If you are craving a comforting, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day, this Easy Crockpot Beef Tips with Gravy Recipe is exactly what you need. Tender chunks of beef stew meat slow-cooked to perfection in a rich, luscious mushroom gravy create a dish that is both satisfyingly simple and deeply flavorful. With minimal prep and a hands-off cooking approach, this recipe transforms everyday ingredients into a classic family favorite that’s perfect for cozy dinners or casual gatherings alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Easy Crockpot Beef Tips with Gravy Recipe is a breeze because the ingredients are straightforward, yet each one plays a vital role in building layers of comforting flavor and luscious texture.
- 2 lbs beef stew meat: The star of the dish, providing hearty, melt-in-your-mouth bites when slow-cooked properly.
- 10.75 oz can condensed cream of mushroom soup: Adds creaminess and umami that makes the gravy rich and satisfying.
- 0.88 oz packet brown gravy mix: Boosts the savory depth and helps create a thick, delicious gravy.
- 1 cup beef broth: Enhances the meaty flavor while keeping everything wonderfully moist during cooking.
- 1 small onion (diced, about 1/3 cup): Adds sweetness and a subtle crunch that balances the richness.
- 1-2 cloves garlic (minced): Brings aromatic warmth and a flavorful kick to the dish.
- 1 Tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 Tablespoon water: An easy thickening agent for that perfect gravy consistency.
- Optional – Egg noodles or mashed potatoes: Great for serving and soaking up every bit of the tasty gravy.
How to Make Easy Crockpot Beef Tips with Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Gravy Mixture
Start by whisking together the cream of mushroom soup, brown gravy mix, beef broth, diced onion, and minced garlic in a medium bowl. Don’t stress if the mixture looks a bit lumpy because those lumps will smooth out as everything cooks slowly in the crockpot, melding all those wonderful flavors.
Step 2: Combine Beef with Gravy in the Crockpot
Next, place your beef stew meat into a 4-quart crockpot. Pour the prepared gravy mixture over the beef, then gently stir to combine everything evenly. Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on LOW for about 7 hours. This slow and steady cooking method is key to getting those beef tips tender and flavorful.
Step 3: Thicken the Gravy and Final Touches
Once the beef tips are perfectly cooked, carefully remove them with a slotted spoon and set them aside. Now stir the cornstarch and water slurry into the crockpot to thicken the gravy. Place the beef tips back in, cover, and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes. This step transforms the sauce into a velvety gravy that clings beautifully to the beef.
How to Serve Easy Crockpot Beef Tips with Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives brightens the dish visually and adds a fresh burst of flavor that cuts through the richness of the gravy. Feel free to add a dash of cracked black pepper or a tiny splash of Worcestershire sauce to deepen the taste even more.
Side Dishes
This dish truly shines when served atop fluffy mashed potatoes or tender egg noodles. Both soak up the rich gravy wonderfully. For a lighter touch, try serving it with buttered rice or buttered steamed vegetables to keep the meal balanced and colorful.
Creative Ways to Present
For a little twist, you can spoon the beef tips over creamy polenta or even use the mixture as a hearty filling for puff pastry turnovers. These presentations not only elevate the dish but also impress guests with a touch of creative flair that remains effortlessly delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your family feast, simply store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. The flavors actually deepen after a day or two, making it great for next-day lunches or dinners.
Freezing
If you want to keep this Easy Crockpot Beef Tips with Gravy Recipe for longer, freezing is a fantastic option. Just let the beef tips cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag. They’ll keep well for 2-3 months, making them an excellent choice for batch cooking.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of beef broth or water if the gravy has thickened too much. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, just cover loosely to keep moisture and stir midway through.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of beef besides stew meat?
Absolutely! While stew meat works best for tenderness and texture, you can use chuck roast cut into chunks or sirloin tips. Just be mindful of cooking times and adjust as needed to ensure everything is tender.
Is it necessary to use the cream of mushroom soup?
While cream of mushroom soup adds a creamy, velvety texture, you could substitute with cream of celery or cream of chicken soup for a slight variation. Just expect a small change in flavor and texture.
Can I make this recipe on high heat instead of low?
While you can cook it on high, the beef might not get as tender as with the low and slow method. Cooking on low for 7 hours is ideal for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
What can I do if the gravy is too thin?
If your gravy turns out thinner than desired, simply mix a little extra cornstarch with water and stir it into the crockpot. Let it cook for a few more minutes until it thickens to your liking.
Can I add vegetables to the crockpot?
Yes, adding vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, or pearl onions can be a nice touch. Just add them in the last 2-3 hours of cooking to avoid them getting too mushy.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Crockpot Beef Tips with Gravy Recipe is one of those meals that feels like a warm embrace—simple to make, packed with flavor, and endlessly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family or having friends over, it promises comfort and joy in every bite. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.
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Easy Crockpot Beef Tips with Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 hours 5 minutes
- Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Crockpot Beef Tips with Gravy recipe is a hearty, comforting slow-cooked dish featuring tender beef stew meat simmered in a savory mushroom and brown gravy. Perfect for a satisfying family meal, it pairs wonderfully with egg noodles or mashed potatoes.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef stew meat
- 10.75 oz can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 0.88 oz packet brown gravy mix
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 small onion, diced (about 1/3 cup)
- 1–2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 Tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 Tablespoon water (or 2 Tablespoons flour mixed with 1/4 cup water)
Optional
- Egg noodles or mashed potatoes, prepared for serving
Instructions
- Prepare Gravy Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, brown gravy mix, beef broth, diced onion, and minced garlic. Whisk the ingredients together until well combined; it is fine if the mixture is slightly lumpy as it will smooth out during cooking.
- Cook Beef: Place the beef stew meat into a 4-quart crockpot. Pour the prepared gravy mixture over the beef and gently stir to coat evenly. Cover the crockpot and cook on LOW for 7 hours until the beef is tender.
- Thicken Gravy: Once the beef is cooked, remove it from the crockpot using a slotted spoon and set aside. Stir the cornstarch and water mixture into the crockpot to thicken the gravy. Return the beef to the crockpot and continue cooking uncovered for an additional 5 minutes to allow the gravy to thicken.
- Serve: Serve the beef tips and gravy hot over prepared egg noodles or mashed potatoes for a delicious and comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute cornstarch with flour if preferred; mix 2 tablespoons flour with 1/4 cup water before adding to the gravy.
- Use a 4-quart crockpot for best results to ensure even cooking.
- For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the gravy mixture.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
