Welcome to the ultimate guide for crafting the most succulent and flavorful Beef Tips and Gravy. This beloved classic, often cherished as the pinnacle of comfort food, features tender pieces of beef, whether sirloin or hearty stew meat, generously coated in a rich, homemade brown gravy. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, this dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. Its versatility allows it to be paired beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, wholesome cornbread, or any of your cherished side dishes, making it a go-to recipe for various occasions. Get ready to transform simple ingredients into an extraordinary culinary masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds.

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What Are Beef Tips: Choosing the Best Cuts for Tender Results
The foundation of exceptional beef tips and gravy lies in selecting the right cut of beef. The goal is to choose meat that promises both rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness after slow cooking. While many recipes simply call for “beef tips” or “stew meat,” understanding the different cuts available can elevate your dish from good to truly extraordinary. Here are some of the most recommended cuts and why they work so well:
- Beef Sirloin: A top contender for beef tips, sirloin offers a fantastic balance of tenderness and robust beefy flavor without being overly fatty. Both top sirloin and bottom sirloin can be used. When cut into uniform cubes, sirloin tips cook evenly and absorb the rich flavors of the gravy beautifully.
- Beef Tenderloin: For an undeniably luxurious and incredibly tender experience, beef tenderloin is an excellent, albeit pricier, choice. Known for its buttery texture, tenderloin tips will yield a dish that is exceptionally succulent and refined, perfect for special occasions.
- Beef Chuck: Often labeled as chuck roast or chuck steak, this cut is a more economical option that truly shines with slow cooking. Chuck meat is rich in collagen, which breaks down into gelatin during extended simmering, resulting in wonderfully tender, pull-apart beef tips and a deeply flavorful gravy. It’s a workhorse cut that delivers impressive results.
- Beef Round: Including cuts like round steak or round roast, beef round is a leaner and more budget-friendly option. While naturally less tender than sirloin or tenderloin, when diced into smaller pieces and simmered gently in liquid, it can still achieve a pleasing tenderness and absorb the gravy’s flavors effectively. Its leanness makes it a good choice for those monitoring fat intake.
- Beef Ribeye: If you’re seeking a dish with intense flavor and ample marbling, ribeye steak can be cut into tips. The generous fat content within ribeye ensures a juicy and incredibly flavorful outcome, adding a layer of richness that’s hard to beat. This option brings a gourmet touch to your beef tips.
You might also find packages simply labeled “stew meat” at the grocery store. These often contain a mix of cuts, typically from the chuck or round, pre-cut for convenience. While convenient, remember that stew meat, and even some beef tips, aren’t always the most inherently tender cuts. The magic of this recipe lies in the “low and slow” cooking method, which tenderizes these cuts beautifully. If you’re craving exceptionally tender beef that requires less simmering, consider exploring recipes like my Southern Soul Food Oxtail or Garlic Butter Prime Rib.
Regardless of the cut you choose, always ensure the meat is trimmed of excess fat and gristle and cut into uniform, bite-sized pieces (about 1 to 1.5 inches). This consistency is crucial for even cooking and optimal tenderness.

How to Select Quality Beef Tips
Choosing high-quality beef is paramount for a delicious batch of beef tips and gravy. A careful selection process at the grocery store or butcher shop can significantly impact the flavor, texture, and overall success of your dish. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to shop for the best beef tips:
- Understand the Grade of Beef: In the United States, beef is graded by the USDA, which indicates its quality, tenderness, and marbling.
- Prime: The highest grade, with abundant marbling, ensuring exceptional tenderness and juiciness. Ideal for gourmet results.
- Choice: A high-quality grade found in most grocery stores, with good marbling that ensures a tender and flavorful dish. This is often an excellent balance of quality and cost for beef tips.
- Select: A leaner grade with less marbling. While still palatable, it requires more careful cooking methods (like low and slow simmering) to achieve tenderness. It’s a more budget-friendly option.
Choose the grade that fits your budget and desired tenderness.
- Inspect the Meat Visually: Always examine the beef tips for signs of freshness. Look for meat that is bright, vibrant red in color. Avoid any packages where the meat appears brown, gray, or discolored, as these are indicators of oxidation or spoilage. The fat should be creamy white, not yellow or brittle.
- Check for Marbling: Marbling refers to the small streaks of fat distributed within the lean muscle. This intramuscular fat is crucial because it melts during cooking, infusing the meat with moisture and flavor, resulting in a juicier, more tender, and more palatable experience. Look for fine, even streaks of marbling throughout the beef.
- Examine the Packaging: Before purchasing, thoroughly check the packaging for any leaks, tears, or damage. Ensure the vacuum seal is intact, as compromised packaging can expose the meat to air and bacteria, affecting its freshness and safety. Avoid packages with excessive liquid accumulation.
- Source from a Reputable Butcher: If possible, purchase your beef tips from a local butcher. They can often provide insights into the cuts, source, and freshness, and can even cut the meat to your specifications, ensuring you get the best quality for your recipe.

