Transform tender beef into an incredible comfort meal with this ultimate Beef Tips and Gravy recipe. This dish features perfectly seasoned, succulent pieces of beef swimming in a rich, savory gravy that’s absolutely irresistible over mashed potatoes or rice.

Why This Recipe Works

The secret to this exceptional dish lies in properly searing the meat to develop deep flavor, then slow-cooking until tender. The gravy is made with the flavorful pan drippings, creating layers of rich taste that make this recipe stand out from all others.

Essential Ingredients

For the Beef:

• 2.5 pounds beef chuck or sirloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

For the Gravy:

• 1 large onion, diced
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (optional)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving:

• Mashed potatoes or rice
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Additional butter if desired

Required Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon
• Whisk
• Paper towels

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Beef

1. Season the meat:

• Pat beef cubes dry
• Mix seasonings
• Coat beef evenly
• Let rest 15 minutes

1. Sear the beef:

• Heat oil and butter
• Work in small batches
• Brown all sides
• Remove and set aside

Making the Gravy

1. Build the base:

• Add onions to pan
• Cook until softened
• Add mushrooms if using
• Sauté until golden

1. Create the roux:

• Add flour to vegetables
• Cook 2-3 minutes
• Stir constantly
• Should be golden brown

1. Develop the gravy:

• Gradually add beef broth
• Whisk continuously
• Add Worcestershire
• Bring to simmer

Completing the Dish

1. Final cooking:

• Return beef to pot
• Add herbs and bay leaves
• Simmer 1.5-2 hours
• Check tenderness

1. Finishing touches:

• Adjust seasoning
• Remove bay leaves
• Check consistency
• Add butter if desired

Pro Tips for Success

1. Meat Selection:

• Choose marbled beef
• Cut uniform pieces
• Pat dry thoroughly
• Room temperature

1. Searing Tips:

• Don’t overcrowd pan
• High heat
• Develop crust
• Be patient

1. Gravy Success:

• Cook flour well
• Add liquid gradually
• Keep whisking
• Watch consistency

Make-Ahead and Storage

Make-Ahead Options:

• Prepare day before
• Reheat gently
• Add liquid if needed
• Store properly

Storage Guidelines:

• Refrigerate up to 4 days
• Freeze up to 3 months
• Cool completely first
• Reheat slowly

Variations and Adaptations

Cooking Methods:

• Slow cooker version
• Pressure cooker
• Oven braised
• Stovetop slow cook

Additional Ingredients:

• Pearl onions
• Root vegetables
• Red wine addition
• Fresh herbs

Serving Options:

• Over noodles
• With rice
• Mashed potatoes
• Crusty bread

Troubleshooting Tips

Common Issues:

• Tough meat: Cook longer
• Thin gravy: Reduce more
• Lumpy gravy: Strain
• Too thick: Add broth

Prevention Tips:

• Choose right cut
• Don’t rush cooking
• Monitor temperature
• Season gradually

Perfect Pairings

Side Dishes:

• Glazed carrots
• Green beans
• Roasted vegetables
• Fresh salad

Bread Options:

• Dinner rolls
• Crusty bread
• Garlic bread
• Biscuits

This BEST Beef Tips and Gravy recipe creates a comforting, satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The combination of tender beef and rich gravy makes it a dish that everyone will love and request again and again.