Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy

Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. This dish features tender pieces of chuck roast that are slow-cooked to perfection, enveloped in a rich beefy mushroom gravy. Whether you’re serving it over rice or mashed potatoes, these beef tips will impress your family and friends at any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Simply toss everything into your crockpot and let it do the work while you relax.
• Flavorful Gravy: The combination of beef broth and mushroom soup creates a savory sauce that elevates every bite.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over rice, mashed potatoes, or even pasta for a delicious meal any day of the week.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a large batch ahead of time; it reheats beautifully for leftovers throughout the week.
• Kid-Approved: The mild flavors and tender meat make this dish a hit with kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools is essential to ensure your cooking process goes smoothly. Here are a few kitchen essentials you’ll need.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Slow cooker
• Skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring spoons

Why These Tools Matter

• Slow cooker: Perfect for achieving tender meat through low and slow cooking; ideal for busy schedules.
• Skillet: Allows for proper searing, creating a golden crust that enhances flavor before slow cooking.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for preparing and mixing ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Helps combine liquids evenly, ensuring smooth gravy without lumps.

Ingredients

This Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy recipe features perfectly seasoned bite-sized chuck roast pieces, slow-cooked until they are melt-in-your-mouth tender and topped with a beefy mushroom gravy.

For the Beef Tips

• 2-3 pounds chuck roast (diced into 1-inch pieces)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ tablespoon garlic powder
• ½ tablespoon onion powder

For the Gravy

• 1 Au Jus gravy packet
• ½ packet Lipton onion soup mix
• 14.5 ounce can beef broth
• 10.5 ounce can beefy mushroom soup
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

How to Make Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy

Step 1: Prepare the Meat

1. Add meat to a large mixing bowl.
2. Pour in 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Toss the meat until every piece is coated in seasoning.

Step 2: Sear the Meat

1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Add the seasoned meat piece by piece to avoid overcrowding.
3. Sear each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown; you may need to cook in batches depending on how much meat you have.

Step 3: Mix the Gravy Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine beef broth, beefy mushroom soup, half of the Lipton onion soup mix, and Au Jus gravy packet.
2. Whisk until well combined.

Step 4: Combine in Crockpot

1. Transfer the seared meat to the crockpot.
2. Pour over the gravy mixture and stir to combine.

Step 5: Cook

1. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
2. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with cold water until dissolved; add it to the crockpot and stir well.
3. Let it sit for an additional 5 minutes to thicken before serving.

Serve your delicious Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy over rice or mashed potatoes and enjoy!

How to Serve Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy

Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy is a hearty dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer a classic plate or something more creative, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal experience.

Over Rice

• Rice provides a neutral base that absorbs the rich flavors of the gravy, making each bite satisfying.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes pair perfectly with beef tips, allowing you to soak up every drop of the delicious gravy.

In a Sandwich

• Serve the beef tips on a crusty roll for a delicious sandwich option that’s great for lunch or dinner.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Adding fresh parsley or thyme as a garnish brightens the dish and adds an extra layer of flavor.

In a Bowl with Vegetables

• Create a comforting bowl by adding steamed or roasted vegetables alongside the beef tips and gravy.

On Noodles

• Serve over egg noodles for an easy and comforting twist that complements the savory sauce beautifully.

How to Perfect Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy

To achieve the best results with your Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance both flavor and texture.

• Sear the Meat: Browning the beef before slow cooking adds depth and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Use Quality Broth: Select a high-quality beef broth for richer taste; it makes a significant difference in flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your dish before serving; adjust salt and pepper to suit your preference.
• Thicken Properly: Mix cornstarch with cold water to prevent clumping when thickening your gravy.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps thicken the sauce further and improves consistency.
• Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or peas during cooking for added nutrition and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy

Pairing sides with your Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy can elevate your meal. Here are some delightful options:

1. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering the main dish.
2. Garlic Bread
   Perfect for soaking up excess gravy, garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser.
3. Roasted Carrots
   Sweet roasted carrots complement the savory flavors of beef tips beautifully.
4. Coleslaw
   A crunchy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the rich gravy.
5. Baked Potatoes
   Fluffy baked potatoes provide an excellent canvas for enjoying beef tips and gravy with ease.
6. Side Salad
   A simple green salad adds freshness and balances out the richness of this hearty dish.
7. Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn adds a delightful pop of flavor and texture alongside your main course.
8. Quinoa Pilaf
   For a nutritious alternative, quinoa pilaf brings additional protein and fiber while absorbing delicious juices from the beef tips.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the Searing: Not searing the beef before adding it to the crockpot can result in less flavor. Always sear each piece until golden brown for a richer taste.
• Overcrowding the Skillet: Adding too much meat at once can lower the skillet’s temperature, leading to steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches for best results.
• Ignoring Seasoning Balance: Using too little seasoning can lead to bland gravy. Ensure that you season the beef well and adjust flavors in your broth mixture.
• Not Thicken Enough: If you skip adding cornstarch or don’t allow enough time for thickening, your gravy may be too thin. Always follow the thickening instructions for a luscious sauce.
• Inadequate Cook Time: Cooking on low for too short a time won’t yield tender beef tips. Stick to the recommended cooking times for optimal tenderness.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days.
• Let the dish cool before refrigerating to maintain texture.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Freezing Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy

• Freeze in suitable containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Portion out servings for easy thawing and reheating.
• Remove as much air as possible from bags to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat covered in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe container, covered, stirring halfway through until hot. Use medium power for even heating.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring often to avoid sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy?

Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy is a savory dish made with tender beef chunks slow-cooked in a rich mushroom gravy, perfect over rice or mashed potatoes.

How can I customize my Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy?

You can add vegetables like carrots or peas, switch up seasonings, or use different types of broth for unique flavors.

Can I use a different cut of meat?

Yes! While chuck roast is ideal, you can also use round steak or brisket if preferred.

What should I serve with Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or even crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy.

How long does it take to cook?

Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The longer cooking time ensures tender meat.

Conclusion

Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy is not just delicious but also versatile and easy to make. You can customize it with various ingredients and sides according to your preferences. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how simple yet satisfying it is!

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