Mastering Beef Tips and Gravy: A Step-by-Step Guide
Crafting this deeply satisfying Beef Tips and Gravy dish is simpler than you might think. By following these detailed steps, you’ll achieve tender beef and a rich, velvety gravy every time. The full recipe card with exact measurements and additional notes is available at the bottom of this post.
- Prepare Your Cookware: Begin by placing a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven or a sturdy soup pot on your stove over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and allow it to shimmer, indicating it’s ready for searing.
- Season and Sear the Beef: Pat your beef tips dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Add the seasoned beef (with Creole seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper) to the hot pot. Sear the meat in batches if necessary, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. This creates a beautiful browned crust, locking in the meat’s juices and building a foundational layer of flavor for the gravy. Cook each side for just a few minutes until well-browned. Once seared, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside on a plate.
- Sauté Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the diced onions to the pot, scraping up any browned bits (fond) from the bottom – these bits are packed with flavor! Sauté the onions until they become translucent and softened, about 3-5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Create the Roux: Add the unsalted butter to the pot with the onions and garlic. Stir until the butter completely melts. Gradually sprinkle in the all-purpose flour, adding it in stages while continuously stirring with a whisk or wooden spoon. This consistent stirring is key to preventing lumps and creating a smooth roux. Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast and develop a nutty aroma. This is the thickening agent for your rich gravy.
- Build the Gravy: Slowly pour in 1 cup of beef broth and the Worcestershire sauce, whisking constantly to incorporate the roux smoothly. Continue to whisk as the gravy begins to thicken. If the gravy becomes too thick, gradually add more broth (up to an additional cup), until it reaches your desired consistency – a luscious, pourable gravy. Taste and adjust seasonings with salt and pepper as needed. This step is crucial for a perfectly balanced flavor profile.
- Simmer to Perfection: Return the seared beef tips, along with any accumulated juices, back into the pot with the gravy. Ensure the beef is mostly submerged. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer gently for 1 to 2 hours, or until the beef tips are wonderfully fork-tender. The longer, slower cook time allows tougher cuts to break down and become incredibly succulent.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the beef is tender and the gravy is rich, serve your Beef Tips and Gravy hot, generously drizzled over your favorite sides.


Secrets to Preventing Tough, Overcooked Meat
Achieving tender, succulent beef tips is key to this dish’s success. No one wants rubbery or dry meat. Here are essential techniques to ensure your beef tips are perfectly tender every time:
- Uniformly Cut the Meat: Before cooking, slice your beef into consistent, bite-sized pieces, ideally 1 to 1.5 inches. Uniformity is vital because it ensures all pieces cook at roughly the same rate. This prevents smaller pieces from overcooking and becoming tough while larger pieces are still undercooked.
- Master the Searing Process: Searing is a non-negotiable step. Before introducing the beef to the gravy, sear it thoroughly in a hot pan with a little olive oil. This high-heat, quick cook creates a flavorful, caramelized crust (the Maillard reaction) and helps lock in the natural juices. Avoid overcrowding the pan; work in batches if necessary to maintain high heat and achieve proper browning.
- Embrace the “Low and Slow” Cooking Method: This is arguably the most critical tip for tender beef tips, especially when using cuts like chuck or round. Cook the beef at a gentle simmer over low heat for an extended period. Low and slow cooking allows the connective tissues and collagen in tougher cuts to gradually break down into gelatin, transforming tough fibers into wonderfully tender, succulent meat. Rushing this step will result in chewy beef.
- Ensure Adequate Moist Heat: The beef tips must be adequately submerged in the gravy or braising liquid throughout the simmering process. Moist heat is essential for tenderization. If the liquid level drops too low, the meat can dry out or cook unevenly. Add more broth if needed to keep the beef covered.
- Minimize Overstirring: While occasional stirring is necessary to prevent sticking and ensure even heat distribution, resist the urge to stir the beef tips too frequently. Excessive stirring can cause the meat to break apart or become stringy and tough. Stir only when required, gently turning the pieces to prevent them from adhering to the bottom of the pot.
- Acidity for Tenderization: Ingredients like Worcestershire sauce (which contains vinegar) or a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar can contribute to tenderizing the meat. The acids help break down tough fibers, especially during slow cooking.

