If you’re craving a comforting, hearty dish that feels like a warm embrace on a plate, this Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe is exactly what you need. Tender chunks of sirloin tips seared to perfection and simmered in a rich, flavorful gravy create a mouthwatering combination that’s perfect for dinner any night of the week. The blend of savory spices, robust beef broth, and a splash of red wine come together to form a luscious sauce that you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re serving it over creamy mashed potatoes or buttered noodles, this dish promises to satisfy your soul and impress anyone lucky enough to sit at your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two side-by-side views of cooking steps for a dish. On the left, there is a white plate filled with many small, browned chunks of cooked meat, each piece textured with a crispy-looking surface and rich brown color. On the right, a white pot with light beige inside holds finely diced red onions being cooked; the onions are softening with a slightly translucent look and some bits beginning to turn golden brown. The background is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays an essential role, from building layers of flavor to ensuring the perfect texture and irresistible color. With everyday pantry staples and fresh aromatics, this dish is as accessible as it is delicious.

1 ½ lbs. sirloin tips: Choose good-quality beef for tender, juicy bites.
3 tablespoons flour: Helps tenderize the meat and gives the gravy body.
3 tablespoons olive oil: For searing the beef to a beautiful golden crust.
1 teaspoon brown sugar: Adds a subtle hint of sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
¼ teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground for a mild kick and depth.
½ teaspoon each of salt, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, paprika: A balanced spice blend to season the beef perfectly.
¼ cup dry red wine (optional): Adds complexity and richness to the gravy.
2 tablespoons butter: Enhances flavor and adds silky smoothness to the sauce.
1 small yellow onion (diced): Sweetness and texture for the gravy base.
3 cloves garlic (minced): Brings aromatic depth and warmth.
2 cups beef broth: The heart of the gravy’s savory goodness.
1 beef bouillon cube: Concentrates the beef flavor for extra richness.
1 ½ teaspoons Worcestershire sauce: Adds tang and umami complexity.
¼ teaspoon each dried thyme and dried rosemary: Earthy herbal notes to lift the gravy.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Reinforces the onion flavor throughout.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: For balanced garlicky undertones.
3 tablespoons corn starch + ¼ cup cold water: To thicken the gravy to perfect consistency.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Beef and Seasoning

Start by combining all your beef seasoning ingredients into one mix; this ensures every piece of meat is coated evenly. Cut your sirloin tips into 1-inch cubes and trim any large pieces of fat to avoid unwanted greasiness. Sprinkle the seasoning all over the beef and toss it well, then dust with flour and toss again to create a light coating that locks in moisture.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet until shimmering. Add the beef in batches—remember not to overcrowd the pan or you’ll steam the meat instead of browning it. Cook each side quickly for about 30 to 45 seconds to develop a caramelized crust. The goal here is not to cook the beef through but to get that delicious sear that will deepen the flavor once simmered in gravy.

Step 3: Deglaze the Pan

Pour in the optional red wine and use a silicone spatula to scrape the browned bits off the bottom of the pan. These bits, known as fond, are packed with flavor and will beautifully enrich your gravy. Let the wine gently bubble and reduce by half, concentrating its taste.

Step 4: Build the Gravy Base

Reduce the heat to medium and add butter along with diced onions, cooking until they soften and become fragrant—about five minutes. Add the minced garlic and sweat it for one more minute. This interplay of aromatics gives your gravy a robust and comforting flavor profile.

Step 5: Add Remaining Ingredients and Thicken

Now, pour in beef broth, crumble in the bouillon cube, and stir in Worcestershire sauce, dried herbs, and additional garlic and onion powder for an extra punch. Bring the mixture to a boil, then gradually whisk in your cornstarch slurry (corn starch mixed with cold water) a little at a time to reach the perfect thickness for your gravy.

Step 6: Simmer the Beef in the Gravy

Return the browned beef to the pan with any accumulated juices. Simmer gently with the lid partially covering the pan for 10 to 15 minutes, ensuring the beef finishes cooking while soaking up the rich gravy flavors. This tender braising method makes each bite utterly delicious.

Step 7: Finish with a Touch of Butter

For a luxurious touch, swirl in a tablespoon of cold butter just before serving. This technique, known as Monter au Beurre, gives your gravy a smooth, velvety finish that will have everyone asking for seconds!

How to Serve Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe

The image shows two white pots on a white marbled surface, each filled with a rich brown stew. The left pot contains browned beef cubes on top of thick brown sauce, with some pieces showing a light pink inside. The right pot shows the stew fully mixed, with beef chunks evenly coated in a shiny, thick brown gravy, and small green parsley pieces sprinkled over the top. A wooden spoon is partially dipped into the stew in the right pot, slightly lifting some beef pieces from the sauce. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme brightens the dish visually and introduces fresh, earthy notes that contrast beautifully with the rich gravy. A sprinkle of cracked black pepper right before serving adds a subtle kick and texture.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes—the classic choice that soaks up every bit of gravy. But don’t stop there; buttered egg noodles or fluffy white rice also make fantastic companions that transform this dish into a hearty, satisfying meal perfect for chilly evenings.

Creative Ways to Present

Elevate your presentation by serving the beef tips over roasted garlic mashed cauliflower for a low-carb alternative or spoon the gravy and beef over crispy toasted bread for a rustic open-faced sandwich. No matter how you plate it, this Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe is always crowd-pleasing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover beef tips and gravy store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day—perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners during your busy week.

Freezing

This dish freezes well! Place cooled beef tips and gravy in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. It will keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge for the best texture and taste.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the beef tips and gravy gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the gravy is too thick after reheating, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up. Avoid microwaving at high power, which can dry out the beef pieces.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

Absolutely! While sirloin tips are perfect due to their tenderness and flavor, you can also use chuck roast cut into cubes or even stew meat. Just remember that tougher cuts might require longer cooking times to become tender.

Is the red wine necessary in the Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe?

The red wine adds a lovely depth and richness, but it’s optional. If you prefer not to use alcohol, simply omit it and increase the beef broth slightly. The gravy will still be delicious and hearty.

How thick should the gravy be?

The gravy should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still pourable. You can adjust the thickness by adding more or less cornstarch slurry until you find your preferred consistency.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, sear the beef first to develop flavor, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the beef is tender. You may need to adjust the gravy thickness after cooking by thickening it on the stovetop.

What’s the best way to serve leftover Beef Tips and Gravy?

Leftovers taste fantastic reheated and served over creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice. You can also use the beef and gravy as a filling for savory crepes or over toasted bread for an easy beef sandwich.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for a dish that combines hearty comfort with rich, savory flavors, this Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe is a winner every time. It’s approachable enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough to serve guests. Trust me, once you try it, it will quickly become one of your go-to favorites. So grab your skillet, pop on some music, and let this delicious recipe fill your kitchen with warmth and wonderful aromas.