Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy

Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy is a hearty dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. With tender chunks of beef cooked slowly in a rich mushroom gravy, this recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Its simple preparation allows you to set it and forget it, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or special occasions. Plus, the delightful aroma will fill your kitchen, enticing everyone to come to the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just toss everything into the crockpot and let it work its magic while you enjoy your day.
• Melt-in-Your-Mouth Tenderness: The slow cooking process ensures that the beef becomes incredibly tender and flavorful.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve over rice, mashed potatoes, or even noodles for a satisfying meal that fits any preference.
• Flavor-Packed Gravy: The rich mushroom gravy elevates the dish, adding depth and umami to every bite.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This recipe makes great leftovers, making it ideal for meal prepping for the week ahead.

Tools and Preparation

To create delicious Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These tools make preparation easier and ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Slow cooker
• Large mixing bowl
• Skillet
• Whisk
• Measuring spoons

Why These Tools Matter

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking, ensuring your beef cooks evenly and becomes tender.
• Skillet: Perfect for searing meat before slow cooking, enhancing flavor with a golden crust.
• Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly, ensuring an even consistency in the gravy.

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.

• 2-3 pounds chuck roast (diced into 1-inch pieces)
• 2 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ tablespoon garlic powder
• ½ tablespoon onion powder
• 1 Au Jus gravy packet
• ½ Lipton onion soup mix packet
• 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 Beef

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

Step 2: Sear the Meat

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a hot skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Carefully add the seasoned beef pieces one by one to avoid overcrowding.
3. Sear each side for 2-3 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms (you may need to do this in batches).

Step 3: Mix the Gravy Ingredients

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

Step 4: Combine in Crockpot

1. Transfer the seared meat into your crockpot.
2. Pour the gravy mixture over the meat and stir gently to combine all ingredients.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Step 5: Thicken the Gravy

1. In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of cold water with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch until dissolved.
2. Add this mixture to the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking and stir well.
3. Allow it to sit covered for about 5 minutes until thickened.

Serve your delicious Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy over rice or mashed potatoes, savoring each flavorful bite! Enjoy!

How to Serve Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy

Serving Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy can elevate your meal experience. This tender beef dish pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes, making it versatile for any occasion.

Over Rice

• A fluffy bed of rice absorbs the savory gravy, enhancing every bite.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes create a comforting combination that soaks up the rich sauce.

On Egg Noodles

• Tender egg noodles provide a delightful chew, complementing the beef and gravy perfectly.

In a Sandwich

• Use hearty bread to make a delicious beef sandwich topped with gravy for a satisfying lunch.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve alongside crusty bread to soak up the extra gravy for a rustic touch.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with chopped parsley or chives to add freshness and color to your plate.

How to Perfect Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy

Perfecting your Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out fantastic every time.

• Use Quality Meat: Selecting high-quality chuck roast will result in more tender and flavorful beef tips.
• Sear the Meat: Searing adds depth of flavor and a nice crust, enhancing the overall taste before slow cooking.
• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak spices and seasonings according to your taste preferences for a personalized flavor profile.
• Thicken the Gravy: If you prefer thicker gravy, adjust the cornstarch mixture until you reach your desired consistency.
• Cook Low and Slow: For maximum tenderness, opt for cooking on low heat. It allows flavors to meld beautifully over time.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the cooked beef tips to rest for a few minutes before serving helps retain moisture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy

To complement your Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy, consider these delectable side dishes that enhance your meal’s overall appeal.

1. Steamed Vegetables: A medley of colorful vegetables provides nutrition and balances the richness of the beef.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts add a nutty flavor that pairs well with the savory gravy.
3. Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the flavorful sauce, adding an aromatic touch.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast in texture and taste, making it an excellent counterpoint.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the hearty flavors of beef tips while adding sweetness to each bite.
6. Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, serve cauliflower rice as a light base that absorbs all the delicious gravy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the Searing: Not searing the meat can lead to less flavor. Always sear each piece of meat until golden brown before adding it to the crockpot.
• Overcrowding the Skillet: Adding too much meat at once can steam rather than brown it. Cook in batches to ensure proper searing.
• Ignoring Seasonings: Forgetting to season the meat properly can result in bland flavors. Use a good amount of salt and spices to enhance taste.
• Not Using Enough Liquid: Insufficient liquid will cause the dish to dry out. Make sure there’s enough broth or soup in the crockpot.
• Rushing the Cooking Time: Cooking on high may not yield as tender beef tips. Opt for low and slow cooking for 6-8 hours for best results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, heat for about 20-30 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best cut of beef for Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy?

Chuck roast is ideal for this recipe as it becomes very tender when slow-cooked.

Can I make this recipe without mushrooms?

Yes, you can skip the mushroom soup if you prefer, or substitute with cream of chicken soup for a different flavor.

How can I customize my Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy?

You can add vegetables like carrots or potatoes for added nutrition and flavor.

What should I serve with Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy?

This dish pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or egg noodles.

Conclusion

Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences, making it an ideal recipe any day of the week. Give it a try and enjoy delicious beef tips in rich gravy!

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