Craving a hearty, satisfying meal that won’t keep you slaving over the stove? Look no further than this easy beef tips recipe. It’s a quick beef recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The tender beef and rich gravy will make it a family favorite.
This dish is versatile and can be made on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or with an Instant Pot. It’s easy to fit into your schedule. Serve it over rice, egg noodles, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Key Takeaways
- Ready in under 2 hours for a quick weeknight meal
- Versatile cooking methods: stovetop, slow cooker, or Instant Pot
- Uses affordable cuts of beef like chuck roast
- Packed with flavor from simple ingredients
- Can be prepared ahead and frozen for convenience
- Serves 4-8 people, depending on the recipe variation
- High in protein and iron, making it a nutritious choice
What Are Beef Tips?
Beef tips are small, tender cuts of meat that pack a flavorful punch in many dishes. They are easy to make and taste great. Knowing about beef tips can help you create delicious meals.
Defining Beef Tips
Beef tips are small pieces of tender beef from the sirloin or tenderloin. They are perfect for quick cooking and soak up flavors well. This makes them great for many recipes.
Best Cuts for Beef Tips
Sirloin tips are popular, but not the only good choice. Other tender beef cuts work well too:
- Sirloin
- Tenderloin
- Ribeye
- Flank steak
These cuts are great for quick cooking and stay tender. For slow cooking, try chuck roast, rump roast, or brisket.
Difference Between Beef Tips and Stew Meat
Beef tips and stew meat are not the same. Stew meat comes from tougher cuts that need longer cooking to get tender. Beef tips, on the other hand, are from tender cuts, perfect for quick recipes.
Characteristic | Beef Tips | Stew Meat |
---|---|---|
Cut Source | Tender cuts (sirloin, tenderloin) | Tougher cuts (chuck, round) |
Cooking Time | Quick (15-30 minutes) | Long (2-3 hours) |
Texture | Naturally tender | Becomes tender with slow cooking |
Price (per pound) | $8-9 | $4-6 |
Ingredients for Easy Beef Tips Recipe
This simple beef recipe needs just a few key ingredients for a tasty dish. The beef tips are the main part of this classic comfort food. The gravy adds depth and richness to the meal.
- 2 pounds of cubed beef (sirloin or tenderloin)
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cups water, divided
The gravy ingredients include:
- 1 packet dry brown gravy mix
- Soy sauce
- Worcestershire sauce
- Garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For extra flavor, try adding red wine for deglazing. Dry wines like Pinot Noir or Cabernet Sauvignon are good choices. You can also add mushrooms for more texture and taste. This simple beef recipe lets you add your own touches.
“Grass-fed beef is recommended for making beef tips for the best flavor and tenderness.”
With these ingredients, you’re set to make a tasty beef tips and gravy dish. Serve it over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to make it your own.
Preparing the Beef for Cooking
Getting your beef ready is key to a tasty meal. First, season the beef tips and sear them to keep flavors in. This makes your dish go from okay to amazing.
Seasoning the Meat
Begin by drying the beef tips with paper towels. This helps the seasonings stick. Then, mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, and other spices in a bowl. Coat each beef piece well with this mix.
For the best flavor, let the seasoned meat sit for an hour before cooking.
Searing Techniques
Searing beef is important for a deep flavor. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add beef tips in batches to prevent them from sticking together.
Sear each side for 30-45 seconds until it’s nicely browned. This step seals in juices and adds flavor.
Searing Step | Time | Temperature |
---|---|---|
Heat oil | 2-3 minutes | Medium-high |
Sear beef (per side) | 30-45 seconds | High |
Rest meat | 5 minutes | Room temperature |
By seasoning and searing the beef tips correctly, you’ll make a dish that’s full of flavor. Remember, how you prepare the beef sets the stage for a meal to remember.
Creating a Flavorful Gravy
A rich, flavorful sauce is key to any beef tips dish. This homemade gravy recipe turns simple ingredients into a delicious accompaniment. Start by sautéing minced garlic in melted butter, creating a fragrant base for your sauce.
Next, whisk in flour to form a smooth roux. Gradually add beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. The key to a perfect beef gravy recipe is slowly adding liquids. For extra depth, mix in Worcestershire sauce and a splash of red wine.
