If you’re craving a comforting, hearty, and flavorful dinner, this beef tips recipe is the perfect choice. Tender chunks of beef are slow-cooked in a rich, savory gravy that’s perfect over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy weeknight or hosting a cozy weekend dinner, this dish always hits the spot.
In this post, we’ll walk you through everything — from choosing the right cut of beef to making a delicious homemade gravy — so your beef tips turn out melt-in-your-mouth tender every time.
What Are Beef Tips?
Beef tips are small, bite-sized pieces of beef that come from tender parts of the animal, often sirloin or tenderloin. However, many beef tips recipes use stew meat or chuck roast because, when cooked slowly, these tougher cuts become juicy and flavorful.
Traditionally, beef tips are simmered with onions, garlic, and broth until fork-tender, then served with gravy over rice or mashed potatoes. It’s a classic Southern and Midwestern comfort dish that’s both hearty and simple.
Why You’ll Love This Beef Tips Recipe
Here’s why this beef tips recipe stands out:
✅ Rich and hearty: The beef simmers in a deep, flavorful gravy.
✅ Simple ingredients: You likely have everything in your pantry already.
✅ One-pan meal: Fewer dishes, more flavor.
✅ Perfect comfort food: Ideal for cold nights or Sunday dinners.
✅ Versatile: Serve with noodles, rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted veggies.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Beef Tips Recipe
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this beef tips recipe from scratch:
For the Beef:
- 2 pounds beef sirloin tips or stew meat
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cups beef broth (low sodium recommended)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for richness)
For the Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup water (or additional beef broth)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How to Make Beef Tips Recipe (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps to make the most tender and flavorful beef tips at home:
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Start by patting your beef dry with paper towels — this helps it brown better.
Cut the beef into 1 to 1½-inch chunks if it’s not already pre-cut. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan).
Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until browned. This step adds a deep, meaty flavor that’s essential to the dish.
Remove the beef and set it aside on a plate.
Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic
In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed, then toss in the chopped onions. Cook for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add garlic and cook another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Deglaze the Pan
Pour in a bit of the beef broth and scrape up the brown bits stuck to the bottom — this is where the flavor lives!
Add Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and tomato paste (if using), stirring well.
Step 5: Simmer the Beef
Return the beef to the pan. Pour in the rest of the beef broth and bring everything to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 1½ to 2 hours — or until the beef is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
Tip: You can also cook this in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or in an Instant Pot on high pressure for 30-35 minutes.
Step 6: Make the Gravy
Once the beef is tender, remove it from the pan and set aside.
In a small bowl, mix flour (or cornstarch) with a few tablespoons of cold water to make a slurry.
Whisk this into the simmering liquid and stir until the gravy thickens, about 3–5 minutes.
Add butter for richness and stir until glossy.
Step 7: Combine and Serve
Return the beef to the gravy and simmer for another 5 minutes to let the flavors blend.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot over your favorite side dish.
What to Serve With Beef Tips
This beef tips recipe pairs beautifully with almost any comfort side. Here are some serving ideas:
- 🥔 Mashed potatoes – the creamy base soaks up the gravy perfectly.
- 🍚 Steamed white rice – a classic Southern combo.
- 🍜 Egg noodles – ideal for turning this into a cozy, stroganoff-style meal.
- 🥖 Buttered biscuits or dinner rolls – for sopping up every last bit of gravy.
- 🥦 Roasted vegetables – broccoli, carrots, or green beans for a balanced plate.
Recipe Variations
There are plenty of ways to customize this beef tips recipe depending on your taste and cooking method:
1. Mushroom Beef Tips
Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms (button or cremini) when sautéing the onions for an earthy, umami-rich flavor.
2. Slow Cooker Beef Tips
Add all ingredients (except flour and butter) to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours.
Thicken the gravy at the end by whisking in a flour slurry.
3. Instant Pot Beef Tips
Use the sauté setting to brown the beef and onions, then pressure cook with broth for 30 minutes.
After cooking, use the sauté mode again to thicken the gravy.
4. Red Wine Beef Tips
Replace ½ cup of beef broth with dry red wine for a richer, more elegant flavor.
5. Creamy Beef Tips
Add ¼ cup of heavy cream at the end for a creamy, luxurious twist on the traditional recipe.
Tips for the Best Beef Tips
To make sure your beef tips recipe comes out perfect every time, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Don’t rush the browning: Searing adds essential flavor depth to the dish.
- Low and slow is key: Simmer gently for tender beef.
- Taste and adjust: Add salt, pepper, or Worcestershire at the end as needed.
- Use quality beef broth: Homemade or low-sodium for better control of flavor.
- Make ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If you have leftovers (and you probably will because this recipe makes plenty!), here’s how to store and reheat them properly:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat. Add a splash of broth to loosen the gravy.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What cut of beef is best for beef tips?
Sirloin tips are ideal, but stew meat or chuck roast works great too — especially when slow-cooked.
2. Can I make this beef tips recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! The flavors deepen as it sits, so it’s perfect for meal prep or next-day leftovers.
3. How do I make the gravy thicker?
If your gravy is too thin, add more flour slurry or simmer uncovered for a few minutes until it reaches the desired consistency.
4. Can I make beef tips without beef broth?
Yes, but you’ll need flavorful substitutes like vegetable broth or chicken broth, and a dash of soy sauce or Worcestershire to enhance the umami.
5. What wine pairs best with beef tips?
A bold red like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot complements the rich, meaty flavors perfectly.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
(Approximate values, depending on ingredients used)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 28g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fiber: 1g
Why This Beef Tips Recipe Is a Family Favorite
This beef tips recipe has stood the test of time because it’s simple, comforting, and absolutely delicious. The beef turns out tender and juicy, the gravy is rich and full of flavor, and it’s versatile enough to serve with any side dish. It’s the kind of home-cooked meal that warms your heart and fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas.
Whether you’re making it on a Sunday afternoon or prepping a weeknight dinner, this is a dish your family will ask for again and again.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a foolproof, flavorful, and comforting beef tips recipe, this one checks all the boxes. It’s easy enough for beginners yet impressive enough for guests. With just a few basic ingredients and some patience, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.
Serve it over mashed potatoes, noodles, or rice, and watch it become a new family favorite. Once you make it, you’ll never want to buy pre-made beef tips again!
