You know those busy days when you’ve got a million things to juggle, and you still want to have a comforting, homemade meal at the end of it all? That’s where my Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy comes in. It’s honestly one of my favorite recipes because it combines convenience and flavor in the best way possible. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen while this dish cooks is enough to make anyone weak in the knees!
I remember the first time I made this dish. I was having a hectic week with work and family commitments, and I needed something easy but comforting for my family dinner. I threw all the ingredients into the crock pot, and just like that, my home felt warm, cozy, and welcoming. My kids came running in from the backyard, drawn by the mouthwatering smell. They still ask for it every month; it’s become a family staple! So, let’s dive into what makes this dish so special and how you can whip it up effortlessly.
What’s in Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy?
Beef Chuck Roast: This is the star of the show. I prefer using a well-marbled chuck roast as it breaks down beautifully during cooking and becomes fork-tender.
Beef Broth: This provides a rich, savory base for the gravy. I usually opt for low-sodium beef broth to control the saltiness.
Onions: Chopped onions add depth and sweetness to the dish. Feel free to use yellow onions or sweet onions, depending on what you have on hand.
Garlic: Minced fresh garlic brings fantastic flavor to the beef. I typically use around four cloves, but you can adjust according to your preference.
Worcestershire Sauce: This little magic ingredient adds a tangy and savory punch to the gravy. I recommend going for a quality brand for the best flavor.
Soy Sauce: It enhances the beefiness of the dish and adds a lovely umami flavor. Again, low-sodium works well.
Seasoned Salt and Pepper: A simple seasoning combo that balances out the flavors. I like to use a mix of regular and garlic powder, too!
Is Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy Good for You?
Absolutely! While we all love a hearty meal, it’s important to be aware of moderation, right?
Beef Chuck Roast: It’s a good source of protein and iron, but it can be quite fatty. That’s why I recommend trimming any excess fat before cooking.
Onions and Garlic: Both are packed with antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties, making them a great addition to any dish, including this one!
Beef Broth: Using a low-sodium variety can keep this dish heart-healthy. Plus, homemade beef broth can up the nutrient level significantly!
Overall, enjoying this meal in moderation fits perfectly into a balanced diet, especially when served with a side of veggies or a garden salad.
Ingredients List
– 2 lb beef chuck roast, trimmed and cut into 1½-inch pieces
– 1 cup beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low-sodium)
– 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– Optional: 1 tablespoon corn starch mixed with 2 tablespoons water for thickening
**Serves:** 4-6 people
How to Make Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy?
1. **Prep the Beef:** Start by trimming any large pieces of fat off the beef chuck roast, then cut it into bite-sized pieces.
2. **Throw it in the Pot:** Add the beef to your crock pot along with the chopped onions and garlic.
3. **Mix the Sauces:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, seasoned salt, and pepper.
4. **Pour it Over:** Pour the sauce mixture over the beef in the crock pot, ensuring all pieces are nicely coated.
5. **Cook Time:** Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. Trust me, cooking it low and slow is key to that tender, melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
6. **Final Touch (optional):** If you want a thicker gravy, about 30 minutes before serving, mix the corn starch with water to create a slurry and stir it into the crock pot. Let it cook for an additional 30 minutes.
Comforting Tips & Serving Suggestions
Trust me when I say that this meal is fabulous over mashed potatoes or fluffy rice. What’s better than some luscious gravy soaking into those carbs? If you’re feeling a little fancy, serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh side salad to brighten things up.
Want to switch things up? You can throw in carrots or mushrooms during the last couple of hours of cooking for added flavor and texture. And if you happen to have leftovers (not likely in my house!), this dish is fantastic the next day, too!
I really hope you give my Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy a try—there’s nothing quite like coming home to a home-cooked meal that’s ready to go. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Happy cooking!