To elevate your gravy, consider these additions:
- Crumbled beef bouillon cube for intense flavor
- Dried herbs like thyme and rosemary
- A dash of soy sauce for umami
Simmer the mixture until it thickens, adjusting the consistency with a cornstarch slurry if needed. This versatile flavorful sauce pairs beautifully with tender beef tips, creating a comforting meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Unsalted butter | 2 tablespoons |
Minced garlic | 2 cloves |
All-purpose flour | 2 tablespoons |
Beef broth | 2 cups |
Worcestershire sauce | 1.5 teaspoons |
Dry red wine (optional) | 1/4 cup |
Beef bouillon cube | 1 |
Dried thyme | 1/4 teaspoon |
Dried rosemary | 1/4 teaspoon |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Cooking beef tips is easier than you might think. We’ll look at three popular ways: stovetop, slow cooker, and Instant Pot. Each method makes tender, flavorful beef with a rich gravy.
Stovetop Method
The stovetop method is a classic for cooking beef tips. Begin by searing the beef in a hot pan to keep flavors in. Then, add your seasoned gravy and simmer for about 1.5 hours until the meat is tender. This way, you can easily check and adjust the flavors.
Slow Cooker Variation
Slow cooker beef tips are great for busy days. Just put your seasoned beef and gravy in the cooker. Set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The slow heat makes the meat tender. This method is perfect for preparing meals ahead of time.
Instant Pot Option
For a fast Instant Pot beef recipe, use the pressure cook setting. After searing the beef, add your gravy and cook under pressure for 15 minutes. Then, use a quick release method. This quick way is ideal for sudden dinners without losing flavor.
Cooking Method | Cooking Time | Best For |
---|---|---|
Stovetop | 1.5-2 hours | Flavor development |
Slow Cooker | 6-8 hours (low) / 3-4 hours (high) | Convenience |
Instant Pot | 15 minutes (pressure cook) | Quick meals |
Make sure your beef hits an internal temperature of 145°F for safety. With these methods, you’ll always get delicious beef tips.
Tips for Perfectly Tender Beef
Learning how to cook tender beef is essential for delicious beef tips. Begin by cutting your chuck roast or stew meat into 1-inch cubes for the best tenderness. Searing the beef in batches creates a tasty brown crust that boosts the flavor of your dish.
It’s important not to overcook the beef tips. Use a meat thermometer to check if it’s done. Letting the meat rest after cooking helps the juices spread, making it juicier and more flavorful.
For tougher cuts, marinating before cooking or cooking it longer at a lower heat works well. The slow cooker is great for this, taking 3-4 hours on high or 5-7 hours on low. Or, use an Instant Pot for 35 minutes of high-pressure cooking to get tender beef.
Seasoning is key for tender beef. Mix garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and mushroom powder for rich flavor. Adding Worcestershire sauce and a bit of vinegar or wine in the gravy also tenderizes the meat more.
Stir the beef occasionally while cooking to make sure it cooks evenly. This tip ensures your beef tips are perfectly cooked, impressing everyone with your dish.
Easy Beef Tips Recipe Variations
Beef tips are a versatile dish that can be customized to suit various tastes. Let’s explore some delicious beef tips variations that will add excitement to your meals.
Adding Vegetables
Vegetable beef tips are a nutritious and flavorful option. You can enhance your recipe by adding mushrooms, carrots, or bell peppers. These vegetables not only boost the nutritional value but also introduce new textures and flavors to the dish.
- Sear beef tips in a hot pan
- Add chopped vegetables of your choice
- Pour in beef broth and simmer until tender
- Season with herbs and spices to taste
Wine-Infused Version
For a sophisticated twist, try a wine beef recipe. This variation adds depth and richness to the dish. Here’s how to create a wine-infused beef tips dish:
- Use 1/4 cup of dry red wine like Pinot Noir or Cabernet Sauvignon
- Deglaze the pan with wine after searing the beef
- Add beef broth and simmer until the meat is tender
- Finish with a pat of butter for extra richness
Variation | Key Ingredients | Cooking Time |
---|---|---|
Classic Beef Tips | Beef, onions, garlic | 2-2.5 hours |
Vegetable Beef Tips | Beef, mixed vegetables | 2-2.5 hours |
Wine-Infused Beef Tips | Beef, red wine, herbs | 2-3 hours |
These beef tips variations offer new ways to enjoy this classic dish. Whether you prefer vegetable beef tips or a wine beef recipe, you’ll find these options both delicious and satisfying.
