Comfort in a Bowl (Beef Tips and Gravy)

Ah, the joy of a hearty home-cooked meal! There’s something absolutely magical about a steaming plate of Beef Tips and Gravy that makes your heart sing and your taste buds dance. This dish is a warm hug on a chilly evening, boasting tender sirloin tips enveloped in a luscious, velvety gravy that’s bursting with flavor. Picture this: rich, savory bites served over creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy egg noodles, or fluffy rice – it’s comfort food at its finest, inviting you to gather around the table with family and friends for a delightful feast!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with the delightful symphony of flavors and textures in this dish! Here’s why you’ll want to whip up this Beef Tips and Gravy:

– Big, Bold Flavors: The combination of savory beef, aromatic spices, and a silky gravy will have your taste buds singing!
– Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or dinner parties, this dish is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
– Flexible & Fast: You can make it on the stovetop or let it simmer in the slow cooker, allowing for easy prep and cleanup!
– Make-Ahead Magic: Perfect for meal prep, this dish tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for leftovers!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is the first exciting step toward creating this comforting masterpiece. The blend of spices and the richness of the sirloin tips are destined to create a flavor-packed gravy that’s simply irresistible!

Main Ingredients:

– 1 ½ lbs. sirloin tips
– 3 tablespoons flour
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon brown sugar
– ¼ 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

*Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.*

Variations

One of the best things about Beef Tips and Gravy is how customizable it is! Here are some fun variations to make this dish your own:

– Go Gluten-Free: Swap out the regular flour for gluten-free flour or cornstarch for a carefree option!
– Add Extra Protein: Toss in mushrooms or peas for added texture and flavor – they’ll soak up that delicious gravy!
– Make it Spicier: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños for a delightful kick.
– Swap the Dressing: Try using balsamic vinegar or red wine for a unique twist on the traditional flavor.
– Cheese it Up: For an extra layer of richness, sprinkle some Parmesan cheese over the top before serving.

How to Make Beef Tips and Gravy

Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your Beef Tips and Gravy masterpiece:

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Before diving in, gather all your ingredients and measure out your beef seasoning mix. Getting organized makes cooking a breeze!

Step 2: Cube the Beef

Cut the sirloin into 1-inch cubes, and don’t forget to remove any large pieces of fat to keep it lean and tender.

Step 3: Season and Flour the Meat

Sprinkle the beef seasoning mix generously over the meat, tossing to coat it evenly. Then, add the flour and give it another toss for that perfect crust!

Step 4: Brown the Beef

Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned meat in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear each side for 30-45 seconds until beautifully browned. Transfer to a plate and repeat for the remaining beef.

Step 5: Deglaze the Pan

Pour in ¼ cup of apple vinegar, and with a silicone spatula, scrape up the browned bits from the bottom of the pan – this “fond” adds incredible depth to your gravy!

Step 6: Sauté the Onions

Let the vinegar gently bubble and reduce by half, then toss in the butter and diced onions. Cook until the onions soften, about 5 minutes.

Step 7: Add Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and let it bloom for about a minute, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas!

Step 8: Bring on the Gravy

Add the beef broth, bouillon cube, Worcestershire sauce, and all remaining seasoning. Bring it to a delightful boil.

Step 9: Thicken the Sauce

Combine the cornstarch and cold water, whisking it into the bubbling gravy a little at a time until it reaches your desired thickness.

Step 10: Simmer the Beef

Reduce the heat to medium-low, return the beef along with any juices from the plate, and cover partially with a lid. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until the beef is perfectly tender.

Step 11: Optional Finish

For a silky finish, swirl in 1 tablespoon of cold butter at the end – this is known as “Monter au Beurre” and makes all the difference!

Step 12: Serve and Enjoy!

Spoon those luscious beef tips over a mountain of creamy mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or fluffy rice, and prepare to be amazed!

Pro Tips for Making Beef Tips and Gravy

– Perfectly Browned Beef: Ensure not to overcrowd the pan while browning the beef. This allows for a beautiful crust and rich flavor.
– Vinegar Magic: Don’t skip the step of deglazing with vinegar; those browned bits are flavor gold!
– Taste as You Go: Always taste your gravy and adjust seasonings as needed. Cooking is all about personal preference!
– Let It Rest: If time allows, let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving – the flavors deepen and the gravy thickens up beautifully!

How to Serve Beef Tips and Gravy

Garnishes:

Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness on top of your dish!

Side Dishes:

Complement your Beef Tips and Gravy with buttery mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a crisp salad for a balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present:

Serve individual portions in rustic bowls for a cozy feel, or pile it high on a big platter for family-style dining. Perfect for potlucks or cozy gatherings!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers:

Store any leftover Beef Tips and Gravy in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Trust me, it only gets better with time!

Freezing:

Yes! This dish freezes beautifully. Just let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months frozen!

Reheating:

Reheat in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if it’s too thick. Alternatively, use the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?
Absolutely! Cuts like chuck or round will work fine, just remember they may require a longer cooking time to become tender.

Is this recipe spicy?
Not at all! It has mild seasoning, but feel free to add some heat if you like!

Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the beef and gravy ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. Perfect for meal prep!

How do I make this gluten-free?
Simply substitute the flour with a gluten-free alternative and use gluten-free beef broth, and you’re all set!

Final Thoughts

There you have it! This Beef Tips and Gravy recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with warmth, flavor, and comfort. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is bound to impress and satisfy. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a delicious dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Happy cooking! 🍽️