Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy

Crock Pot beef tips and gravy quickly became my favorite comfort food after a long day of moving into my first apartment. I didn’t own much back then except a slow cooker gifted by my mom and one box of kitchen basics. I tossed in some beef a few pantry staples and hoped for the best. Hours later the aroma was so rich and cozy that I knew I had stumbled on something special. That first bite told me everything I needed to know this dish was a keeper.

What I love about this recipe is how effortless it is. It doesn’t matter if I’m busy with work or planning a weekend of relaxation I can just set it and forget it. The beef gets incredibly tender and the gravy practically begs to be poured over a warm plate of rice or mashed potatoes. It’s simple affordable and deeply satisfying with every bite.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Beef stew meat – Becomes fall-apart tender after slow cooking
• Beef broth – Builds a savory flavorful base for the gravy
• Onion – Adds sweetness and depth to the slow-cooked dish
• Garlic – Brings warmth and aroma to the sauce
• Worcestershire sauce – Adds a bold tangy depth to the gravy
• Soy sauce – Balances the flavor with a salty umami kick
• Cornstarch – Thickens the gravy into a rich and silky finish
• Seasonings (salt, pepper, thyme) – Enhance the flavor and bring it all together

Tools You’ll Need

• Crock pot or slow cooker – Essential for cooking the beef low and slow until tender
• Mixing bowl – Helps blend the broth and seasonings before pouring them in
• Whisk – Great for mixing the cornstarch slurry without clumps
• Tongs or spoon – Makes stirring and serving the beef easier
• Cutting board and knife – If you’re trimming or dicing your own stew meat
• Measuring spoons and cups – For precise seasoning and broth amounts

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Slow Cooker

I begin by placing the beef tips directly into the crock pot and then I sprinkle them with salt pepper and dried thyme.

Step 2: Add Flavor Base

In a bowl I whisk together the beef broth Worcestershire sauce soy sauce minced garlic and chopped onions. I pour this flavorful mix right over the beef in the crock pot.

Step 3: Let It Cook Low and Slow

I set the slow cooker to low and let it cook for about 6 to 8 hours. If I’m in a bit more of a hurry I set it to high for about 4 hours. Either way the beef comes out beautifully tender.

Step 4: Make the Gravy

Once the beef is cooked I whisk together a cornstarch slurry using a little water and cornstarch then I stir it into the crock pot. I let it cook on high for another 20 to 30 minutes until the gravy thickens.

Step 5: Taste and Serve

Before serving I give it a quick taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Then I spoon the rich beef and gravy over a bed of rice or mashed potatoes.

Tips

If you prefer a richer gravy I sometimes swap half of the broth for a can of French onion soup or beef consommé.

For extra savory flavor I occasionally add a splash of red wine before slow cooking.

I always recommend trimming off excess fat from the beef for a cleaner sauce.

Leftovers reheat wonderfully and the flavors deepen overnight.

You can easily double the batch and freeze half for a ready-made meal later on.

Ways to Serve

This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with buttery mashed potatoes fluffy white rice or even egg noodles. I love adding a side of roasted green beans or glazed carrots to round out the meal. When I’m craving something even more comforting I’ll serve it with crusty bread to mop up every drop of that thick rich gravy. It also makes a great meal prep option because it stores and reheats like a dream.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy?

Yes! Let it cool completely and store in airtight containers. It freezes well for up to 3 months.

What’s the best beef cut for Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy?

I usually use stew meat but chuck roast or sirloin tips also work great once slow cooked.

Can I use store-bought gravy instead of making my own?

You can but homemade gravy made with broth and cornstarch gives a fresher flavor and more control over the seasoning.

Why is my gravy too thin or too thick?

If it’s too thin just add a little more cornstarch slurry. If it’s too thick stir in a splash of warm broth or water.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this crock pot beef tips and gravy a try! It’s a dish I keep coming back to because it’s easy filling and so full of rich flavor. Let me know how yours turns out and feel free to save or share this recipe for the next time you’re craving comfort food in a bowl.

Happy Cooking!

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