If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal that practically cooks itself, you’re in for a treat. This Easy Crockpot Beef Tips with Gravy recipe is rich, savory, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Inspired by the warm, storytelling tone of Mark Twain, this dish brings together the charm of old-fashioned home cooking with the convenience of modern-day slow cookers.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping for a cozy night in, this recipe is a no-fuss winner. Just toss the ingredients into your crockpot, go about your day, and come home to a dinner that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s something magical about coming home to the mouthwatering aroma of slow-cooked beef tips simmering in thick, flavorful gravy. This dish is everything comfort food should be—easy to make, full of flavor, and guaranteed to leave you and your family satisfied.
Plus, it’s versatile. Serve it over creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy white rice, or buttery egg noodles—whatever your heart (or pantry) desires. The leftovers are just as good the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping or next-day lunches.
Easy Crockpot Beef Tips with Gravy Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this homestyle classic:
- 2 pounds beef stew meat (cut into bite-sized chunks)
- 1 cup beef broth (low sodium if preferred)
- 1 can (10.75 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 packet (0.8 to 1 ounce) brown gravy mix
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water (for thickening)
Pro Tip: If you want an extra-rich flavor, sear the beef in a hot skillet before adding it to the slow cooker. It’s not required, but it adds a lovely caramelized depth.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Gravy Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, gravy mix, minced garlic, and diced onion. Don’t stress if it’s a little lumpy—those will dissolve into the sauce as it cooks low and slow.
Step 2: Layer and Stir
Place your beef tips into the bottom of a 4-quart crockpot. Pour the gravy mixture over the top and give everything a good stir to make sure the meat is well-coated.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the crockpot with the lid and set it to low for about 7 hours. This gives the beef plenty of time to tenderize and absorb all the rich flavors of the gravy.
Step 4: Thicken the Gravy
Once the beef is fall-apart tender, remove it with a slotted spoon and set aside. Stir in your cornstarch slurry to the gravy in the crockpot. Let it cook for about 5 minutes more, or until thickened to your liking.
Then, return the beef to the pot, give it a gentle stir, and you’re ready to serve.
Best Sides for Easy Crockpot Beef Tips with Gravy
Beef tips and gravy are versatile enough to pair with just about anything, but here are a few classic ideas to round out your plate:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery potatoes are the perfect base to soak up all that savory gravy.
- White Rice: A fluffy bed of rice makes for a comforting, satisfying meal.
- Egg Noodles: The wide, soft texture of egg noodles is a match made in comfort food heaven.
- Buttered Corn: For a bit of sweetness to balance the rich beef flavor.
- Roasted Green Beans or Carrots: Add a fresh and colorful touch to your plate.
Crockpot Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: Make sure your beef is evenly coated in the gravy and has room to simmer.
- Low and Slow is Best: Cooking on low heat allows the beef to become ultra-tender.
- Stir Gently: Once everything’s cooking, resist the urge to stir often—just let the crockpot do its job.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the ingredients the night before and refrigerate. In the morning, just pop it in the crockpot and go!
Variations and Add-ins
Want to make this dish your own? Here are some easy ways to put a personal spin on this comfort classic:
- Mushrooms: Add fresh or canned mushrooms for an earthy twist.
- Red Wine: Replace half the beef broth with red wine for a deeper flavor.
- Herbs: Toss in some dried thyme, rosemary, or a bay leaf for a hint of herbal goodness.
- Creamier Gravy: Add a splash of heavy cream toward the end for a richer, velvety finish.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper for a little kick.
How to Store and Reheat
This recipe stores beautifully, making it a go-to for leftovers.
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before freezing.
- To Reheat: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the gravy is too thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes! Chuck roast, sirloin tips, or even round steak work well. Just make sure it’s a cut that benefits from slow cooking.
Do I need to brown the beef first?
It’s optional. Browning adds extra flavor but isn’t necessary for a delicious result. This recipe is designed to be as easy as possible.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Use a larger crockpot (at least 6-quart) and adjust cooking time if needed. Keep an eye on the texture and thickness of the gravy.
Is there a low-sodium version?
Yes. Use low-sodium broth and gravy mix, and opt for reduced-sodium soup if you’re watching your salt intake.
Easy Crockpot Beef Tips with Gravy is the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day. It’s the perfect combination of simple ingredients, effortless preparation, and classic American comfort. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly weeknight or prepping for Sunday supper, it’s sure to earn a permanent spot on your meal rotation.
Let the crockpot do the heavy lifting, and you can sit back and savor every tender bite.
