Introduction

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the satisfaction of a hearty meal like Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy. Picture this: tender beef tips slow-cooked to perfection, smothered in a rich and flavorful gravy. This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for young professionals and homemade-food lovers who often find themselves short on time but still crave a home-cooked meal.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing you to focus on other tasks while the beef tips become fall-apart tender. Plus, the savory aroma that fills your kitchen will have everyone eagerly anticipating dinner.

As you dive into this recipe, you’ll find that the combination of beef tips, brown gravy mix, cream of mushroom soup, and Worcestershire sauce creates a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat. Whether served over rice or mashed potatoes, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends, and it might just become a staple at your dinner table. So, let’s get cooking and discover the joys of making Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy!

Key Ingredients

Beef Tips

The star of this dish, 2 pounds of beef tips, provides tender, juicy bites that soak up the delicious flavors during cooking. These small pieces of meat are perfect for slow cooking, ensuring that they become melt-in-your-mouth tender by the end of the cooking process.

Brown Gravy Mix

A 1 packet of brown gravy mix adds depth and richness to the sauce without requiring hours of preparation. It’s a convenient ingredient that creates a savory base for the dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Cream of Mushroom Soup

The 1 can of cream of mushroom soup contributes creaminess and a subtle earthy flavor, making the gravy luscious and satisfying. It helps thicken the sauce while adding a comforting touch to the dish.

Beef Broth

With 1 cup of beef broth, you infuse the dish with even more beefy goodness. This ingredient ensures that the gravy is flavorful and has the right consistency, making it perfect for spooning over rice or mashed potatoes.

Onions

Adding 1 sliced onion introduces a sweet and aromatic element to the dish. As it cooks, the onion becomes tender and melds beautifully with the gravy, enriching the overall taste.

Worcestershire Sauce

A 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce brings a tangy depth to the dish. This ingredient complements the beef and adds a hint of umami, enhancing the savory notes of the gravy.

Garlic Powder, Pepper, and Salt

Seasoning is key! 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, pepper, and salt ensures that the dish is well-seasoned and flavorful. These spices round out the taste, making every bite satisfying.

This combination of ingredients results in a hearty, flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy as a delicious comfort food option!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

When it comes to weeknight dinners, Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy is a game changer. This dish is not only incredibly easy to prepare but also delivers a comforting taste that appeals to everyone at the table. Imagine coming home after a long day to the rich aroma of tender beef tips simmering in a savory gravy, ready to be served over fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes.

One reason you’ll love this recipe is its simplicity. With minimal prep time of just 15 minutes, you can toss the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you go about your day. The slow cooking process ensures that the beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, making it a hit with both family and friends.

Another highlight is the versatility of the dish. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables, such as carrots or potatoes, for a complete meal. Plus, if you’re looking for a thicker gravy, a quick cornstarch slurry can elevate the texture effortlessly. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and satisfaction to any dinner table.

Variations

Add Vegetables

One of the easiest ways to customize Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy is by incorporating vegetables. Consider adding carrots, potatoes, or green beans to the slow cooker. These additions not only enhance the nutritional value but also contribute to a heartier meal that can satisfy even the hungriest diners.

Different Sauces

While the classic combination of brown gravy and cream of mushroom soup is delicious, you can experiment with other sauces to change the flavor profile. For example, try substituting the cream of mushroom soup with cream of celery or a can of diced tomatoes for a tangy twist. Each variation brings its own unique taste that can keep mealtime exciting!

Spice It Up

If you like a little heat, consider adding some spice to the mix. A dash of red pepper flakes or a spoonful of hot sauce can elevate the dish, giving it a zesty kick. Alternatively, you could include fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to add freshness and complexity to the flavor.

These variations not only keep your meals interesting but also allow you to adapt the recipe to your family’s preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy experimenting with this comforting dish to make it uniquely yours!