Serving Suggestions for Beef Tips
Beef tips are great with many sides. Think about these ideas to make a fulfilling dinner. The rich gravy of beef tips goes well with sides that soak up the sauce.
Popular sides include mashed potatoes, rice, and egg noodles. These starchy sides are perfect with the tender meat and flavorful gravy. For a lighter option, try cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. These choices let you enjoy the beef tips’ flavor without the carbs.
Add some veggies to complete your meal. Steamed broccoli, roasted Brussels sprouts, or honey-glazed carrots are great choices. They add color, nutrients, and texture. Fresh parsley on top adds color and flavor.
Beef Tips Meal Ideas | Preparation Time | Cooking Method |
---|---|---|
Beef Tips over Mashed Potatoes | 30 minutes | Stovetop |
Beef Tips with Rice Pilaf | 25 minutes | Rice Cooker |
Low-Carb Beef Tips with Cauliflower Rice | 20 minutes | Microwave |
Beef Tips with Buttered Noodles | 15 minutes | Boiling |
For a full meal, serve beef tips with crusty bread or dinner rolls. These are great for getting every last bit of gravy. Or, for a quick and easy side dish, a simple green salad offers a refreshing contrast.
The key to serving beef tips is to offer a mix of textures and flavors. With these suggestions, you’ll make a meal that everyone will remember.
Nutritional Information and Benefits
Beef tips are a great source of protein, perfect for a balanced dinner. A 4-ounce serving has about 40 grams of protein. This helps with muscle maintenance and growth. It also has iron, zinc, and B-vitamins, which support overall health.
The nutrition in beef tips depends on the cut and how it’s prepared. A typical serving has 350-400 calories. For a leaner choice, pick top sirloin or tri-tip cuts and use less fat in the gravy. This way, you get a nutritious meal without losing flavor.
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 194 |
Protein | 40g |
Carbohydrates | 2g |
Fat | 7g |
This dish is great for many diets. For those on a keto diet, beef tips are a good choice because they’re low in carbs. You can also add more veggies to make it even healthier and more balanced.
Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions
Planning meals ahead can save time and energy. Our easy beef tips recipe is perfect for make-ahead cooking. You can prepare the dish in advance and store it for later enjoyment. Let’s explore the best practices for storing beef tips, freezing them, and reheating this delicious meal.
Refrigeration Guidelines
After cooking, let your beef tips cool to room temperature. Then, transfer them to an airtight container and put it in the fridge. Remember, they’ll stay fresh for up to three days. This makes them ideal for meal prepping or enjoying leftovers throughout the week.
Freezing and Reheating
For longer storage, freezing beef tips is a great option. Cool the dish completely, then put it in freezer-safe containers. When freezing beef tips, leave some space for expansion. They’ll keep well for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge.
When reheating beef tips, use the stovetop for best results. Heat over medium, stirring often. Add a splash of broth if needed to keep the gravy’s consistency. While microwaving is quicker, it may lead to uneven heating and tougher meat.
Storage Method | Duration | Tips |
---|---|---|
Refrigeration | 3-4 days | Use airtight container |
Freezing | Up to 3 months | Leave space for expansion |
Reheating | Best within 2 days of thawing | Stovetop preferred over microwave |
By following these guidelines for storing, freezing, and reheating beef tips, you’ll ensure your meal remains tasty and safe to eat. Enjoy the convenience of this make-ahead dish without compromising on flavor or texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To master beef tips, avoid key mistakes. Choose the right cut of beef, like beef chuck for tenderness. Searing the beef first adds flavor and depth.
Don’t make gravy mistakes by using flour or cornstarch. Let potatoes thicken the stew naturally. Add carrots 20 minutes before finishing to keep them tender.
Try new flavors with herbs and spices. Rosemary, thyme, or spices from Indian or Moroccan cuisine can make your dish pop. Using beef stock instead of water also deepens the flavor.
