Beef Tips Recipe (with Video)

Beef Tips Recipe: Beef tips are a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. These tender chunks of beef simmered in a rich, flavorful gravy can turn a simple meal into a culinary delight.

Whether you’re a kitchen novice or a seasoned chef, this step-by-step guide will walk you through creating the perfect beef tips every time.

Ingredients for Beef Tips

To make this recipe, you’ll need:

Essential Ingredients:

• 2 lbs of beef tips (sirloin or stew beef recommended)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp flour (for thickening)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Additions:

• Mushrooms for extra flavor
• Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary

Tools Needed

• A large skillet or frying pan
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Slow cooker or pressure cooker (optional)

Choosing the Right Beef

The choice of beef significantly impacts the dish. Opt for cuts like sirloin tips, stew meat, or tenderloin. Look for bright red beef with minimal marbling to ensure tenderness. If you’re unsure, ask your butcher for advice.

Preparing the Beef Tips

Before cooking, rinse the beef lightly under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Remove any excess fat or sinew, as this can affect the texture. Then, cut the beef into uniform, bite-sized cubes to ensure even cooking.

Marinating for Flavor

Marination infuses the beef with flavor and helps tenderize it. Combine Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Coat the beef cubes evenly, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for enhanced flavor).

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Beef Tips

Stovetop Method

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Sear the beef tips in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook until each side is browned.
3. Remove the beef and set it aside. In the same skillet, sauté onions until soft.
4. Deglaze the pan with beef broth, scraping up browned bits for extra flavor.
5. Return the beef to the pan, add Worcestershire sauce, and simmer for 30-40 minutes until tender.

Slow Cooker Method

1. Sear the beef tips as mentioned above.
2. Transfer them to a slow cooker along with onions, garlic, and beef broth.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Pressure Cooker Method

1. Use the sauté function to brown the beef tips.
2. Add remaining ingredients and cook on high pressure for 20-25 minutes.

Making a Delicious Gravy

Gravy is the secret to elevating your beef tips into a show-stopping dish. Here’s how to craft a rich, savory sauce:

Ingredients for the Gravy:

• Drippings from the pan
• 2 tbsp of flour or cornstarch (for thickening)
• Additional beef broth (as needed)
• A splash of heavy cream (optional, for a creamier texture)

Steps to Prepare:

• After cooking the beef, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
• Over medium heat, sprinkle flour into the drippings and whisk until smooth.
• Slowly add beef broth while continuously whisking to avoid lumps.
• Cook until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Pro Tip:

• For a luxurious twist, stir in a knob of butter or a splash of cream at the end.

Serving Suggestions

The beauty of beef tips lies in their versatility. Here are some great pairing ideas:

• Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture of mashed potatoes complements the rich gravy perfectly.
• Rice or Noodles: Serve beef tips over fluffy white rice or egg noodles for a hearty meal.
• Vegetable Sides: Steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or sautéed asparagus balance the dish with freshness.
• Bread: A crusty baguette or dinner roll works well to soak up the delicious gravy.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Got leftovers? Here’s how to handle them:

Storage:

• Transfer beef tips and gravy to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Use a microwave, stovetop, or oven to reheat gently. Add a splash of beef broth to loosen the gravy if it thickens in storage.

Avoid Overcooking: Reheat on low heat to maintain the tenderness of the beef.

Variations to Try

1. Spicy Beef Tips: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the gravy for a spicy kick.
2. Vegetable Additions: Toss in mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas for a complete one-pot meal.
3. Herb-Infused Beef Tips: Experiment with fresh rosemary, thyme, or parsley for enhanced flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the Pan: Leads to steaming instead of browning the beef.
• Skipping the Marinade: Reduces the depth of flavor.
• Rushing the Cooking Process: Results in tough, chewy meat.
• Forgetting to Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process for the best results.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional value per serving (based on a standard recipe):

• Calories: 350-400
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 500mg (varies with added salt)

FAQs about Beef Tips Recipe

1. What are beef tips?

Beef tips are small, tender pieces of meat cut from the ends of larger cuts like sirloin or tenderloin. They are perfect for slow cooking, stews, or serving over rice or mashed potatoes.

2. How do you make beef tips tender?

To ensure tender beef tips, cook them low and slow in a flavorful sauce or gravy. Using a slow cooker or simmering them on the stovetop allows the meat to break down and become tender.

3. What is the best seasoning for beef tips?

Beef tips pair well with seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, and black pepper. Adding Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce enhances their savory flavor.

4. Can I use other types of beef for this recipe?

Yes, you can use chuck roast or stew meat as alternatives. These cuts are affordable and work well when cooked properly to tenderize the meat.

5. What sides go best with beef tips?

Beef tips are versatile and pair excellently with mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

6. How do I store and reheat leftover beef tips?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a bit of water or broth to prevent them from drying out.

Conclusion

Beef tips are a classic comfort food that can easily become a family favorite. With tender beef, rich gravy, and simple cooking techniques, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Whether served over mashed potatoes or paired with crusty bread, beef tips are guaranteed to impress.