Warm up your dinner routine with this incredibly comforting Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy recipe! This easy, hands-off meal transforms simple ingredients into a rich, savory dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Let your slow cooker do all the work, and come home to tender beef tips smothered in a flavorful gravy.
Why You’ll Love This Spectacular Slow Cooker Recipe
- Effortless . Minimal prep and the slow cooker does the rest.
- Incredibly Flavorful . The beef tips are slow-cooked to perfection, soaking up the savory gravy for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- Perfect for Meal Prep . Make a big batch, and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
With just a few simple ingredients and a trusty slow cooker, you can create a meal that’s both hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
Are Beef Tips And Stew Meat The Same Thing?
No, beef tips and stew meat are not the same thing, although they can sometimes be used interchangeably in recipes. Here’s a breakdown of the differences:
- Tenderness - Beef tips are generally more tender than stew meat because they come from better cuts.
- Cooking Method - Beef tips can be cooked quickly and still remain tender, while stew meat usually requires slow, moist cooking methods to become tender.
- Usage - While beef tips can be used in recipes requiring quick cooking, stew meat is always better suited for slow-cooked dishes.
Do Beef Tips Get More Tender The Longer They Cook?
When beef tips are cooked slowly at a low temperature, the connective tissues and collagen break down over time, making the meat more tender. This is why dishes like beef tips and gravy, or beef stews, are often cooked for several hours.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Beef Tips - The star of the dish, providing rich, beefy flavor and tender texture.
- Onion - Adds sweetness and depth to the gravy.
- Garlic - Infuses the dish with savory, aromatic flavor.
- Beef Broth - Forms the base of the gravy, adding richness.
- Worcestershire Sauce – Adds a savory umami kick to the gravy.
- Soy Sauce - Enhances the savory notes and deepens the flavor.
- Thyme - A touch of herbal warmth to balance the flavors.
- Bay Leaf - Adds subtle depth to the dish.
- Cornstarch - Thickens the gravy to a perfect consistency.
How To Make Beef Tips And Gravy
- Prep the Ingredients. Start by dicing the onion and mincing the garlic. This step ensures that all the flavors meld beautifully during the slow cooking process.
- Sear the Beef Tips. (Optional, but recommended) In a hot skillet, sear the beef tips on all sides until browned. This adds depth of flavor to the beef and the gravy.
- Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker. Place the seared beef tips, onion, garlic, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, thyme, and bay leaf into the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
- Cook Low and Slow. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Thicken the Gravy. In the last 30 minutes of cooking, make a slurry by mixing cornstarch with a bit of water. Stir it into the slow cooker to thicken the gravy.
- Serve and Enjoy. Serve the beef tips and gravy over mashed potatoes or rice for a complete, comforting meal.
Tips And Tricks
Creating the perfect Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy involves more than just following a recipe. Here are some helpful tips and tricks to ensure your dish turns out rich, tender, and full of flavor every time:
- Sear the Beef Tips First . Searing the beef tips before adding them to the slow cooker helps lock in flavor and adds a caramelized depth to the dish. The Maillard reaction (browning of the meat) creates a more complex and savory flavor.
- Use Low Heat for Maximum Tenderness . If you have the time, cook on low for 6-8 hours rather than on high. This slow cooking process is key to achieving the best texture.
- Don’t Skip the Cornstarch Slurry . The cornstarch slurry is essential for thickening the gravy to a luscious consistency.
Variations
This classic dish can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs:
- Mushroom Beef Tips - Add sliced mushrooms to the slow cooker for a rich, earthy twist.
- Red Wine Gravy - Replace half of the beef broth with red wine for a more robust, sophisticated flavor.
- Herb-Infused Beef Tips - Add rosemary and parsley for a fragrant, herbaceous variation.
What To Eat With Beef Tips And Gravy
Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy pair wonderfully with various sides. Here are some great options:
- Mashed Potatoes - Creamy, buttery potatoes are the perfect vessel for all that savory gravy.
- Steamed Rice - Fluffy white rice soaks up the flavors beautifully.
- Roasted Vegetables - A colorful side of roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans adds a nice contrast to the rich beef.
How Long Do They Last?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if the gravy thickens too much.
Can You Freeze Them?
Absolutely! Freeze the cooked and cooled beef tips and gravy in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove before serving.
