Quick & Delicious Easy Beef Tips Recipe

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

1. Sear beef tips in a hot pan
2. Add chopped vegetables of your choice
3. Pour in beef broth and simmer until tender
4. 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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.