Easy Beef Tips Recipe for Dinner – A Savory Comfort Food Classic

If you’re searching for a hearty, flavorful, and easy-to-make dinner recipe, look no further than this Beef Tips Recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, this dish features tender beef chunks simmered in a rich, savory gravy that pairs wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or noodles.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the best Beef Tips Recipe, including step-by-step instructions, ingredient substitutions, serving suggestions, and expert tips to ensure perfect results every time.

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Why You’ll Love This Beef Tips Recipe

✅ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 1 hour with minimal prep.
✅ Budget-Friendly – Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
✅ Versatile – Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or egg noodles.
✅ Family Favorite – A comforting dish that everyone will love.
✅ Meal-Prep Friendly – Tastes even better the next day!

Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned chef, this Easy Beef Tips Recipe is a foolproof way to create a restaurant-quality meal at home.

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Ingredients for the Best Beef Tips Recipe

Before diving into the cooking process, let’s gather all the ingredients needed for this delicious dish.

Beef Tips Recipe Ingredients (Serves 4)

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Beef chuck roast	1 lb	Cut into bite-sized cubes
Onion (medium)	1	Finely chopped
Garlic cloves	3	Minced
Low-sodium beef broth	2 cups	Adds depth of flavor
Soy sauce	2 tbsp	Enhances umami taste
Worcestershire sauce	1 tbsp	Adds tangy richness
Cornstarch	1 tbsp	Mixed with water for thickening
Olive oil or butter	2 tbsp	For sautéing
Salt & black pepper	To taste	Seasoning

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor

• Mushrooms – Sliced cremini or button mushrooms add an earthy taste.
• Red wine – Substitute ½ cup of beef broth with red wine for a deeper flavor.
• Herbs – Fresh thyme or rosemary enhances aroma.
• Brown sugar – A teaspoon balances the savory notes.

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Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Beef Tips Recipe

Follow these simple steps to make tender, juicy beef tips in a rich gravy.

Step 1: Prep the Beef

1. Cut the beef chuck roast into 1-inch cubes.
2. Season generously with salt and black pepper.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

1. Heat oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions and cook until translucent (about 5 minutes).

Step 3: Sear the Beef

1. Add the seasoned beef cubes to the skillet.
2. Sear on all sides until browned (about 8 minutes).

Step 4: Add Garlic & Liquids

1. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Pour in beef broth, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce.
3. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

1. Mix cornstarch with 2 tbsp water to create a slurry.
2. Slowly whisk into the skillet until the sauce thickens (about 2 minutes).

Step 6: Simmer & Serve

1. Let the beef tips simmer for 30-40 minutes until tender.
2. Serve hot over rice, mashed potatoes, or noodles.

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The Best Cuts of Beef for Beef Tips Recipe

When making a Beef Tips Recipe, choosing the right cut of beef is crucial for achieving tender, juicy, and flavorful results. Not all beef cuts are created equal—some are better suited for slow cooking, while others work best for quick searing. Below, we’ll explore the best beef cuts for beef tips, their characteristics, and how they affect the final dish.

1. Chuck Roast – The Most Flavorful Choice

Chuck roast is one of the top choices for beef tips because it’s:

• Well-marbled with fat, which keeps the meat moist during cooking.
• Rich in collagen, which breaks down into gelatin when slow-cooked, making the beef incredibly tender.
• Budget-friendly, making it perfect for family dinners.

Best Cooking Method:

• Sear first, then simmer in liquid (like beef broth) for 30-40 minutes to tenderize.
• Ideal for stovetop, slow cooker, or Instant Pot recipes.

2. Sirloin – Lean & Tender

If you prefer a leaner option, sirloin is a great alternative.

• Less fat than chuck roast but still tender when cooked properly.
• Quick-cooking, making it suitable for faster meals.

Best Cooking Method:

• Sear quickly over medium-high heat to avoid toughness.
• Best for stir-fries or quick skillet beef tips.

3. Stew Meat – Convenient & Versatile

Pre-cut beef stew meat (usually from chuck or round) is a time-saver.

• Pre-cut into cubes, reducing prep work.
• Affordable, but can be slightly tougher than chuck roast.

Best Cooking Method:

• Slow simmering (at least 1 hour) to break down connective tissue.
• Works well in slow cookers and pressure cookers.

4. Tenderloin – The Luxury Option

For a special occasion, beef tenderloin tips are ultra-tender.

• Very lean and buttery in texture.
• Expensive, so best reserved for gourmet meals.

Best Cooking Method:

• Quick sear (2-3 minutes per side) to avoid overcooking.
• Best served medium-rare for maximum tenderness.

5. Round Steak – Budget-Friendly but Tough

Bottom or top round steak is lean and economical, but:

• Requires slow cooking to prevent chewiness.
• Benefits from marinating before cooking.

Best Cooking Method:

• Braise or slow-cook for at least 1.5 hours.

Which Cut Should You Choose?