More Of Our Best Beef Recipes
- Instant Pot Beef Curry
- Beef Barbacoa
- Italian Beef Sandwich
- Beef Bulgogi
- Spicy Thai Basil Beef
- Beef Rendang
- Beef Chuck Roast
- Gnocchi Bolognese
- Beef And Barley Soup
Beef Tips And Gravy Recipe | Slow Cooker Beef Tips
Ingredients
- ▢ 2 pounds Beef Tips , cut into bite-sized pieces
- ▢ 1 Onion , diced
- ▢ 3 cloves Garlic , minced
- ▢ 2 cups Beef Broth
- ▢ 2 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
- ▢ 1 tbsp Soy Sauce
- ▢ 1 tsp Thyme
- ▢ 1 Bay Leaf
- ▢ 2 tbsp Cornstarch
Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients. Start by dicing the onion and mincing the garlic. This step ensures that all the flavors meld beautifully during the slow cooking process.
- Sear the Beef Tips. (Optional, but recommended) In a hot skillet, sear the beef tips on all sides until browned. This adds depth of flavor to the beef and the gravy.
- Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker . Place the seared beef tips, onion, garlic, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, thyme, and bay leaf into the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
- Cook Low and Slow. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Thicken the Gravy. In the last 30 minutes of cooking, make a slurry by mixing cornstarch with a bit of water. Stir it into the slow cooker to thicken the gravy.
- Serve and Enjoy. Serve the beef tips and gravy over mashed potatoes or rice for a complete, comforting meal.
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Beef Tips And Gravy Recipe | Slow Cooker Beef Tips
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Beef Tips cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 Onion diced
- 3 cloves Garlic minced
- 2 cups Beef Broth
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 tbsp Soy Sauce
- 1 tsp Thyme
- 1 Bay Leaf
- 2 tbsp Cornstarch
Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients. Start by dicing the onion and mincing the garlic. This step ensures that all the flavors meld beautifully during the slow cooking process.
- Sear the Beef Tips. (Optional, but recommended) In a hot skillet, sear the beef tips on all sides until browned. This adds depth of flavor to the beef and the gravy.
- Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker . Place the seared beef tips, onion, garlic, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, thyme, and bay leaf into the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
- Cook Low and Slow. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Thicken the Gravy. In the last 30 minutes of cooking, make a slurry by mixing cornstarch with a bit of water. Stir it into the slow cooker to thicken the gravy.
- Serve and Enjoy. Serve the beef tips and gravy over mashed potatoes or rice for a complete, comforting meal.
Beef Tips And Gravy Recipe | Slow Cooker Beef Tips https://twosleevers.com/beef-tips-and-gravy-recipe/
Indulge in the rich and savory flavors of Slow Cooker Barbacoa, a dish that effortlessly brings bold Mexican cuisine into your kitchen. With tender, juicy beef simmered to perfection in a blend of spices and aromatics, this recipe is a sure-fire way to elevate your weeknight dinners or impress guests at a gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Spectacular Slow Cooker Dish
- Effortless Cooking. Let the slow cooker do the work while you enjoy a hands-off approach to a delicious main course .
- Rich and Flavorful . A perfect blend of spices infuses the beef with deep, savory flavors.
- Versatile . Use this barbacoa in tacos, burritos, bowls, or even on top of a salad.
- Great for Meal Prep . Barbacoa freezes well and makes for easy meal prep throughout the week.
Best of all, the slow cooker does most of the work, making it an easy and convenient option for any home cook.
What Does Slow Cooker Barbacoa Taste Like?
Slow Cooker Barbacoa has a rich, savory, and slightly tangy flavor profile with a hint of spiciness. The beef is slow-cooked until it’s incredibly tender, allowing it to absorb all the bold and complex flavors from the marinade and spices.
The taste is a delightful combination of smoky, earthy, and slightly acidic notes, often enhanced by ingredients like chipotle peppers, garlic, cumin, and lime juice. The slow cooking process intensifies these flavors, making each bite melt-in-your-mouth delicious with a deep, satisfying taste.
What Kind Of Meat Is Barbacoa?
Barbacoa is a traditional Mexican dish made from beef, lamb, or goat, slow-cooked until the meat is tender and easily shredded. It’s seasoned with a combination of spices, herbs, and sometimes vinegar or citrus to create a deep, rich flavor.
In Mexico, barbacoa is often prepared in a pit oven, but this slow cooker version brings all the traditional flavors into the comfort of your home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Beef Chuck Roast - The main protein that becomes incredibly tender when slow-cooked.
- Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce - Adds smokiness and a bit of heat to the dish.
- Garlic - Provides a robust, aromatic flavor.
- Onion - Adds a sweet and savory base to the barbacoa.
- Beef Broth - Enhances the richness of the beef.
- Apple Cider Vinegar - Adds a tangy note that balances the richness of the meat.
