There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting plate of Slow Cooker Beef Tips drenched in savory gravy. This dish is perfect for anyone craving a hearty, hands-off dinner that’s full of flavor and family-friendly. Whether you’re serving it over rice, mashed potatoes, or egg noodles, these beef tips slow cooker style are tender, rich, and deeply satisfying.
This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, Sunday dinners, or easy meal prep. Plus, it’s made in a slow cooker, which means minimal effort and maximum comfort.
Looking for more cozy dinner ideas? Try our flavorful Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers or this easy Crockpot Fajitas.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Slow Cooker Beef Tips
These crock pot beef tips deliver everything you want in a satisfying dinner: they’re rich in flavor, fall-apart tender, and unbelievably easy to make.
Here’s why you’ll keep coming back to this recipe:
- Minimal Prep: Brown the meat, add everything to the slow cooker, and walk away.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable cuts of meat and pantry staples.
- Kid-Approved: Savory, not spicy — perfect for picky eaters.
- Versatile: Serve over rice, mashed potatoes, or even Garlicky Kale with White Beans for a healthier side.
You’ll be amazed how a few simple ingredients turn into something that tastes like a labor of love.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Crock Pot Beef Tips and Gravy
Here’s what you’ll need to bring this comfort food classic to life:
- 2 ½ pounds beef stew meat (or sirloin), cut into 1-inch cubes
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 bay leaf
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons cold water
Looking for something sweet to serve afterward? Try these festive Pumpkin Cheesecake Truffles or Mini Pumpkin Bread with Cinnamon Swirl.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Checklist
To prepare these beef tips and gravy, you’ll need just a few common kitchen tools:
- Large skillet
- 6-quart slow cooker
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
- Whisk
- Mixing bowl or small jar
- Sharp knife and cutting board
Having the right tools ready makes the process even more seamless.
Step-by-Step Preparation: How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Tips
Here’s how to make these mouthwatering crockpot recipes beef in just a few simple steps:
- Season and Brown the Beef
Season beef cubes with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat and brown the beef in batches. This step deepens the flavor, so don’t skip it. Transfer the browned beef to your slow cooker. - Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, add chopped onion. Cook until translucent, then stir in garlic for about 1 minute. Transfer this mixture into the slow cooker with the beef. - Add Liquids and Spices
Add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, and bay leaf into the slow cooker. Stir everything well. - Cook Until Tender
Cover and cook on LOW for 7–8 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours, until the beef is fall-apart tender. - Thicken the Gravy
Mix cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry. Stir it into the slow cooker during the final 30 minutes of cooking and set to HIGH. The gravy will thicken beautifully. - Serve and Enjoy
Remove the bay leaf and serve the beef tips with your favorite side.
For a fun seasonal twist on comfort food, don’t miss our Pumpkin Chicken Chili — it’s a cozy fall favorite.
Serving Suggestions: Beef Tips and Rice & More
This recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some favorites:
- White Rice: Classic and simple, lets the gravy shine.
- Mashed Potatoes: Ultra creamy and comforting.
- Egg Noodles: A family-favorite option.
- Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs: A fun and cheesy side.
- Garlic Herb Roasted Veggies: Adds a healthy balance to your plate.
No matter how you serve it, these beef tips and rice are pure comfort.
Recipe Variations and Swaps
Want to put your own spin on this dish? Here are some easy tweaks:
- Swap stew meat for chuck roast or sirloin for deeper flavor
- Add sliced mushrooms with the onions for an umami boost
- Replace cornstarch with arrowroot for a gluten-free version
- Use low-sodium broth and omit Worcestershire for low-salt diets
- Add carrots or celery to the slow cooker for a complete meal
Craving more variations? Try our Vegetable Casserole as a hearty vegetarian pairing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with Crockpot Beef Tips
Avoid these common pitfalls to ensure your slow cooker beef tips turn out perfectly:
- Skipping the sear: Browning adds depth and caramelized flavor.
- Overcooking on high: Low and slow yields better texture.
- Using lean cuts: Choose marbled meat like chuck or stew beef for tenderness.
