sodium soy sauce for umami
- ¼ teaspoon dried rosemary crushed slightly
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme leaves
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch + 1/4 cup cold water mixed as a slurry
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
- Start by cutting the sirloin into bite-sized chunks. Pat them dry with paper towels. This helps to achieve that lovely sear when you cook them. In a bowl, combine the flour with the seasoning ingredients. Toss the beef pieces in the flour mixture until they are well coated. It’s a messy but fun task!
Step 2: Sear the Beef
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the coated beef tips in batches. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lead to steaming instead of browning. Sear them until they’re golden brown on all sides. This should take about 4-5 minutes. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Onions and Garlic
- In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Toss in the butter, followed by the diced onions. Sauté for around 2-3 minutes until they’re translucent and fragrant. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Remember, burnt garlic is a crime in the kitchen.
Step 4: Create the Gravy Base
- Next, pour in the beef broth, along with the red wine if using. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Use a wooden spoon to scrape any delicious browned bits from the bottom of the skillet; this is where the flavor lies.
Step 5: Season the Gravy
- Now it’s time to add the Worcestershire sauce, bouillon cube, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, soy sauce, rosemary, and thyme. Stir well and let it simmer for a few minutes. Your kitchen should be smelling divine!
Step 6: Thicken the Gravy
- Combine the cornstarch with cold water and mix to form a slurry. Slowly add this to the simmering gravy while continuously stirring. Watch how it thickens up into a luscious sauce, glistening invitingly.
Step 7: Bring Back the Beef
- Finally, return the seared beef tips to the skillet. Stir them in and let everything simmer together for another 5-10 minutes. The beef will soak up that magnificent gravy.
Notes
- Use High-Quality Beef: The cut of beef makes a difference. Sirloin or tenderloin is preferable for tenderness.
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: If time allows, marinate the beef in the seasoning for a few hours for deeper flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Browning: Thoroughly browning the beef is essential for maximum flavor development.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the gravy before serving and adjust the salt and spices according to preference.
- Serve Hot: Gravy is best enjoyed piping hot. Reheat gently if necessary.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use frozen beef?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before searing. Frozen beef tends to release more moisture, so extra care when browning is needed.
Q2: Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Sure! Adding crushed red pepper flakes during the sauce preparation can introduce an appealing heat to the gravy.
Q3: Can I prepare this dish in a slow cooker?
Yes, just sear the beef first for that added depth of flavor, then throw everything into the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Q4: What if I don’t have red wine?
You can use a splash of vinegar or even omit it altogether. Just adjust the seasonings slightly to compensate for the depth.
Q5: Is this dish kid-friendly?
Definitely! The flavors are hearty and savory, appealing to kids’ tastes. Plus, they can help out with mixing the gravy.
Q6: How do I know when the beef is cooked properly?
You can use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness. For medium, aim for 145°F; for well done, target 160°F.
Conclusion
Beef tips with gravy isn’t just a recipe; it’s an experience. From the initial sizzle of the beef to the comforting aroma of the finished dish, this culinary journey is one for the books. I hope you feel empowered to recreate this classic in your own kitchen. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a family gathering, trust me, this dish will become a beloved staple. Now, let’s dig in and enjoy a heaping plate of these savory, tender beef tips!