Cooking Tips and Notes

Timing is Everything

When making Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy, timing is crucial for achieving the best results. Cooking on low for 7-8 hours allows the beef to tenderize fully, while cooking on high for 3-4 hours is perfect for those in a hurry. Whichever method you choose, the key is to let the beef simmer long enough to absorb all the flavors.

Thicken the Gravy

If you prefer a thicker gravy, simply mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the gravy during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will give you that luscious, velvety sauce that clings perfectly to your beef tips and makes every bite a delight.

Customizing Your Dish

Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe to suit your taste. You can add vegetables like carrots or potatoes for a complete meal. This not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutritional value. Remember, the slow cooker is forgiving, so feel free to experiment with different ingredients to find your perfect combination.

Enjoy the process of making this comforting dish, and don’t forget to savor the rich aromas as it cooks!

Serving Suggestions

Perfect Pairings

When it comes to serving Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy, the right sides can elevate your meal to the next level. A classic choice is fluffy mashed potatoes, which perfectly soak up the rich gravy, creating a satisfying combination. Alternatively, serve it over steamed rice for a lighter option that still captures all the delicious flavors.

Add a Fresh Touch

To balance the hearty flavors of the beef tips, consider adding a fresh salad or steamed vegetables on the side. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast, while vegetables like broccoli or green beans add color and nutrition to your plate.

Comfort Food at Its Best

For an even more comforting experience, pair the beef tips with buttered bread or dinner rolls. This allows everyone to enjoy every last drop of that flavorful gravy. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, these suggestions will make your meal memorable and satisfying!

Time Breakdown

Preparation

15 minutes is all you need to get your ingredients ready for this delicious dish. Simply gather your beef tips, seasonings, and sauces, and you’re set to go!

Cooking

Let your Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy simmer for 7-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. This slow cooking method ensures tender beef and a rich, flavorful gravy that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Total

In just 8 hours and 15 minutes, you can have a comforting meal ready to serve. This makes it a perfect option for busy weekdays when you need a satisfying dish without the hassle of constant attention in the kitchen.

Nutritional Facts

When enjoying Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy, you can feel good knowing it’s not only delicious but also relatively balanced. Each serving contains 450 calories, making it a hearty meal option. With 30 grams of protein, it provides a good source of energy and nourishment, while the 20 grams of fat include healthy unsaturated fats.

In addition, the dish contains 40 grams of carbohydrates, including 2 grams of dietary fiber to aid digestion. With only 2 grams of sugar and 800 milligrams of sodium, it’s a satisfying choice without overwhelming your diet. This savory meal is perfect for busy nights or when you want to impress family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen!

FAQ Based on “People Also Ask” Section

What is the best way to serve Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy?

Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy is best served over fluffy mashed potatoes or steamed rice. These sides soak up the rich gravy, making each bite a flavorful experience. For a complete meal, consider adding a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the dish.

Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?

Yes, while beef tips are ideal for this recipe, you can use other cuts like chuck roast or brisket. Just ensure the meat is cut into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and tenderness. The slow cooking method will help make tougher cuts tender and flavorful.

How can I thicken the gravy?

To thicken the gravy, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and add it to the crock pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will give you a rich, velvety gravy that clings to the beef beautifully.

Can I add vegetables to the Crock Pot?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or green beans during cooking can enhance the flavor and make it a more balanced meal. Just be sure to cut them into uniform sizes for even cooking.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy is the epitome of comfort food, combining tender beef with a rich, savory gravy that pairs perfectly with rice or mashed potatoes. This recipe not only offers a satisfying meal but also caters to the busy lifestyles of young professionals and homemade-food lovers alike.

With its simple preparation of just 15 minutes, you can set it in your slow cooker and let it do the work while you attend to other tasks. After cooking for 7-8 hours, you’ll be rewarded with a dish that is sure to impress your family and friends.

Don’t forget to experiment with variations—adding vegetables or adjusting the seasoning to suit your taste can make this meal even more enjoyable. So gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and enjoy the delightful flavors of this classic dish. Cook, save, share, and comment on your experience with this easy and delicious recipe!

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