Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy

Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy is the ultimate comfort food for busy days and cozy family dinners. This slow cooker recipe brings out the best in tender beef stew meat, cooked to perfection in a rich, savory gravy. It’s an easy meal to prepare, requiring just a few ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Whether served over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles, this dish is sure to be a hit at your table.

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Why You Will Love This Recipe

• Time-saving: Perfect for busy weeknights when you want a warm, hearty meal without much prep.
• Tender Beef: The slow cooking process ensures that the beef is incredibly tender, practically melting in your mouth.
• Flavorful Gravy: The rich gravy made from beef broth, onions, garlic, and seasonings gives every bite a comforting depth of flavor.
• Versatile: This dish can be served with a variety of sides, making it adaptable to your taste preferences.
• Easy to Customize: Add vegetables like carrots or mushrooms to boost the nutrition and flavor.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment

To make Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy, you’ll need:

• 6-quart Slow Cooker: The star of the recipe, where all the magic happens. It allows the beef to cook low and slow, making it tender and flavorful.
• Medium Mixing Bowl: For combining all the seasonings and liquids that will create the flavorful gravy.
• Whisk: To ensure the gravy ingredients are well-mixed, without clumps.
• Tongs or Slotted Spoon: To place the beef into the slow cooker without making a mess.
• Measuring Spoons and Cups: For accurate measurements of ingredients like cornstarch, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce.

Importance of Each Tool

• The slow cooker is essential for the long cooking process, which allows the beef to become tender and absorb all the rich flavors of the gravy.
• A mixing bowl and whisk ensure the seasonings are evenly combined for a smooth gravy.
• Measuring cups and spoons ensure consistency in flavor, so you get the perfect balance of savory, salty, and slightly sweet elements in the sauce.

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Preparation Tips

• Pat the Beef Dry: Before adding the stew meat to the slow cooker, make sure to pat it dry with paper towels. This will help the beef brown better (if you sear it beforehand) and ensure that the gravy has the right consistency.
• Customize the Gravy: If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can always add extra cornstarch toward the end of the cooking time. Simply mix it with water and stir it in. You can also reduce the amount of liquid for a more concentrated flavor.
• Add Vegetables: Adding vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, or mushrooms halfway through cooking not only enhances the dish but also adds extra nutrients.

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List of Required Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef stew meat (or beef tips)
• 1 packet dry onion soup mix (1 oz)
• 2 cups beef broth (use gluten-free if needed)
• 3 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 3 tbsp cornstarch (for thickening)
• 3 tbsp minced garlic
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Beef
   Pat the beef stew meat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps in browning the meat and ensures the gravy doesn’t become too watery.
2. Mix the Seasonings
   In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the beef broth, dry onion soup mix, garlic, thyme, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. This will form your gravy base.
3. Add to Slow Cooker
   Place the beef stew meat into the slow cooker. Pour the seasoning mixture over the beef, ensuring the meat is well-coated with the liquid.
4. Cook
   Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or until the beef is tender and the gravy has thickened. The slow cooking process allows the beef to absorb all the savory flavors.
5. Serve
   Once the beef is tender, it’s ready to serve. Ladle the beef and gravy over your choice of mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles. Enjoy the dish hot!

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Tips & Variations

• For a thicker gravy: If you prefer a thicker consistency, add an extra 1-2 teaspoons of cornstarch mixed with water near the end of the cooking time. Stir until it thickens.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free onion soup mix and beef broth to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Add Vegetables: Halfway through cooking, add carrots, mushrooms, or pearl onions to make the dish more hearty and nutritious.
• Try Different Meats: Although beef stew meat is the traditional cut, you can try using chuck roast or other cuts of beef that benefit from slow cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some of the best serving ideas to enhance your meal:

Perfect Pairings

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes soak up the flavorful gravy, creating a perfect combination of textures and flavors.
• Steamed White or Brown Rice: For a lighter option, serve the beef tips over fluffy rice to balance the rich gravy.
• Buttered Egg Noodles: These absorb the gravy well, making for a hearty, satisfying meal.
• Cauliflower Mash: A low-carb alternative that complements the dish’s rich flavors.
• Crusty Bread: Use crusty bread to scoop up every last bit of the delicious gravy.
• Baked Sweet Potatoes: Add a slightly sweet contrast to the savory beef and gravy.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts for a healthy, colorful plate.
• Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty beef tips.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

Mistakes to Avoid

1. Skipping the Browning (Optional)
   • Although optional, browning the beef in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker enhances the flavor and texture.
2. Not Patting the Beef Dry
   • Excess moisture on the beef prevents it from browning properly and can dilute the gravy.
3. Using Too Much Liquid
   • Overloading the slow cooker with liquid can make the gravy thin and watery. Stick to the recipe measurements.
4. Overcooking on High Heat
   • Cooking the beef on high heat can result in tough, chewy meat. Always cook on low for tender results.
5. Skipping Cornstarch or Thickening Agents
   • Forgetting to thicken the gravy can leave the dish less satisfying. Always mix cornstarch with water before adding to the gravy.

