This Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy is warm, tasty, and super easy to make! Imagine tender beef cooked slowly in a rich gravy, all ready when you are—perfect for busy days!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: Chuck or round cuts are great choices because they become tender as they cook slowly. If you’re looking for a lean option, sirloin may work—but it might be less tender.
All-Purpose Flour: This helps create a nice crust when browning the beef. If you need a gluten-free option, try using cornstarch instead, which can help thicken the sauce too.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: A key ingredient for rich flavor! If you prefer homemade or need a dairy-free substitute, you can blend silken tofu with mushrooms and a bit of broth.
Onion Soup Mix: This adds great flavor. You can make a homemade version with dried onion, garlic powder, and a bit of beef bouillon if you want to control the sodium.
Carrots: Fresh or frozen works well. If you’re not a fan of carrots, peas or green beans can be used instead for a different veggie touch.
How Do I Get the Beef Just Right?
Brown the beef stew meat before adding it to the Crock Pot. This key step builds flavor through caramelization. Here’s how:
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Brown the beef in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Aim for a nice golden color, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Transfer the beef to the Crock Pot and start layering your flavors!
Don’t skip this step; it makes your dish much tastier! Plus, it adds a nice texture to the dish.
How to Make Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef:
- 2 pounds beef stew meat (chuck or round)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Gravy:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 packet (1 oz) onion soup mix
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
For the Vegetables:
- 4 cups sliced carrots (fresh or frozen)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy requires about 15 minutes of prep time, plus cooking for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Just a little patience is all you need for a rewarding meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Coat the Beef:
Start by taking a large mixing bowl and combining the all-purpose flour, salt, and black pepper. Toss the beef stew meat in this flour mixture until it’s nicely coated. This will help give the meat a lovely texture and flavor.
2. Brown the Beef:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of oil. Once hot, brown the beef in batches until it’s golden on all sides. This step adds great flavor. Once browned, transfer the beef into your Crock Pot.
3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent. Then, pour this delicious mixture into the Crock Pot with the beef.
4. Mix the Gravy Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, onion soup mix, and Worcestershire sauce until it’s well combined. Pour this luscious gravy over the beef in the Crock Pot!
5. Add the Carrots:
Now, add the sliced carrots on top of the beef and gravy. Try not to stir; just let them sit on top. This keeps them from getting mushy!
6. Time to Cook:
Cover the Crock Pot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender and the gravy has thickened beautifully.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, gently stir the beef and gravy to combine. Serve it hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles. Don’t forget to sprinkle with fresh parsley for that extra touch. Enjoy your hearty meal!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! While beef stew meat is best for this recipe, you can use pork shoulder or chicken thighs as alternatives. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly; chicken will likely take less time, around 4-6 hours on low, while pork can take a similar time as the beef.
How Can I Thicken the Gravy?
If you prefer a thicker gravy, just mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the Crock Pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will thicken the gravy without needing to open the lid too much!
Can I Make This Recipe Without Cream of Mushroom Soup?
Yes, you can substitute with other options! Try using cream of chicken soup or a homemade alternative using broth, sour cream, and seasonings. Just ensure it has a similar creamy consistency for the best results.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze in a suitable container for up to 3 months!