- Lime Juice - Brightens up the flavors with a zesty touch.
- Cumin - A warm, earthy spice that’s essential for authentic Mexican flavor.
- Oregano - Adds a subtle herbaceous note.
- Bay Leaves - Infuse the beef with a fragrant aroma.
- Salt and Pepper - Essential seasonings to enhance the overall flavor.
How To Make Slow Cooker Barbacoa
- Prep the Ingredients . Start by trimming any excess fat from the beef chuck roast. Cut the roast into large chunks to ensure even cooking.
- Blend the Sauce . In a blender or food processor, combine chipotle peppers, garlic, onion, beef broth, apple cider vinegar, lime juice, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
- Slow Cook . Place the beef chunks in the slow cooker. Pour the blended sauce over the beef, making sure all the pieces are coated. Add bay leaves to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the beef is tender and easily shredded.
- Shred the Beef . Once cooked, remove the beef from the slow cooker and use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker and mix it with the sauce.
- Serve . Serve your barbacoa in warm tortillas for tacos, over rice for a hearty bowl, or in any other creative way you like. Top with fresh cilantro, diced onions, or your favorite salsa.
Tips And Tricks
Here are some tips and tricks for making perfect Slow Cooker Barbacoa:
- Use the Right Cut of Meat . Beef Chuck Roast is ideal for barbacoa because it has enough fat to keep the meat moist and flavorful during the long cooking process. Other good options include beef brisket or short ribs.
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor . Marinate the meat overnight if possible. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, making the final dish more flavorful. Use ingredients like lime juice, garlic, cumin, and chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for an authentic taste.
- Sear the Meat First . Searing the meat before placing it in the slow cooker locks in the juices and adds a layer of flavor. Sear each side of the beef until it’s browned for the best results.
Variations
Here are some delicious variations for Slow Cooker Barbacoa that can add new flavors and textures to this classic dish:
- Pork- Swap beef for pork by using pork shoulder or pork butt. The cooking process and seasoning remain the same, but the result is a slightly sweeter and more tender barbacoa.
- Chicken- Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a leaner option. Chicken thighs stay moist and flavorful during the slow cooking process and absorb the spices beautifully.
- Lamb- Try lamb instead of beef for a rich and unique twist. Lamb shoulder works well and pairs nicely with the traditional spices, adding a distinct depth of flavor.
What To Serve With Slow Cooker Barbacoa
Barbacoa pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and toppings:
- Mexican Street Corn - A creamy, spicy side that complements the bold flavors of barbacoa.
- Guacamole - The creaminess of guacamole balances the spiciness of the barbacoa.
- Pico de Gallo - A fresh, zesty topping that adds brightness to the rich meat.
- Rice and Beans - A classic combination that rounds out the meal.
How Long Does It Last?
Slow Cooker Barbacoa can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Ensure it is kept in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Can You Freeze It?
If you want to store it for longer, barbacoa can be frozen for up to 3 months.
When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep or planning ahead for busy weeks.
More Of OurBest Taco Recipes
- Slow Cooker Carnitas
- Chicken Tinga Tacos
- Buffalo Chicken Tacos
- Cauliflower Tacos
- Chicken Street Tacos
Slow Cooker Barbacoa Recipe | Crockpot Beef Barbacoa
Ingredients
- ▢ 2 1/2 pounds Beef Chuck Roast
- ▢ 2 Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce , Plus 1 tbsp of Sauce
- ▢ 4 cloves Garlic , minced
- ▢ 1 Onion , diced
- ▢ 1 cup Beef Broth
- ▢ 2 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
- ▢ 2 tbsp Lime Juice
- ▢ 2 tsp Cumin
- ▢ 1 tsp Oregano
- ▢ 2 Bay Leaves
- ▢ 1 tsp Kosher Salt
- ▢ 1/2 tsp Ground Black Pepper
Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients . Start by trimming any excess fat from the beef chuck roast. Cut the roast into large chunks to ensure even cooking.
- Blend the Sauce . In a blender or food processor, combine chipotle peppers, garlic, onion, beef broth, apple cider vinegar, lime juice, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
- Slow Cook . Place the beef chunks in the slow cooker. Pour the blended sauce over the beef, making sure all the pieces are coated. Add bay leaves to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the beef is tender and easily shredded.
- Shred the Beef . Once cooked, remove the beef from the slow cooker and use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker and mix it with the sauce.
- Serve . Serve your barbacoa in warm tortillas for tacos, over rice for a hearty bowl, or in any other creative way you like. Top with fresh cilantro, diced onions, or your favorite salsa.