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How to Perfect the Recipe

• Layering for Flavor: Place half the seasoning mix on the bottom of the slow cooker, add the beef, then pour the rest on top. This ensures every bite is flavorful.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Taste the gravy before serving and add more salt, pepper, or Worcestershire sauce if needed.
• Vegetable Add-Ins: Add vegetables like mushrooms or carrots halfway through cooking for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
• Gravy Texture: If the gravy becomes too thick, thin it out with a splash of beef broth.

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Side Dish Recommendations

1. Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes

• Mash boiled potatoes with butter, cream, and minced garlic for a luscious side that complements the gravy.

2. Herbed Rice Pilaf

• Add sautéed onions, garlic, and fresh herbs to steamed rice for a flavorful twist.

3. Buttered Egg Noodles

• Toss cooked egg noodles in butter and a sprinkle of parsley for a simple yet indulgent pairing.

4. Roasted Vegetables

• Roast carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper for a healthy, flavorful side.

5. Green Beans Almondine

• Sauté green beans with butter and toasted almonds for a crunchy, nutty complement.

6. Cauliflower Mash

• A great low-carb alternative to potatoes, mashed cauliflower is creamy and pairs well with the savory beef tips.

7. Dinner Rolls or Crusty Bread

• Perfect for dipping into the rich, flavorful gravy.

8. Fresh Garden Salad

• Toss mixed greens with cucumber, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the beef dish.

Serving Suggestions

Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some of the best serving ideas to enhance your meal:

Perfect Pairings

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes soak up the flavorful gravy, creating a perfect combination of textures and flavors.
• Steamed White or Brown Rice: For a lighter option, serve the beef tips over fluffy rice to balance the rich gravy.
• Buttered Egg Noodles: These absorb the gravy well, making for a hearty, satisfying meal.
• Cauliflower Mash: A low-carb alternative that complements the dish’s rich flavors.
• Crusty Bread: Use crusty bread to scoop up every last bit of the delicious gravy.
• Baked Sweet Potatoes: Add a slightly sweet contrast to the savory beef and gravy.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts for a healthy, colorful plate.
• Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty beef tips.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

Mistakes to Avoid

1. Skipping the Browning (Optional)
   • Although optional, browning the beef in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker enhances the flavor and texture.
2. Not Patting the Beef Dry
   • Excess moisture on the beef prevents it from browning properly and can dilute the gravy.
3. Using Too Much Liquid
   • Overloading the slow cooker with liquid can make the gravy thin and watery. Stick to the recipe measurements.
4. Overcooking on High Heat
   • Cooking the beef on high heat can result in tough, chewy meat. Always cook on low for tender results.
5. Skipping Cornstarch or Thickening Agents
   • Forgetting to thicken the gravy can leave the dish less satisfying. Always mix cornstarch with water before adding to the gravy.

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How to Perfect the Recipe

• Layering for Flavor: Place half the seasoning mix on the bottom of the slow cooker, add the beef, then pour the rest on top. This ensures every bite is flavorful.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Taste the gravy before serving and add more salt, pepper, or Worcestershire sauce if needed.
• Vegetable Add-Ins: Add vegetables like mushrooms or carrots halfway through cooking for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
• Gravy Texture: If the gravy becomes too thick, thin it out with a splash of beef broth.

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Side Dish Recommendations

1. Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes

• Mash boiled potatoes with butter, cream, and minced garlic for a luscious side that complements the gravy.

2. Herbed Rice Pilaf

• Add sautéed onions, garlic, and fresh herbs to steamed rice for a flavorful twist.

3. Buttered Egg Noodles

• Toss cooked egg noodles in butter and a sprinkle of parsley for a simple yet indulgent pairing.

4. Roasted Vegetables

• Roast carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper for a healthy, flavorful side.

5. Green Beans Almondine

• Sauté green beans with butter and toasted almonds for a crunchy, nutty complement.

6. Cauliflower Mash

• A great low-carb alternative to potatoes, mashed cauliflower is creamy and pairs well with the savory beef tips.

7. Dinner Rolls or Crusty Bread

• Perfect for dipping into the rich, flavorful gravy.

8. Fresh Garden Salad

• Toss mixed greens with cucumber, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the beef dish.

Serving Suggestions

Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some of the best serving ideas to enhance your meal:

Perfect Pairings

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes soak up the flavorful gravy, creating a perfect combination of textures and flavors.
• Steamed White or Brown Rice: For a lighter option, serve the beef tips over fluffy rice to balance the rich gravy.
• Buttered Egg Noodles: These absorb the gravy well, making for a hearty, satisfying meal.
• Cauliflower Mash: A low-carb alternative that complements the dish’s rich flavors.
• Crusty Bread: Use crusty bread to scoop up every last bit of the delicious gravy.
• Baked Sweet Potatoes: Add a slightly sweet contrast to the savory beef and gravy.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts for a healthy, colorful plate.
• Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty beef tips.

