Comfort in a Bowl (Beef Tips and Gravy)

Ah, the simple joys of home cooking! There’s nothing quite like the warmth of a hearty dish that beckons you to the table with open arms. Enter Beef Tips and Gravy—a classic comfort food that’s rich, savory, and utterly satisfying. Imagine tender bites of sirloin nestled in a luscious, velvety gravy that dances with flavors of garlic and herbs. Perfectly paired with fluffy mashed potatoes or silky egg noodles, this dish is sure to evoke a cozy embrace, making it ideal for family dinners or special gatherings. Grab your apron and let’s dive into this culinary delight!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Get ready to fall head over heels for this cozy classic!
– Big, Bold Flavors: The medley of spices and the depth from the gravy create a flavor explosion that keeps you coming back for more.
– One-Pot Wonder: Enjoy the ease of cooking everything in one pot—fewer dishes to wash, more time to savor!
– Family Favorite: Perfect for feeding a crowd, this dish is guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters.
– Comfort Food Perfection: It’s the kind of meal that wraps you in warmth, making any day feel like a special occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our flavor heroes! The ingredients for Beef Tips and Gravy are simple yet powerful, transforming everyday cooking into a delightful experience. Notably, the sirloin tips bring tenderness and richness, while the blend of spices adds that irresistible punch.

– 1 ½ lbs. sirloin tips
– 3 tablespoons flour
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– ½ teaspoon EACH: salt, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, paprika
– ¼ cup dry red apple vinegar (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small yellow onion (diced)
– 3 cloves garlic (minced)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 beef bouillon cube
– 1 ½ teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
– ¼ teaspoon EACH: dried thyme, dried rosemary
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– 3 tablespoons corn starch + 1/4 cup cold water

*Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.*

Variations

The beauty of Beef Tips and Gravy lies in its versatility! Feel free to get creative with these fun variations:
– Go Gluten-Free: Substitute the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend for an equally delicious gravy.
– Add Extra Protein: Toss in some mushrooms or diced carrots for added texture and nutrients.
– Make it Spicier: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the mix for a zesty kick!
– Swap the Dressing: Experiment with different vinegar options for a unique twist—try balsamic or red wine vinegar!
– Cheese it Up: Top the finished dish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for a delightful savory finish.

How to Make Beef Tips and Gravy

Ready to unleash the magic of Beef Tips and Gravy? Follow these easy steps for a mouthwatering masterpiece:

Step 1: Prepare the Seasoning

Combine your beef seasoning mix and measure out all gravy ingredients before diving into the cooking process. This prep work will make your life so much easier!

Step 2: Cube the Meat

Cut the sirloin into 1-inch cubes, ensuring you discard any large pieces of fat. Uniform pieces ensure even cooking and tender bites.

Step 3: Season and Flour the Beef

Sprinkle the beef seasoning mix over the meat and toss to coat evenly. Then, sprinkle flour over the beef and toss again for a perfect coating.

Step 4: Sear the Meat

In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches—don’t overcrowd the pan—and brown on each side for 30-45 seconds. You want that beautiful caramelization! Transfer the meat to a plate and repeat with the remaining beef.

Step 5: Deglaze the Pan

Pour in the ¼ cup of apple vinegar and use a silicone spatula to scrape up all those delicious brown bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. This is where the flavor magic happens!

Step 6: Cook the Onions

Allow the vinegar to bubble gently and reduce by half. Then, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and diced onions, cooking until softened—around 5 minutes of fragrant bliss!

Step 7: Add Garlic

Throw in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, allowing the aroma to fill your kitchen with warmth.

Step 8: Combine Gravy Ingredients

Add all remaining gravy ingredients except the cornstarch mixture. Bring it all to a boil, and get ready for that rich aroma!

Step 9: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water. Gradually stir this into the sauce, adding it slowly while stirring continuously until you reach your desired thickness.

Step 10: Simmer the Beef

Lower the heat to medium-low and add the beef along with any juices from the plate. Cover partially and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, until the beef is cooked through.

Step 11: Finish with Butter

For that luxurious touch, swirl in 1 tablespoon of cold butter right at the end. This technique, known as “Monter au Beurre,” will give your gravy a silky finish.

Step 12: Serve It Up!

Serve your beef tips over a mountain of fluffy mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice—each bite will be a warm hug for the soul!

Pro Tips for Making Beef Tips and Gravy

– Let It Rest: Allow the beef to rest on the plate for a few minutes after searing. This locks in moisture and flavor.
– Don’t Rush the Browning: Browning the meat properly adds depth to your gravy, so take your time with this step!
– Adjust the Thickness: If your gravy is too thick, simply add a splash of beef broth; if it’s too thin, give it a few more minutes to simmer.
– Season Gradually: Taste and adjust seasonings as you go—this ensures the flavors are just right for your palate.

How to Serve Beef Tips and Gravy

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color and an aromatic touch!

Side Dishes

Pair your Beef Tips and Gravy with buttery mashed potatoes, pillowy egg noodles, or fluffy white rice for a comforting meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Get a little fancy! Serve individual portions in small bowls or cups for a rustic touch, or arrange on a platter for a beautiful family-style presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen, making the leftovers even more delicious!

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze your Beef Tips and Gravy! Just allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to bring back that luscious consistency.

FAQs

Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Chicken would work wonderfully, but adjust cooking times accordingly, as chicken cooks faster than beef.

How do I make this gluten-free?
Simply replace the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour alternative, and make sure your beef broth is gluten-free.

Is this recipe spicy?
Not particularly! However, you can easily add more spices or peppers if you prefer some heat.

Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes! You can prep the meat and seasoning mix the night before. Just cook it up when you’re ready to eat!

Final Thoughts

There you have it—your ticket to a cozy night in with Beef Tips and Gravy! This dish is not just a meal; it’s a heartwarming experience that will leave you and your loved ones feeling nourished and satisfied. So tie on that apron, channel your inner chef, and bring this delightful recipe to life. You’ve got this, and I can’t wait to hear how it turns out! Happy cooking!