Beef Tips and Gravy
Introduction
Beef Tips and Gravy is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for any dinner. Whether you’re seeking comfort food for a cozy family meal or something to impress your friends, this recipe checks all the boxes. The tender beef, paired with rich and savory gravy, creates a dish that warms the heart and delights the taste buds. Serve it over your favorite side dishes, and you have a complete meal everyone will love.
Why Make This Recipe
If you’re looking for an easy and delicious dinner option, Beef Tips and Gravy is the way to go. Not only does this recipe feature simple ingredients you might already have in your kitchen, but it also comes together quickly for a weeknight meal that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours. With its rich flavors and tender beef, it’s a dish that will satisfy your cravings and bring warmth to your table. Perfect for busy evenings or special gatherings, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
How to Make Beef Tips and Gravy
Making Beef Tips and Gravy is a straightforward process that yields rich flavors and tender meat. Begin by preparing your ingredients, ensuring you have everything at hand. Cut your sirloin into bite-sized pieces and coat them with a flavorful seasoning mix. Brown the beef in a skillet with olive oil, and use the fond left in the pan to build a superior gravy. Combine the beef with a mixture of broth, spices, and cornstarch, letting it simmer until it thickens. In no time, you’ll have a comforting dish that pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or noodles.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs. sirloin tips
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup dry red wine (optional)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 beef bouillon cube
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 cup cold water
Directions
Prepare the Beef: Cut the sirloin into 1-inch cubes, trimming away any large pieces of fat. In a bowl, combine flour and beef seasoning mix. Sprinkle this mixture over the beef cubes, tossing to coat evenly.
Brown the Meat: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. In batches, add the beef to the skillet and brown on each side for about 30-45 seconds. Once browned, transfer the meat to a plate and set aside.
Create the Gravy Base: Deglaze the skillet by adding dry red wine (if using), scraping the bottom to release any flavorful bits. Let the wine reduce by half.
Add Onions and Garlic: Mix in the butter and diced onions, cooking until the onions soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Make the Gravy: Combine beef broth, bouillon cube, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and additional spices in the skillet. Bring this mixture to a boil.
Thicken the Gravy: In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry. Whisk this into the gravy until you reach your desired thickness.
Simmer the Beef: Add the browned beef back into the skillet. Reduce heat to medium-low and let cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Finishing Touch: Optionally, swirl in cold butter before serving for a richer taste.
How to Serve Beef Tips and Gravy
Beef Tips and Gravy is versatile and can be served in several ways. The classic pairing is with creamy mashed potatoes, allowing the rich gravy to soak into the fluffy goodness. Alternatively, serve it over egg noodles or rice for a satisfying meal. Don’t forget to garnish with freshly chopped herbs or a sprinkle of black pepper for that extra touch. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or an intimate dinner, ensuring every bite is filled with flavor.
How to Store Beef Tips and Gravy
Leftovers of Beef Tips and Gravy can be stored easily. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it into airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the beef tips and gravy. Transfer the dish to a freezer-safe container, label it with the date, and freeze for up to three months. Proper storage helps retain the beef’s tenderness and the gravy’s rich flavors.
Tips to Make Beef Tips and Gravy
Choose Quality Meat: Opt for good-quality sirloin tips for the best flavor. You can also use chuck roast or tenderloin for a different texture.
Don’t Rush the Browning: Taking the time to brown the beef properly creates depth of flavor, as the caramelized bits enhance your gravy.
Adjust the Thickness: If your gravy is too thick, add more beef broth or water a little at a time to reach the desired consistency.
Add Vegetables: Feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms or carrots for extra nutrients and flavor.
Can You Freeze Beef Tips and Gravy?
Yes, Beef Tips and Gravy freeze very well. After cooking, let the dish cool completely and transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It’s best to consume frozen leftovers within three months for optimal taste and quality. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the dish in the fridge overnight and reheat it on the stove or microwave until warmed through.
How to Reheat Beef Tips and Gravy
Reheating Beef Tips and Gravy is simple. If frozen, first allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight. To reheat, place it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the gravy has thickened too much, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up. Alternatively, you can use the microwave, heating in 30-second increments until it reaches your desired temperature.
Variation
For a twist, try adding some mushrooms or bell peppers to the gravy while cooking. You can also substitute the beef for chicken or pork, adjusting the cooking time as necessary. If you’re looking for something a bit spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for some heat!
FAQs
Can I make Beef Tips and Gravy without wine?
Yes, you can simply substitute it with beef broth or water if you prefer not to use wine.What is the best way to thicken the gravy?
Using a cornstarch slurry is the best method. Mix cornstarch with cold water, then whisk it into the boiling gravy until thickened.Can I use a different cut of beef?
Absolutely! Cuts like chuck roast or flank steak can work well, although cooking times may vary slightly due to tenderness.How can I enhance the flavor of my gravy?
Adding Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and fresh herbs can elevate the taste. Browning the meat well also contributes significantly to the flavor profile.What should I serve with Beef Tips and Gravy?
Classic sides include mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the gravy.
Beef Tips and Gravy
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs sirloin tips Cut into bite-sized cubes
- 3 tablespoons flour For coating the beef
- 3 tablespoons olive oil For browning the beef
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup dry red wine Optional
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small yellow onion Diced
- 3 cloves garlic Minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cube beef bouillon
- 1.5 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 cup cold water
Instructions
Preparation
- Cut the sirloin into 1-inch cubes, trimming away any large pieces of fat.
- In a bowl, combine flour and beef seasoning mix. Sprinkle this mixture over the beef cubes, tossing to coat evenly.
Cooking
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. In batches, add the beef to the skillet and brown on each side for about 30-45 seconds. Once browned, transfer the meat to a plate and set aside.
- Deglaze the skillet by adding dry red wine (if using), scraping the bottom to release any flavorful bits. Let the wine reduce by half.
- Mix in the butter and diced onions, cooking until the onions soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Combine beef broth, bouillon cube, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and additional spices in the skillet. Bring this mixture to a boil.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry. Whisk this into the gravy until you reach your desired thickness.
- Add the browned beef back into the skillet. Reduce heat to medium-low and let cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Optionally, swirl in cold butter before serving for a richer taste.