Easy Crockpot Beef Tips and Gravy

There are few things more comforting than coming home to the smell of tender beef simmering in rich, savory gravy. Crockpot beef tips and gravy is one of those classic dinners that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, even though the slow cooker does most of the work.

The secret is simple: tender beef, flavorful seasonings, onions, and a savory gravy come together during a long, slow cook. The result is fork-tender beef covered in luscious gravy that practically begs to be served over creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or buttery egg noodles.

Best of all, this is an easy slow cooker meal that works just as well for a busy weeknight as it does for a cozy Sunday dinner. Let’s get started.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Crockpot Beef Tips and Gravy

You don’t need a long list of complicated ingredients to make delicious beef tips and gravy. Most of what you need is probably already in your pantry.

• Beef
• Beef Broth
• Onion
• Garlic
• Worcestershire Sauce
• Gravy Ingredients
• Seasonings
• Optional Mushrooms

How to Make Crockpot Beef Tips and Gravy

1. Prepare the Beef

Pat the beef dry with paper towels and season it generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and any additional seasonings you’re using.

If your beef is already cut into bite-sized pieces, you’re ready for the next step.

2. Sear the Beef if Desired

Searing isn’t absolutely necessary, but it can add another layer of flavor.

Heat a little oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. You don’t need to cook it through; you’re simply developing a flavorful browned exterior.

Transfer the beef to the crockpot.

If you’re short on time, you can skip this step and place the seasoned raw beef directly into the slow cooker.

3. Add the Remaining Ingredients

Add the onion, garlic, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and your chosen gravy ingredients.

If you’re adding mushrooms, they can go in at this stage as well.

Give everything a gentle stir so the ingredients are distributed evenly.

4. Cook Until the Beef Is Tender

Cover the slow cooker and cook until the beef is tender.

Cooking times can vary depending on the size of the beef pieces, the specific cut of meat, and the temperature setting of your slow cooker.

The goal isn’t simply to reach a certain number of hours. The beef should become tender enough to cut easily with a fork.

5. Check the Gravy

Near the end of cooking, check the consistency of the gravy.

If it is too thin, you can thicken it with a cornstarch slurry. Mix cornstarch with a small amount of cold water until smooth, then stir the mixture into the hot gravy.

Allow the gravy to cook for several additional minutes so it can thicken.

6. Taste and Serve

Taste the gravy before serving and adjust the salt and pepper if necessary.

Spoon the tender beef and gravy over your favorite side dish and serve immediately.

Easy Variations for Crockpot Beef Tips and Gravy

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize.

Creamy Beef Tips and Gravy

For a creamy variation, use cream of mushroom soup or another creamy ingredient as part of the gravy base.

Beef Tips With Red Wine

A small amount of red wine can add richness and complexity to the gravy. Use it as part of the cooking liquid rather than simply adding a large quantity.

Beef Tips With Vegetables

Add vegetables such as carrots or mushrooms to turn the dish into a more complete slow cooker dinner.

Keep in mind that vegetables can vary in cooking time, so choose additions that can withstand several hours of slow cooking.

What to Serve With Crockpot Beef Tips and Gravy

Once the beef is tender and the gravy is ready, you’ll want something that can soak up all that delicious sauce.

Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are perhaps the classic pairing. The creamy potatoes provide the perfect base for tender beef and rich gravy.

Egg Noodles

Buttered egg noodles are another excellent choice. They’re quick to prepare and work particularly well with savory beef gravy.

Rice

White or brown rice provides a simple alternative to potatoes and noodles. Spoon the beef and gravy directly over the rice for an easy dinner.

Roasted Vegetables

Roasted carrots, broccoli, green beans, or Brussels sprouts can add color and freshness to the meal.

Dinner Rolls

Don’t underestimate the value of good bread. A soft dinner roll or crusty piece of bread is perfect for soaking up leftover gravy.

FAQ’s

Can you put raw beef directly into the crockpot?

Yes. Beef can be cooked directly in a slow cooker without searing it first. Searing is optional and primarily adds additional browned flavor.

Can you make beef tips and gravy without cream of mushroom soup?

Yes. You can make gravy from beef broth and seasonings and thicken it with cornstarch or flour. This gives you more control over the ingredients and flavor.

Can beef tips and gravy be made ahead?

Yes. The dish can be prepared ahead of time and reheated. In fact, the flavors can become even more developed after resting.

Can you freeze leftover beef tips and gravy?

Yes. Beef tips and gravy can be frozen in airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. Divide the leftovers into portions for easier thawing and reheating.