Achieving the Perfect Gravy Consistency
The luscious, rich gravy is just as important as the tender beef tips themselves. In this recipe, all-purpose flour is your go-to thickener, creating a classic, smooth brown gravy. The key is to create a roux by whisking the flour into melted butter and then slowly incorporating the broth. This method ensures a lump-free and perfectly thickened gravy.
While cornstarch is another common thickener, I find that flour provides a more traditional, robust body and flavor to this particular dish. Cornstarch can yield a slightly glossier, thinner gravy that might not achieve the hearty, opaque consistency desired for beef tips. If your gravy becomes too thick during simmering, don’t worry! Simply whisk in a small amount of additional beef broth or stock until it reaches your preferred pourable consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, you can create a slurry with a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch mixed with a little cold water, then whisk it into the simmering gravy until thickened.
Optimal Cook Time for Fork-Tender Beef Tips
The total cooking time for your beef tips and gravy is a flexible element that ultimately depends on the specific cut of beef used and your desired level of tenderness. While the beef will be safe to eat relatively quickly after searing and a short simmer, achieving that sought-after “fork-tender” texture requires patience and a commitment to the low and slow method.
For beef tips or stew meat, which often come from tougher cuts rich in connective tissue, a gentle simmer is crucial. You could theoretically simmer the dish for as little as 30 minutes after preparing the gravy, and it would still be a delicious meal. However, for truly optimal texture, where the meat practically melts in your mouth, you’ll want to extend that simmering period. Aim for 1 to 2 hours of gentle simmering, or even a little longer, until the beef yields easily when pierced with a fork. This extended cook time allows the collagen to break down fully, transforming the meat into incredibly tender, flavorful bites. Regularly check the tenderness after the first hour, and adjust cooking time as needed.
The Magic of Worcestershire Sauce in Beef Dishes
Worcestershire sauce is a secret weapon in many beef dishes, and for good reason. This fermented condiment, with its complex blend of savory, sweet, and tangy notes, brings an unparalleled depth of flavor to beef tips and gravy. Its unique profile includes ingredients like vinegar, molasses, anchovies, tamarind extract, and spices, all contributing to a rich umami punch.
Beyond its distinctive taste, Worcestershire sauce also plays a practical role in tenderizing the meat. The acidic components, primarily vinegar, help to break down tough protein fibers during the long simmering process. This means a more tender beef tip and a richer, more nuanced gravy. It also enhances the overall beefiness of the dish, preventing the flavors from falling flat.
While you can certainly omit it if you prefer or have dietary restrictions, be aware that you might miss out on these wonderful benefits. If you need a substitute, soy sauce can offer a similar savory umami depth, while balsamic vinegar can provide acidity and a touch of sweetness. Experiment to find what works best for your palate, but for a classic Beef Tips and Gravy, Worcestershire sauce is highly recommended.

