Best Ever Beef Tips & Gravy (Easy)

Tender beef cooked in a deliciously rich brown gravy, served over rice, mashed potatoes, or egg noodles – this is the Best Ever Beef Tips & Gravy (Easy) recipe that you will turn to for family dinners. Perfect for weeknight meals or cozy weekends, this dish combines simplicity and flavor, making it a favorite among all ages. The versatility of this recipe allows you to adjust ingredients based on your preference, ensuring a satisfying meal every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have a hearty meal on the table without hours of cooking.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of Worcestershire sauce and soy sauce creates a savory gravy that enhances the tender beef tips.
• Versatile Serving Options: Whether you prefer rice, mashed potatoes, or egg noodles, this dish pairs perfectly with any side.
• Family-Friendly: This recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters with its comforting flavors and textures.
• Easy Adaptations: Feel free to add vegetables or experiment with different types of meat to customize the dish.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Best Ever Beef Tips & Gravy (Easy), having the right tools can streamline your cooking process and enhance your experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Measuring cups
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for browning meat evenly and creating a rich base for the gravy.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements for consistent results every time.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Helps in stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware’s surface.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for combining ingredients like gravy mix and water before adding it to the skillet.

Ingredients

For the Best Ever Beef Tips & Gravy (Easy), gather the following ingredients:

• 2 pounds beef stew meat, cubed
• 3 Tablespoons vegetable oil (or canola)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cups water
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (you can use reduced sodium)
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce (you can use reduced sodium)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (or use fresh garlic)
• 1 teaspoon salt (omit to reduce sodium)
• 1 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
• 1 packet brown gravy mix, 0.75-ounce packet (you can use reduced sodium)
• 1 cup water
• Egg Noodles, Rice, or Mashed Potatoes (to serve with beef tips)
• 1/4 – 1/3 cup red wine
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (fresh or canned)

How to Make Best Ever Beef Tips & Gravy (Easy)

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by measuring out all your ingredients. Chop the onion and cube the beef stew meat into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Sauté Onions

In a large skillet over medium-high heat:
1. Heat 3 tablespoons of oil until shimmering.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Next:
1. Add cubed beef to the skillet with oil and onions.
2. Brown the meat on all sides; this should take about one minute per side.

Step 4: Create the Gravy Base

After browning:
1. Pour in 2 cups of water along with Worcestershire sauce and soy sauce.
2. Sprinkle in garlic powder, salt, and pepper; stir well to combine.

Step 5: Simmer

Bring everything to a boil:
1. Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 1½ to 2 hours until beef is tender.

Step 6: Thicken the Gravy

In a separate mixing bowl:
1. Combine brown gravy mix with 1 cup water; stir until smooth.
2. Pour this mixture over the beef in the skillet; stir well.

Step 7: Final Cooking Steps

Increase heat slightly:
1. Bring to a boil while continuously stirring until sauce thickens.

Step 8: Serve

Serve your delicious beef tips over mashed potatoes, white rice, or egg noodles. Pair with your favorite steamed vegetable and a side salad for a complete meal!

How to Serve Best Ever Beef Tips & Gravy (Easy)

Best Ever Beef Tips & Gravy is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with various sides. Whether you prefer something classic or a bit different, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Over Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy and smooth, mashed potatoes serve as the perfect base for the rich gravy, soaking up all the flavors.

With Egg Noodles

• Egg noodles add a delightful texture and are excellent at capturing the tender beef and savory gravy in each bite.

On Rice

• Fluffy white rice is another great option that complements the beef tips, providing a neutral backdrop for the robust gravy.

Accompanied by Steamed Vegetables

• Bright, steamed vegetables such as broccoli or green beans add a fresh contrast to the hearty dish, making it more balanced.

In a Bread Bowl

• For a fun twist, serve the beef tips in a hollowed-out bread bowl. The bread absorbs the gravy and makes for an enjoyable meal.

With a Side Salad

• A crisp side salad brings freshness to your plate, balancing out the richness of the beef tips and gravy.

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How to Perfect Best Ever Beef Tips & Gravy (Easy)

To ensure that your Best Ever Beef Tips & Gravy turns out perfectly every time, keep these helpful tips in mind.

• Choose the right cut of meat: Opt for chuck roast or stew meat for tenderness after long cooking.
• Sear well: Browning the beef before simmering adds depth of flavor to your dish.
• Control seasonings: Adjust salt according to taste or dietary needs, especially if using soy sauce.
• Let it simmer: Allowing ample time for simmering ensures that the meat becomes tender and infused with flavor.
• Thicken properly: Make sure to stir well when adding gravy mix; this prevents lumps and promotes even thickness.
• Serve immediately: While it’s tempting to let it sit, serving hot ensures maximum flavor and enjoyment.

Best Side Dishes for Best Ever Beef Tips & Gravy (Easy)

Pairing side dishes with your Best Ever Beef Tips & Gravy can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delicious options:

1. Garlic Bread – A crunchy garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover gravy.
2. Roasted Potatoes – Crispy roasted potatoes add texture and soak up flavors nicely.
3. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch that cuts through the richness of the beef.
4. Green Beans Almondine – Sautéed green beans with almonds offer a nutty flavor profile that complements the dish.
5. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn balances out savory flavors beautifully while being easy to prepare.
6. Cauliflower Mash – For a low-carb alternative, cauliflower mash mimics traditional mashed potatoes but with fewer calories.
7. Baked Zucchini – Lightly seasoned baked zucchini rounds are healthy and add color to your plate.
8. Crispy Brussels Sprouts – Roasted Brussels sprouts provide a unique twist with their slightly bitter flavor contrasting nicely with rich gravy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Best Ever Beef Tips & Gravy (Easy) can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch for.

• Skipping the Browning Step: Failing to brown the beef properly results in less flavor. Always take a few minutes to brown your meat on all sides before simmering.
• Overcooking the Gravy Mixture: If you cook the gravy too long after adding the mix, it can become overly thick or even burn. Stir frequently and keep an eye on the consistency.
• Not Adjusting Seasonings: Every palate is different. Taste your dish before serving and adjust seasonings like salt or pepper according to your preference.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold water or ingredients can slow down cooking time. Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
• Ignoring Cooking Time: Each stove cooks differently, so don’t rush the simmering process. Allow enough time for tender beef and rich flavors to develop.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover beef tips in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Best Ever Beef Tips & Gravy (Easy)

• Place cooled beef tips in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best flavor.

Reheating Best Ever Beef Tips & Gravy (Easy)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place beef tips in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Best Ever Beef Tips & Gravy (Easy).

Can I use different cuts of beef for this recipe?

You can use various cuts like chuck roast or brisket. Just ensure they’re well-trimmed and cubed for even cooking.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce with gluten-free alternatives available at most grocery stores.

What goes good with Best Ever Beef Tips & Gravy (Easy)?

This dish pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles, along with a side of steamed vegetables or salad.

Can I make Best Ever Beef Tips & Gravy (Easy) in a slow cooker?

Yes! Simply brown the beef and onions first, then transfer everything into a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Final Thoughts

The Best Ever Beef Tips & Gravy (Easy) recipe offers comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite sides or ingredients. Try it today and enjoy a hearty meal that everyone will love!