- Adding cornstarch too early: Wait until the end to thicken or it may break down.
- Forgetting to taste: Adjust seasoning after thickening the gravy for best results.
Pair with Cucumber Dill Salad for a fresh, bright contrast.
Leftover Storage and Meal Prep Tips
This dish is perfect for leftovers. Here’s how to store and enjoy it later:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Let it cool fully, then freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm gently in the microwave or stovetop with a splash of broth to loosen the gravy.
Love make-ahead meals? Try our Make-Ahead Breakfast Bowls for busy mornings.
Presentation Ideas for Beef Tips and Gravy
Turn this humble dish into a showstopper with these presentation tips:
- Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for color
- Serve in rustic bowls with a spoon of gravy poured over
- Plate over a bed of mashed potatoes with a drizzle of extra sauce
- Add a colorful side like Honey Glazed Carrots & Green Beans for balance
Hosting guests? These small touches make a big impression.
Food Pairings That Go Well with Slow Cooker Beef Tips
Looking for side ideas or beverages to complete the meal? Try:
- Cottage Cheese Flatbread: High protein and perfect for dipping in the gravy
- Garlic Butter Corn: Buttery, sweet, and a great texture contrast
- Lavender Lemonade: A refreshing, alcohol-free drink option
- Fruit Dip: For a light, sweet finish after a rich meal
These pairings enhance flavor and round out your dinner table.
Slow Cooker Beef Tips Recipe Tips for Best Results
Use these pro tips to elevate your dish:
- Let the gravy rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to thicken further
- Use fresh garlic and onion for deeper flavor
- Stir once halfway if you’re home, but avoid opening the lid frequently
- Double the batch for easy freezer meals
- Finish with a dash of pepper or herbs for visual appeal
Love creamy dishes? Try our Creamy Mushroom Pasta for another satisfying dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use stew meat for this recipe?
Yes! It’s affordable and becomes super tender when slow-cooked.
Do I need to brown the meat?
While you can skip it, browning adds a lot of flavor. It’s worth the extra step.
Can I cook on high instead of low?
Yes, for 4–5 hours on high. But cooking on low gives the most tender results.
Can I use flour instead of cornstarch?
You can, but mix it with cold water before adding to avoid lumps.
Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely! Try adding carrots, mushrooms, or celery for a heartier meal.
Conclusion & Call to Action
This easy and flavorful Slow Cooker Beef Tips recipe brings unbeatable comfort to your dinner table. With just a few ingredients and your trusty slow cooker, you’ll have a dish that’s rich, savory, and ready to impress.
If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it with friends and subscribe to our blog for more homestyle favorites, including Keto Peanut Butter Chocolate Fat Bombs for dessert or a fall breakfast favorite like Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal.
PrintSlow Cooker Beef Tips
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Tender, juicy, and loaded with savory flavor, these Slow Cooker Beef Tips are the ultimate comfort dinner. Simmered low and slow in a rich gravy, they melt in your mouth and pair perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. An easy, family-friendly recipe ideal for busy nights, Sunday dinner, or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 2 ½ pounds beef stew meat or sirloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 bay leaf
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons cold water
Instructions
- Season & Brown: Season beef with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high and brown the beef in batches. Transfer to slow cooker.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, cook onions until softened. Add garlic and cook 1 minute. Transfer to slow cooker.
- Add Liquids & Spices: Add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, and bay leaf. Stir.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 7–8 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours, until beef is tender.
- Thicken Gravy: Whisk cornstarch and cold water. Stir into slow cooker during last 30 minutes on HIGH until thickened.
- Serve: Remove bay leaf and serve over rice, mashed potatoes, or egg noodles.
Notes
- For deeper flavor, do not skip browning the beef.
- Add sliced mushrooms, carrots, or celery for more hearty texture.
- Use arrowroot powder instead of cornstarch for a gluten-free version.
- Chuck roast works great if cut into cubes.
- Store leftovers up to 4 days or freeze up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Category: Dinner, Beef, Slow Cooker
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: slow cooker beef tips, beef tips and gravy, crock pot beef tips, beef tips slow cooker, comfort food, hearty dinner