• Best overall: Chuck roast (flavorful, tender, affordable).
• Quickest option: Sirloin (lean, fast-cooking).
• Easiest prep: Stew meat (pre-cut, great for slow cooking).
• Special occasions: Tenderloin (ultra-tender, expensive).

By selecting the right beef cut, you’ll ensure your Beef Tips Recipe turns out perfectly every time.

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 How to Make Beef Tips Gravy Thicker or Thinner

A rich, velvety gravy is what makes a Beef Tips Recipe truly irresistible. However, getting the perfect consistency can be tricky—sometimes it’s too thin, other times too thick. Below, we’ll cover multiple ways to adjust your beef tips gravy to suit your preference.

How to Thicken Beef Tips Gravy

If your gravy is too runny, try these methods:

1. Cornstarch Slurry (Best for Quick Thickening)

• Mix 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp cold water.
• Whisk into the simmering sauce and cook for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
• Pros: Instant results, no floury taste.

2. Flour & Butter Roux (Classic Method)

• Melt 1 tbsp butter, whisk in 1 tbsp flour, and cook for 1 minute.
• Gradually whisk in 1 cup of hot broth from the beef tips.
• Pros: Adds richness, traditional flavor.

3. Simmer Longer (Reduction Method)

• Uncover the skillet and let the gravy simmer for 10-15 minutes to evaporate excess liquid.
• Pros: Deepens flavor naturally.

4. Arrowroot or Potato Starch (Gluten-Free Option)

• Works like cornstarch but creates a glossier finish.

How to Thin Out Beef Tips Gravy

If your gravy is too thick, try:

1. Add More Broth or Water

• Stir in ¼ cup at a time until desired consistency is reached.

2. Use Wine or Cream

• Red wine adds flavor while thinning.
• Heavy cream makes it richer and smoother.

3. Adjust Heat

• A lower simmer prevents over-thickening.

Common Gravy Mistakes & Fixes

• Lumpy gravy? Strain it or blend with an immersion blender.
• Too salty? Add a splash of water or unsalted broth.
• Bland flavor? Boost with Worcestershire sauce or herbs.

With these tips, you’ll always have the perfect gravy for your Beef Tips Recipe!

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Side Dishes That Pair Perfectly with Beef Tips

A great Beef Tips Recipe deserves equally delicious sides. Whether you prefer creamy, starchy, or veggie-based pairings, here are the best side dishes to complement your meal.

1. Mashed Potatoes – The Ultimate Comfort Pairing

• Why it works: The creamy texture soaks up the rich gravy.
• Variations:
  • Garlic mashed potatoes (add roasted garlic).
  • Cheesy mashed potatoes (mix in cheddar or parmesan).

2. Rice – Simple & Versatile

• White rice – Neutral flavor lets the beef tips shine.
• Brown rice – Adds nuttiness and fiber.
• Cauliflower rice – Low-carb alternative.

3. Egg Noodles – A Classic Choice

• Buttery, tender noodles pair perfectly with beef gravy.
• Pro tip: Toss with parsley for freshness.

4. Roasted Vegetables – For a Healthy Twist

• Best options:
  • Carrots & green beans (sweet and crisp).
  • Mushrooms (earthy, enhances umami flavor).

5. Crusty Bread – For Soaking Up Gravy

• French baguette or garlic bread are ideal.

6. Creamy Polenta – A Gourmet Touch

• Silky, buttery polenta balances the savory beef.

7. Side Salad – For a Fresh Contrast

• Simple greens with vinaigrette cut through the richness.

Best Side Dish Combinations

• Family Dinner: Beef tips + mashed potatoes + green beans.
• Quick Meal: Beef tips + egg noodles + side salad.
• Low-Carb Option: Beef tips + cauliflower rice + roasted veggies.

Expert Tips for the Best Beef Tips

✔ Choose the Right Cut – Chuck roast, sirloin, or stew meat work best for tender beef tips.
✔ Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Sear beef in batches to avoid steaming.
✔ Low & Slow Cooking – Simmering ensures melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.
✔ Adjust Thickness – Add more cornstarch slurry if you prefer a thicker gravy.
✔ Make Ahead – This dish tastes even better the next day as flavors meld.

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Serving Suggestions for Beef Tips

This Beef Tips Recipe pairs perfectly with:

🍚 Rice – White, brown, or cauliflower rice.
🥔 Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and buttery.
🍝 Egg Noodles – A classic pairing.
🥦 Steamed Veggies – Green beans, carrots, or broccoli.
🍞 Crusty Bread – For soaking up extra gravy.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	312 kcal
Protein	37g
Fat	12g
Carbohydrates	16g
Fiber	1g
Sugar	3g
Sodium	580mg

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FAQs About Beef Tips Recipe

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes! Sirloin, stew meat, or tenderloin work well, but chuck roast is the most flavorful and budget-friendly.

2. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Sear the beef first, then transfer to a slow cooker with broth and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for 3 months.

4. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free.

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Final Thoughts on This Beef Tips Recipe

This Easy Beef Tips Recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves rich, comforting meals. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a restaurant-worthy dish ready in no time.