---

Common Mistakes to Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

Mistakes to Avoid

1. Skipping the Browning (Optional)
   • Although optional, browning the beef in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker enhances the flavor and texture.
2. Not Patting the Beef Dry
   • Excess moisture on the beef prevents it from browning properly and can dilute the gravy.
3. Using Too Much Liquid
   • Overloading the slow cooker with liquid can make the gravy thin and watery. Stick to the recipe measurements.
4. Overcooking on High Heat
   • Cooking the beef on high heat can result in tough, chewy meat. Always cook on low for tender results.
5. Skipping Cornstarch or Thickening Agents
   • Forgetting to thicken the gravy can leave the dish less satisfying. Always mix cornstarch with water before adding to the gravy.

---

How to Perfect the Recipe

• Layering for Flavor: Place half the seasoning mix on the bottom of the slow cooker, add the beef, then pour the rest on top. This ensures every bite is flavorful.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Taste the gravy before serving and add more salt, pepper, or Worcestershire sauce if needed.
• Vegetable Add-Ins: Add vegetables like mushrooms or carrots halfway through cooking for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
• Gravy Texture: If the gravy becomes too thick, thin it out with a splash of beef broth.

---

Side Dish Recommendations

1. Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes

• Mash boiled potatoes with butter, cream, and minced garlic for a luscious side that complements the gravy.

2. Herbed Rice Pilaf

• Add sautéed onions, garlic, and fresh herbs to steamed rice for a flavorful twist.

3. Buttered Egg Noodles

• Toss cooked egg noodles in butter and a sprinkle of parsley for a simple yet indulgent pairing.

4. Roasted Vegetables

• Roast carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper for a healthy, flavorful side.

5. Green Beans Almondine

• Sauté green beans with butter and toasted almonds for a crunchy, nutty complement.

6. Cauliflower Mash

• A great low-carb alternative to potatoes, mashed cauliflower is creamy and pairs well with the savory beef tips.

7. Dinner Rolls or Crusty Bread

• Perfect for dipping into the rich, flavorful gravy.

8. Fresh Garden Salad

• Toss mixed greens with cucumber, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the beef dish.

Recipe Tips

1. Customize the Gravy:
   • For a richer flavor, add a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar to the gravy mixture before cooking.
   • If the gravy is too salty, balance it with a touch of sugar or cream to mellow the flavors.
2. Choose the Right Meat:
   • Use beef stew meat, chuck roast, or sirloin tips for the best texture and flavor. These cuts become tender when cooked slowly.
3. Vegetable Additions:
   • Include mushrooms, carrots, or pearl onions halfway through the cooking time for extra flavor and nutrition.
4. Thickening the Gravy:
   • If the gravy is too thin, mix 1-2 teaspoons of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the slow cooker. Let it cook for another 10-15 minutes to thicken.

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftover beef tips and gravy in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze the cooled beef and gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of beef broth or water if the gravy has thickened too much.
• Microwave: Reheat in a microwave-safe dish, covered, for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Slow Cooker: For larger portions, reheat on low for 1-2 hours.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free onion soup mix and beef broth to make this recipe gluten-free.

2. Can I cook this on high instead of low?

While you can cook on high for 3-4 hours, cooking on low for 7-8 hours is recommended for tender beef and deeper flavor.

3. What other meats can I use?

You can substitute stew meat with chuck roast, sirloin tips, or even pork shoulder for a different twist.

4. Can I add vegetables directly to the slow cooker?

Yes! Add vegetables like carrots, mushrooms, or potatoes halfway through the cooking time to avoid them becoming too soft.

5. How can I make the gravy thicker?

Mix 1-2 teaspoons of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the slow cooker 20-30 minutes before serving.

6. What can I serve this with besides mashed potatoes or rice?

Other great options include buttered egg noodles, roasted vegetables, baked sweet potatoes, or crusty bread.

7. Can I use fresh onions instead of onion soup mix?

Yes! Sauté finely chopped onions with garlic and use them as a base before adding the liquid ingredients.

8. Can I prepare this dish the night before?

Absolutely! Combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Start cooking the next day.

9. Why is my beef not tender?

If the beef is not tender, it may need more time. Ensure you cook it on low for the full 7-8 hours for the best texture.

10. How do I adjust the recipe for more servings?

Double the ingredients and ensure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the increased volume. Cooking time may need slight adjustments.

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Conclusion

Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy is the perfect recipe for creating a comforting and hearty meal with minimal effort. The tender beef, rich gravy, and customizable serving options make it a versatile dish for any occasion. With the tips, serving suggestions, and FAQs provided, you’ll have everything you need to make this recipe a resounding success.

Whether you’re preparing it for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this slow cooker recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Pair it with your favorite sides, and don’t forget to enjoy every bite of this savory, comforting classic!

If you loved this recipe, explore more slow cooker favorites on our site for easy and delicious meal ideas!