Choosing the Right Cookware for Beef Tips and Gravy
The right cookware can make a significant difference in the outcome of your beef tips and gravy. For a dish that relies on searing and long, slow simmering, heavy-bottomed pots that retain and distribute heat evenly are ideal. Here are the top recommendations:
- Dutch Oven: This is arguably the champion for dishes like beef tips and gravy. Dutch ovens are heavy, thick-walled pots, often made of cast iron (enameled or unenameled), designed for superior heat retention and even heat distribution. Their tight-fitting lids are crucial for trapping moisture and flavors, creating a moist environment that tenderizes the beef and develops rich, deep flavors in the gravy. They also transition beautifully from stovetop searing to oven braising if desired.
- Cast Iron Pot: Similar in benefits to a Dutch oven (and often, a Dutch oven *is* a type of cast iron pot), a dedicated cast iron pot excels at searing meat at high temperatures and then maintaining a consistent low simmer. The excellent heat retention prevents hot spots, ensuring the beef cooks evenly and tenderly. Its robust nature makes it a durable and reliable choice for years of comforting meals.
- Braising Pan (Braiser): A braising pan is a wide, shallow pot, typically with a tight-fitting lid. It’s specifically engineered for braising, which involves searing meat and then cooking it slowly in a small amount of liquid. The wide surface area allows for maximum contact between the beef and the heat, facilitating excellent browning before simmering. The shallower sides mean the liquid doesn’t need to be as deep, yet the tight lid still captures all the steam and flavors necessary for tender results.
While other pots can work in a pinch, these options are highly recommended for their ability to conduct heat efficiently, retain it consistently, and create the ideal environment for transforming tougher cuts of beef into fork-tender perfection.
Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy Method
For those busy days when you need a hands-off approach, your slow cooker (Crockpot) can be an excellent tool for preparing incredibly tender beef tips. While the method varies slightly from the stovetop version, the result is equally delicious and comforting.
Here’s how to adapt this recipe for a slow cooker:
- Sear the Beef (Recommended): For maximum flavor, it’s highly recommended to sear the beef tips in a skillet on the stovetop before adding them to the slow cooker. Season the beef as instructed in the main recipe and sear in a little olive oil until browned on all sides. This step is crucial for developing a rich, caramelized flavor that you won’t get from just dumping the raw meat into the slow cooker.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same skillet used for searing the beef, quickly sauté the diced onions and minced garlic until softened and fragrant. This also adds another layer of flavor.
- Combine in Slow Cooker: Transfer the seared beef, sautéed onions, and garlic to your slow cooker.
- Add Liquid: Instead of making a full gravy initially, you’ll cook the beef in broth. Add enough beef broth (or chicken/vegetable broth) to completely cover the meat. You can also add the Worcestershire sauce at this stage for added depth.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover the slow cooker and cook on the LOW setting for 7-8 hours, or until the beef is incredibly tender and easily pulled apart with a fork.
- Make the Gravy (Post-Cooking): Once the beef is cooked and tender, carefully remove the beef tips from the slow cooker and set them aside. The liquid remaining in the slow cooker is your flavorful beef drippings! You can then use these drippings to create your gravy. Follow the instructions in my Turkey Gravy From Drippings recipe as a guide to transform these savory juices into a rich, thick gravy. Simply substitute the turkey drippings with your beef drippings.
- Combine and Serve: Return the tender beef tips to the finished gravy in the slow cooker, stir to coat, and serve hot.

Storage Tips for Leftovers
Beef Tips and Gravy is a fantastic dish for meal prepping, as it often tastes even better the next day when the flavors have had more time to meld. To store leftovers safely and effectively:
Allow the dish to cool completely to room temperature (within 1-2 hours) before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate promptly, and your beef tips and gravy will remain fresh and delicious for 3-4 days. Ensure the container is tightly sealed to prevent air exposure, which can lead to spoilage or dry out the meat.
How to Reheat Beef Tips and Gravy
Reheating beef tips and gravy without drying out the meat or altering the gravy’s texture is simple with the right approach.
- Microwave: For a quick reheat, place a single serving in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
- Stovetop: Transfer the desired amount to a saucepan or skillet. Add a splash of beef broth or water to thin the gravy if it’s too thick. Heat over low to medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until hot. This method is excellent for maintaining gravy consistency.
- Oven or Air Fryer: If reheating a larger portion or want a slight crisp to any exposed meat, you can use an oven or air fryer. Place the beef tips and gravy in an oven-safe dish (or air fryer basket for air fryer). Cover with foil (if using oven) to prevent drying. Reheat at 250 degrees Fahrenheit (120°C) until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the beef to become dry and tough.
Always ensure the beef is reheated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
Freezing Beef Tips and Gravy for Later
Beef tips and gravy freeze exceptionally well, making it an ideal candidate for future busy weeknights or unexpected cravings for comfort food.
To freeze, allow the cooked dish to cool completely. Transfer it to freezer-safe airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, ensuring as much air as possible is removed to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for 2-3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat using one of the methods described above, adding a bit more broth if the gravy has thickened too much during thawing and reheating.

Perfect Pairings for Your Beef Tips and Gravy
Beef Tips and Gravy is a versatile dish that complements a wide array of side dishes. Here are some delectable options to complete your comforting meal:
- Southern Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, rich, and perfect for soaking up every last drop of that savory gravy.
- Southern Cornbread: A classic choice that adds a touch of sweetness and texture, ideal for scooping up the tender beef.
- Green Bean Casserole with Bacon: A flavorful and hearty vegetable side that brings a smoky crunch.
- Slow Cooker Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes: Indulgent and cheesy potatoes that are easy to prepare alongside your main dish.
- Au Gratin Potatoes with Bacon and Cheese: A decadent potato dish featuring layers of creamy cheese and crispy bacon.
- Slow Cooker Crockpot Mac and Cheese: The ultimate comfort food pairing, creamy mac and cheese is always a hit.
- Southern Cornbread Dressing with Chicken: A soulful and savory option, especially wonderful for holiday-inspired meals.
- Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey: A traditional Southern side dish offering a depth of flavor and tender texture.
Explore More Delicious Beef Recipes
If you’ve enjoyed this Beef Tips and Gravy recipe, you’ll love exploring these other hearty beef creations:
- Braised Beef Chuck Short Ribs: Fall-off-the-bone tender short ribs, slow-cooked to perfection.
- Eye of Round Roast Beef: A flavorful and lean roast, ideal for slicing thin and serving with pan juices.
- Rotel Dip with Beef: A crowd-pleasing, cheesy dip with seasoned ground beef, perfect for appetizers.

