Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy: Slow-Cooked Comfort
Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of slow-cooked comfort with our Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy recipe. This dish is a testament to the magic of a crockpot, where tender beef mingles with rich, savory gravy to create a meal that’s both comforting and convenient. Set it and forget it – let the slow cooker work its magic, filling your home with the aroma of a hearty and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
For the Beef Tips:
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cubed
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Gravy:
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for thickening)
For Serving:
- Mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles
Instructions:
Preparing the Beef Tips:
- Coat and Season: In a bowl, combine cubed beef stew meat with flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Ensure each piece is well-coated.
- Sear the Meat: In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat vegetable oil. Sear the beef cubes until browned on all sides. This step enhances flavor and texture.
Making the Gravy:
- Mix Ingredients: In the crockpot, combine beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried rosemary, dried oregano, and paprika.
- Add Beef Tips: Place the seared beef tips into the crockpot, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the beef is fork-tender.
- Thicken the Gravy: About 30 minutes before serving, whisk in 1/4 cup of flour to thicken the gravy. Stir well and continue cooking until the desired consistency is reached.
Serving:
- Choose Your Base: Serve the beef tips and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles – whatever suits your preference.
- Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh herbs like chopped parsley and serve hot. The beef should be melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the gravy rich and flavorful.
Cook Notes:
- For an extra layer of flavor, deglaze the skillet used for searing beef with a bit of beef broth and add it to the crockpot.
Variations:
- Mushroom Medley: Add a mix of fresh mushrooms to the crockpot for a delightful umami boost.
- Root Vegetable Infusion: Toss in carrots and potatoes for a complete one-pot meal.
Keto-Friendly Tweaks:
For the Beef Tips:
- Almond Flour Coating: Substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour for a keto-friendly alternative.
For the Gravy:
- Xanthan Gum Thickener: Replace all-purpose flour with xanthan gum for thickening without the carbs.
For Serving:
- Cauliflower Mash: Opt for cauliflower mash instead of potatoes for a low-carb side.
Low Carb Version:
For the Beef Tips:
- Portobello Power: Swap beef for portobello mushrooms for a hearty, low-carb alternative.
For the Gravy:
- Coconut Aminos: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a lower-carb, gluten-free option.
For Serving:
- Zucchini Noodles: Serve over zucchini noodles for a low-carb, veggie-packed base.
Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy isn’t just a recipe; it’s a symphony of flavors, an ode to simplicity, and a promise of a satisfying meal with minimal effort. Whether you’re savoring it over creamy mashed potatoes, hearty rice, or low-carb alternatives, the essence of slow-cooked comfort remains intact. So, set your crockpot to work, let the aroma fill your home, and embrace the joy of a delicious, fuss-free dinner. In every bite, revel in the tenderness of the beef and the richness of the savory gravy, and let this recipe become a staple in your repertoire of easy and satisfying meals
Elevate Your Crockpot Experience:
- Wine Wisdom: For an extra layer of depth, deglaze the skillet with red wine after searing the beef. Add this flavorful liquid to the crockpot for a touch of sophistication.
- Citrus Zest: Infuse brightness by adding a squeeze of lemon or orange juice to the gravy just before serving. The citrusy notes will balance the richness of the dish.
- Herbaceous Magic: Introduce a handful of fresh herbs like parsley or chives just before serving for a burst of color and a hint of freshness.
- Leftovers Reinvented: Transform any leftovers into a savory pot pie filling by adding mixed vegetables and topping with a low-carb or keto-friendly crust.
Keto-Friendly Tweaks:
- Ghee Goodness: Use ghee instead of vegetable oil for searing the beef, adding a rich, buttery flavor without the carbs.
- Cauliflower Rice Bed: Swap traditional sides for a bed of cauliflower rice to soak up the delicious gravy without the carb overload.
- Creamy Avocado Garnish: Top each serving with a dollop of creamy avocado for a keto-friendly touch of luxury.
Low Carb Adventures:
- Celeriac Surprise: Substitute potatoes with celeriac in the crockpot for a low-carb alternative that maintains a similar texture.
- Spiralized Veggie Delight: Serve the beef tips and gravy over spiralized zucchini or squash for a low-carb noodle experience.
- Cheese Crust Topping: For a low-carb alternative to breadcrumbs, create a crispy cheese crust by broiling the dish briefly.
Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy isn’t just a meal; it’s a culinary journey that invites creativity and exploration. Whether you’re embracing keto principles, venturing into the world of low-carb options, or simply reveling in the classic recipe, the slow-cooked goodness remains a constant. Allow this dish to be a canvas for your culinary innovations, adapting it to suit your preferences and dietary choices. As you savor the tender beef and rich gravy, may each bite be a reminder of the joy found in the art of slow cooking. So, let the Crockpot Beef Tips & Gravy be a staple in your kitchen, providing comfort and flavor in every delicious serving!
