Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy

Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy is a dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. This recipe features tender pieces of chuck roast slow-cooked to perfection, enveloped in a rich and savory gravy. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or simply want an easy weeknight meal, this dish shines with its delightful flavors and simple preparation. You’ll love how it transforms everyday ingredients into something special, perfect for serving over rice or mashed potatoes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With minimal hands-on time, you can set it and forget it while the crockpot does all the work.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of beef broth and mushroom soup creates a robust gravy that elevates the dish.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve over rice, mashed potatoes, or noodles for a filling meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week for quick lunches or dinners.
• Family-Friendly: This hearty meal is sure to please picky eaters with its comforting flavors.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this comforting recipe, ensure you have the right tools at hand. These kitchen essentials will help you create the perfect Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy without any hassle.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large mixing bowl
• Skillet
• Crockpot
• Whisk
• Measuring spoons

Why These Tools Matter

• Large mixing bowl: Allows you to easily combine ingredients without spills.
• Skillet: Ideal for searing meat, enhancing flavor through browning.
• Crockpot: Perfect for slow cooking, ensuring your beef turns out tender and juicy.

Ingredients

This Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy recipe features perfectly seasoned bite-sized chuck roast pieces, slow cooked until they are melt-in-your-mouth tender and topped with a beefy mushroom gravy.

For the Beef

• 2-3 pounds chuck roast (diced into 1-inch pieces)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ tablespoon garlic powder
• ½ tablespoon onion powder

For the Gravy Mixture

• 1 Au Jus gravy packet
• ½ Lipton onion soup mix packet
• 14.5 ounce can beef broth
• 10.5 ounce can beefy mushroom soup

For Thickening

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

How to Make Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy

Step 1: Prepare the Meat

1. Add the diced chuck roast to a large mixing bowl.
2. Pour in 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
3. Season with black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
4. Toss until every piece of meat is well-coated in seasoning.

Step 2: Sear the Meat

1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Add the seasoned meat pieces one by one to avoid overcrowding.
3. Sear each piece for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden-brown.

Step 3: Combine Gravy Ingredients

1. In another large mixing bowl, add the beef broth, beefy mushroom soup, half of the Lipton onion soup mix packet, and Au Jus gravy packet.
2. Whisk until all ingredients are combined smoothly.

Step 4: Cook in Crockpot

1. Transfer the seared meat into the crockpot.
2. Pour the gravy mixture over the meat and stir gently to combine.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Step 5: Thicken the Gravy

1. In a small bowl, mix together 1 tablespoon of cold water and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch until dissolved.
2. Add this mixture to the crockpot and stir well.
3. Allow to sit for an additional 5 minutes to thicken before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy over rice or mashed potatoes!

How to Serve Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy

Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors and textures. Whether you’re preparing a hearty family dinner or a cozy meal for two, here are some delightful serving suggestions to make the most of this delicious recipe.

Over Rice

• Serve the beef tips over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice. The rice will soak up all the savory gravy, making each bite satisfying.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing. The smooth texture complements the tender beef and rich gravy beautifully.

In a Sandwich

• Use crusty bread or soft rolls to create a hearty sandwich. Fill the bread with the beef tips and drizzle some gravy on top for extra flavor.

As a Pasta Dish

• Toss the beef tips and gravy with cooked pasta, such as egg noodles or fettuccine, for a comforting pasta dish that’s sure to please everyone.

On a Salad

• For a lighter option, serve the beef tips over fresh greens. Drizzle with your favorite dressing to add a burst of freshness.

In a Wrap

• Use tortillas to wrap up the beef tips along with your choice of veggies for a delicious and portable meal option.

How to Perfect Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy

To ensure your Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips that will elevate your dish.

• Choose Quality Meat: Using good quality chuck roast ensures tenderness and flavor. Look for well-marbled cuts for best results.
• Sear Before Slow Cooking: Searing the meat adds depth of flavor and creates a nice crust that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to taste and adjust seasonings as needed before cooking. This ensures that every bite is flavorful according to your preference.
• Thicken Your Gravy: If you prefer thicker gravy, mix cornstarch with cold water before adding it to the crockpot towards the end of cooking.
• Let It Rest: Allowing your dish to sit for about 5 minutes after cooking helps thicken the gravy further and allows flavors to meld together.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs or vegetables can brighten up flavors. Consider adding chopped parsley as a garnish before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy

Pairing sides with your Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy can make for an unforgettable meal experience. Here are some ideal side dishes that complement this hearty recipe perfectly.

1. Steamed Vegetables: A medley of steamed broccoli, carrots, and green beans adds color and nutrition without overshadowing the main dish.
2. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover gravy while providing a satisfying crunch.
3. Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes offer a crispy texture that contrasts nicely with the tender beef tips.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings in crunch and acidity, balancing out the richness of the beef and gravy.
5. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with savory dishes like this one, adding texture and flavor diversity.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad made with fresh vegetables can add a healthy twist while being filling enough to accompany the beef tips.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy, even the smallest mistake can affect the final dish. Here are some common blunders to watch out for.

• Skipping the Sear: Not searing the meat can lead to a lack of flavor depth. Always take time to sear each piece until golden brown before adding it to the crockpot.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoning can make your dish bland. Use ample seasoning when coating the beef to ensure every bite is full of flavor.
• Overcrowding the Crockpot: Filling the crockpot too full can cause uneven cooking. Stick to recommended portion sizes for best results.
• Not Using Enough Liquid: Insufficient liquid may dry out the beef. Ensure you measure your broth and soup correctly to keep everything moist.
• Cooking on High Too Long: Overcooking on high can make meat tough. If you’re in a hurry, stick to recommended cooking times for tender results.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It lasts up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
• Allow it to cool before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy

• Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It keeps well for 2-3 months in the freezer.
• Label containers with date for easy tracking.

Reheating Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil. Heat until warm, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Pour into a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy?

Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy is a hearty dish made from tender chunks of beef slow-cooked with savory gravy, perfect served over rice or mashed potatoes.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute chicken for beef in this recipe; however, adjust cooking times accordingly as chicken cooks faster than beef.

How do I thicken my gravy?

If your gravy isn’t thick enough, mix cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the crockpot during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or potatoes for extra nutrition and flavor.

What sides pair well with Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy?

Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread for a complete meal that satisfies your taste buds.

Conclusion

Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy is not only simple but also incredibly delicious and versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices. Try this comforting dish today and enjoy its rich flavors!

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