Beef Tips and Gravy is a comforting dish that features tender beef chunks in a rich, savory gravy. Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and mushrooms until golden brown. Add beef chunks and cook until browned. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir well. Slowly pour in beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Let the mixture simmer until the gravy thickens and the beef is tender. Stir in Worcestershire sauce and season with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. This dish pairs perfectly with sautéed asparagus, roasted broccoli, or French baguettes.
Beef Tips and Gravy is a classic comfort food dish that combines tender beef chunks with a rich, savory gravy. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
INGREDIENTS
- 1.5 lbs beef sirloin or tenderloin: Cut into bite-sized chunks. Sirloin is a great choice for its tenderness and flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for sautéing the vegetables and browning the beef.
- 1 onion, diced: Adds a sweet and savory base to the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the overall flavor with its aromatic qualities.
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced: Adds a rich, earthy flavor to the gravy.
- 2 cups beef broth: Forms the base of the gravy, providing depth and richness.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Used to thicken the gravy.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a tangy, umami flavor to the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the beef and gravy.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a touch of color and freshness to the finished dish.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Prepare the Vegetables: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onions and cook until they become translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This helps to build the base flavors for the dish. Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook until the mushrooms are golden brown and the moisture has evaporated, about 5-6 minutes. This step ensures the mushrooms are well-cooked and flavorful.
- Step 2:
- Cook the Beef: Push the vegetables to the side of the skillet, making space in the center. Add the beef chunks to the skillet, ensuring they are in a single layer for even browning. Cook the beef until it is browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. This browning process is crucial for developing deep, rich flavors.
- Step 3:
- Make the Gravy: Sprinkle the flour over the beef and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly with the flour. This helps to thicken the gravy later. Slowly pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer uncovered for about 10-15 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened and the beef is tender. This slow simmering allows the flavors to meld and the gravy to develop its richness.
- Step 4:
- Finish and Serve: Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed to ensure the flavors are balanced. Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. The parsley adds a fresh, vibrant touch to the dish. Serve the beef tips and gravy hot, paired with sautéed asparagus or roasted broccoli. French baguettes with sweet cream butter on the side make an excellent accompaniment. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion meal.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve the beef tips and gravy immediately after cooking to ensure the meat remains tender and the gravy stays warm.
- Pair this dish with sides like sautéed asparagus, roasted broccoli, or creamy mashed potatoes to complement the rich flavors of the beef and gravy.
- French baguettes with sweet cream butter are perfect for soaking up the delicious gravy.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to maintain the gravy’s consistency.
Helpful Notes
- Variation: Substitute the beef with pork tenderloin or chicken thighs for a different take on the dish.
- Substitution: Use cornstarch instead of flour for a gluten-free option to thicken the gravy.
- Tip: Let the beef rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking to ensure even browning and cooking.
Tips from well-known chefs
- Chef Gordon Ramsay suggests browning the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet, which ensures a better sear.
- Chef Julia Child recommends using homemade beef broth for a richer, more authentic flavor in the gravy.
- Chef Thomas Keller advises letting the gravy simmer slowly to allow the flavors to fully develop and meld together.