Common Beef Tips Cooking Errors | Correct Approach |
---|---|
Using sirloin for stew | Choose beef chuck for tender results |
Skipping the searing step | Sear beef for enhanced flavor and appearance |
Adding flour to thicken | Let potatoes naturally thicken the stew |
Overcooking vegetables | Add veggies 20-45 minutes before finish |
Using water as base | Use beef stock or broth for richer flavor |
Leftover beef tips can taste even better the next day. Add wine, vinegar, or lemon juice to balance the richness for a fresh taste.
Why This Easy Beef Tips Recipe Is a Family Favorite
This family-friendly beef recipe has become a hit in many homes. It has been tested by 109 people, showing it’s a top choice for comfort food. The recipe is easy to prepare in 10 minutes and cooks in 1 hour 45 minutes, ideal for busy families.
This dish serves 6 people, making it great for medium to large families. Each serving has 526 calories, 35g of fat, 8g of carbs, and 43g of protein. It’s a balanced meal. The recipe started with butchers selling affordable cuts, benefiting both sellers and customers.
What makes it a family favorite is its flexibility. You can use different beef cuts like chuck roasts, round roasts, sirloin, or tenderloin. Most stores have pre-cut beef stewing cubes, or you can get beef tips from your butcher. Simmering for 30 minutes makes the meat tender and the gravy thick and flavorful.
This beef tips recipe is our family’s go-to comfort food. It’s easy to make and always hits the spot!”
The recipe is also convenient. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months, making meal planning easy. For more protein-packed meals, try this healthy chicken salad recipe too.
Feature | Benefit |
---|---|
Quick prep time | Ideal for busy families |
Versatile beef options | Adaptable to preferences and budget |
High protein content | Satisfying and nutritious |
Freezer-friendly | Great for meal planning |
Pairing Wine with Beef Tips
Choosing the right wine can make your beef dinner even better. For beef tips, go for a medium to full-bodied red wine. A Cabernet Sauvignon or a Merlot is great because they match the rich flavors of the dish.
Using wine in your recipe? Serve the same wine with your meal. For example, the Red Wine Braised Beef Tips recipe uses 1/3 cup of dry red wine. This makes the flavors of the food and drink work together perfectly.
If you like white wine, don’t worry. A full-bodied Chardonnay can also pair well with beef tips. The key is to match the wine’s intensity with the dish’s flavors. With these tips, you’ll have a memorable meal that goes great with your beef tips recipe.
FAQ
What are beef tips?
Beef tips are small pieces of meat from tender parts like sirloin or tenderloin. They’re not the same as stew meat, which comes from tougher parts.
What are the best cuts for beef tips?
The best cuts are sirloin, flank, ribeye, and tenderloin. These tender cuts cook quickly and soak up flavors well. Tougher cuts like chuck roast and brisket are better for slow cooking.
What are the key ingredients for easy beef tips?
You’ll need cubed beef, vegetable oil, onion, garlic, beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. For the gravy, use flour or cornstarch.
How do you prepare the beef for cooking?
Dry the beef with paper towels and season it. Mix in salt, pepper, garlic powder, and other spices. Then, sear the beef in batches over medium-high heat to get a flavorful crust.
How do you create a flavorful gravy?
Start by deglazing the pan with red wine or beef broth. Then, sauté onions and garlic in butter. Make a roux with flour, and slowly add beef broth, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer until it thickens, adjusting with cornstarch if needed.
What are the different cooking methods for beef tips?
You can cook beef tips on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or in an Instant Pot. For stovetop, simmer for 1.5-2 hours. For slow cooker, cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. For Instant Pot, pressure cook for 15 minutes with quick release.
How do you ensure tender beef tips?
Don’t overcook the beef. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Let the meat rest before serving. For tougher cuts, marinate or cook longer at a lower heat. Stirring while cooking helps heat spread evenly.
How can you customize the easy beef tips recipe?
Add veggies like mushrooms, carrots, or bell peppers. For a wine flavor, use 1/4 cup of dry red wine when deglazing. Try different herbs like rosemary or oregano for a unique taste.
What are some serving suggestions for beef tips?
Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. Pair with steamed veggies like broccoli or asparagus. For a low-carb option, use cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Crusty bread or dinner rolls are great for the gravy.
How do you store and reheat leftovers?
Keep leftovers in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add broth if needed to keep it moist.
What are some common mistakes to avoid?
Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing. Skip the searing step, overcook the beef, and don’t over-salt early. When making gravy, whisk constantly to avoid lumps.