Why You’ll Love This Spectacular Slow Cooker Recipe
Effortless. Minimal prep and the slow cooker does the rest. Incredibly Flavorful. The beef tips are slow-cooked to perfection, soaking up the savory gravy for a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Perfect for Meal Prep. Make a big batch, and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
With just a few simple ingredients and a trusty slow cooker, you can create a meal that’s both hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
Are Beef Tips And Stew Meat The Same Thing?
No, beef tips and stew meat are not the same thing, although they can sometimes be used interchangeably in recipes. Here’s a breakdown of the differences:
Tenderness- Beef tips are generally more tender than stew meat because they come from better cuts. Cooking Method- Beef tips can be cooked quickly and still remain tender, while stew meat usually requires slow, moist cooking methods to become tender. Usage- While beef tips can be used in recipes requiring quick cooking, stew meat is always better suited for slow-cooked dishes.
Do Beef Tips Get More Tender The Longer They Cook?
When beef tips are cooked slowly at a low temperature, the connective tissues and collagen break down over time, making the meat more tender. This is why dishes like beef tips and gravy, or beef stews, are often cooked for several hours.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Beef Tips- The star of the dish, providing rich, beefy flavor and tender texture. Onion- Adds sweetness and depth to the gravy. Garlic- Infuses the dish with savory, aromatic flavor. Beef Broth- Forms the base of the gravy, adding richness. Worcestershire Sauce– Adds a savory umami kick to the gravy. Soy Sauce- Enhances the savory notes and deepens the flavor. Thyme- A touch of herbal warmth to balance the flavors. Bay Leaf- Adds subtle depth to the dish. Cornstarch- Thickens the gravy to a perfect consistency.
How To Make Beef Tips And Gravy
Tips And Tricks
Creating the perfect Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy involves more than just following a recipe. Here are some helpful tips and tricks to ensure your dish turns out rich, tender, and full of flavor every time:
Sear the Beef Tips First. Searing the beef tips before adding them to the slow cooker helps lock in flavor and adds a caramelized depth to the dish. The Maillard reaction (browning of the meat) creates a more complex and savory flavor. Use Low Heat for Maximum Tenderness. If you have the time, cook on low for 6-8 hours rather than on high. This slow cooking process is key to achieving the best texture. Don’t Skip the Cornstarch Slurry. The cornstarch slurry is essential for thickening the gravy to a luscious consistency.
Variations
This classic dish can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs:
Mushroom Beef Tips- Add sliced mushrooms to the slow cooker for a rich, earthy twist. Red Wine Gravy- Replace half of the beef broth with red wine for a more robust, sophisticated flavor. Herb-Infused Beef Tips- Add rosemary and parsley for a fragrant, herbaceous variation.
What To Eat With Beef Tips And Gravy
Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy pair wonderfully with various sides. Here are some great options:
Mashed Potatoes- Creamy, buttery potatoes are the perfect vessel for all that savory gravy. Steamed Rice- Fluffy white rice soaks up the flavors beautifully. Roasted Vegetables- A colorful side of roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans adds a nice contrast to the rich beef.
How Long Do They Last?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if the gravy thickens too much.
Can You Freeze Them?
Absolutely! Freeze the cooked and cooled beef tips and gravy in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove before serving.
More Of Our Best Beef Recipes
Instant Pot Beef Curry Beef Barbacoa Italian Beef Sandwich Beef Bulgogi Spicy Thai Basil Beef Beef Rendang Beef Chuck Roast
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