Beef Tips and Gravy
Brandi Crawford
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Equipment Needed
- Cast Iron Dutch Oven
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 ½ – 2 pounds beef tips/stew meat
- ½ tablespoon Creole Seasoning You can substitute using your favorite beef rub if preferred.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup diced onions I used white onions
- 2-3 garlic cloves Minced.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 ½-2 cups broth Any broth: beef, chicken, vegetable.
Recipe Instructions
- Place a Dutch oven or soup pot on the stove at medium-high heat. Add the olive oil.1 teaspoon olive oil
- Add the sliced beef along with the Creole seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt and pepper. Season both sides of the meat thoroughly.1 ½ – 2 pounds beef tips/stew meat, ½ tablespoon Creole Seasoning, ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, salt and pepper to taste
- Sear both sides of the meat until nicely browned. This searing step is crucial for developing deep flavor and locking in juices. You only need to cook the meat for a few minutes per side. Once seared, remove it from the pot and set it aside on a clean plate.
- Adjust the heat on the stove to medium. Add the diced onions and cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become translucent and fragrant. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until aromatic, ensuring it doesn’t burn.½ cup diced onions, 2-3 garlic cloves
- Add the unsalted butter to the pot. Stir until it completely melts and combines with the onions and garlic.2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Once the butter has melted, gradually sprinkle in the all-purpose flour. Whisk continuously as you add it to prevent any lumps from forming. Continue cooking and stirring for 1-2 minutes to create a golden-brown roux, which will serve as the base for your thick, flavorful gravy.¼ cup all-purpose flour
- Slowly pour in 1 cup of broth and the Worcestershire sauce, whisking vigorously to combine and ensure a smooth gravy. Continue to stir until the gravy begins to thicken to your desired consistency. If the gravy is too thick, gradually add additional broth (up to another 1 cup), stirring after each addition until it reaches a rich, pourable texture. Taste the gravy and adjust salt and pepper as needed; this is crucial to prevent it from tasting bland.1 ½-2 cups broth, ½ tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Return the seared beef tips and any accumulated juices to the pot, ensuring they are mostly submerged in the gravy. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer gently for 1 to 2 hours. The goal is for the beef to become wonderfully fork-tender and melt-in-your-mouth soft.
- Once the beef tips are perfectly tender and the gravy is rich and flavorful, serve hot, generously drizzled with the homemade gravy. Enjoy!
Chef’s Notes & Tips
Cooking for Tenderness: Beef tips, especially from tougher cuts, require a “low and slow” cooking method for optimal tenderness. While the meat is safe to eat after a shorter simmer (around 30 minutes), extending the cook time to 1-2 hours (or even slightly longer) will result in incredibly fork-tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef. Trust the process for the best results.
Uniform Cuts: For even cooking and consistent tenderness, ensure all beef pieces are cut into uniform, bite-sized cubes (1 to 1.5 inches). This prevents some pieces from overcooking while others remain tough.
Searing is Key: Don’t skip searing the beef before simmering! This crucial step creates a flavorful crust and locks in the meat’s natural juices, building a deeper flavor base for your entire dish.
Moisture is Your Friend: Always ensure the beef is sufficiently covered by the gravy during simmering. This moist heat is essential for breaking down tough fibers and keeping the meat juicy.
Gentle Stirring: Stir the beef tips only as needed to prevent sticking. Over-stirring can cause the meat to break apart or become tough.
Worcestershire Wonder: Worcestershire sauce adds a complex, savory depth and helps tenderize the beef due to its acidic components. If omitting, consider a splash of soy sauce or balsamic vinegar for a similar effect, though the flavor profile will differ slightly.
Nutrition Information
Nutrition Data Disclaimer
Macros and nutritional information are provided as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee. This information is typically calculated using third-party tools like MyFitnessPal.com and is an estimate. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information for any given recipe, you should calculate it with the actual ingredients used in your specific preparation, utilizing your preferred nutrition calculator. You, the user, are solely responsible for verifying that any nutritional information provided is accurate, complete, and suitable for your individual dietary needs and health goals.
