Irresistibly Cozy Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe

Published: January 31, 2026

by Clare

Why love Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy?

Comforting aroma: There’s nothing like walking into a home filled with the savory scent of beef tips cooking away in the slow cooker.

Effortless preparation: Simply season, layer, and let the slow cooker do the magic while you tackle other tasks or relax at home.

Ultimate flavor: Tender beef in a rich gravy creates a full-bodied taste that elevates any meal, perfect with mashed potatoes or rice.

Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, this dish promises to impress even the pickiest eaters. If you’re looking for more hearty recipes, consider checking out my delicious Ground Beef Potato bake!

Customization: Mix in your favorite herbs or veggies, like mushrooms, to create a uniquely personal touch!

Slow Cooker Beef Tips Ingredients

• Discover the perfect blend for your Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy!

For the Beef

Beef Chuck Roast – The main protein providing a hearty base; feel free to swap with sirloin or round steak for variations.
Salt & Black Pepper – Essential seasonings; adjust precisely to enhance the natural flavors.

For the Flavor Base

Onions – They caramelize beautifully during cooking, boosting the richness; shallots can be a milder substitute.
Garlic Powder – Imparts a robust flavor; fresh minced garlic can elevate the dish further.

For the Gravy

Beef Broth – This adds depth and richness to the gravy; consider chicken broth for a lighter twist.
Worcestershire Sauce – A vital component enhancing umami; soy sauce can be used as an alternative.
Flour – Essential for thickening the gravy; cornstarch or arrowroot powder are good gluten-free substitutes.

What You Need, in Addition

Optional: Mushrooms or Fresh Herbs – Add to customize and deepen flavor; think thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist!

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy

Prepare the Beef: Cut the beef chuck roast into bite-sized cubes, removing any excess fat for a cleaner taste. This helps ensure each bite is tender and satisfying.
Season: Generously sprinkle salt and black pepper over the beef cubes, making sure each piece is well-coated. This seasoning step ignites the flavors as they cook.
Layer: Place the sliced onions at the bottom of the slow cooker, creating a flavorful base. Top with your seasoned beef cubes, arranging them evenly for consistent cooking.
Add Liquids: Pour the beef broth over the beef and onions, then add the Worcestershire sauce and garlic powder. Stir gently to combine the flavors, ensuring the beef is submerged.
Cook: Cover and set your slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Allow the beef to become tender and soak in the rich flavors.
Thicken Gravy: After cooking, remove ½ cup of the liquid and whisk in the flour until smooth. Return this mixture to the slow cooker, cooking on high for an additional 30 minutes until the gravy thickens beautifully.

Optional: Serve with fresh parsley sprinkled on top for a vibrant finish!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy

Fridge: Store leftover slow cooker beef tips and gravy in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: Freeze the beef tips and gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking, ensuring to leave space for expansion.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of broth to restore moisture and flavor.

Serving Suggestion: For the best experience, reheat until the beef is warmed through and the gravy is velvety smooth, making it delightful over mashed potatoes or noodles.

Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy

• Sear First: Searing the beef in a skillet before slow cooking locks in moisture and adds a rich flavor, enhancing your slow cooker beef tips and gravy.

• Don’t Rush: Allow ample time for the beef to simmer; low and slow is the key to achieving tender, flavorful meat. Avoid cooking on high for best results.

• Check Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving. Seasoning can enhance the flavor profile, ensuring your edges don’t go bland.

• Add Depth: Consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during the last hour of cooking for a fresh, aromatic boost to your beef tips and gravy.

• Thicken Wisely: Mix flour in a bit of cold water before whisking into the gravy; this prevents lumps and ensures a smooth, velvety texture.

• Storage Smarts: Leftovers can be tricky. Store in an airtight container and reheat gently to maintain the tenderness of the beef and gravy.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing Savory Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy ahead of time is a brilliant way to save precious moments during your busy week! You can cut your beef chuck roast into bite-sized cubes and season it with salt and pepper up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. Additionally, you can slice the onions and refrigerate them to have everything ready to go. When you’re ready to cook, layer the seasoned beef and onions in your slow cooker, add the liquids, and follow the remaining cooking instructions. This ensures you’ll have a delicious, comforting dinner waiting with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Savory Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Gravy?

As you prepare this warm and hearty dish, consider what will elevate your dinner experience even further.

Fluffy Mashed Potatoes: The creamy, buttery texture provides the perfect base to soak up the rich gravy, turning every bite into pure comfort.
Egg Noodles: Their slight chewiness complements the tender beef beautifully, creating a satisfying dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Steamed Green Beans: The crisp freshness of green beans adds a burst of color and a crunch that balances the richness of the beef tips.
Garlic Bread: This warm, crusty delight is perfect for mopping up any leftover gravy, making it a flavorful side that completes the meal.
Roasted Carrots: Their natural sweetness and tender texture contrast wonderfully with the savory beef, adding an extra layer of flavor to your plate.
Crisp Side Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette refreshes the palate, providing a nice counterpart to the hearty beef tips.
Red Wine: A glass of full-bodied red wine enhances the flavors of the beef, offering a sophisticated touch to your comforting dinner.
Chocolate Cake: A slice of rich chocolate cake for dessert is the perfect way to end the meal, leaving everyone with a sweet note to remember.

Slow Cooker Beef Tips Variations

Feel free to customize your dish and make it your own with these delightful twists!

Chicken Substitute: Swap beef with chicken thigh chunks for a lighter, yet equally comforting option.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh thyme or rosemary to take the flavor profile to aromatic heights, adding freshness.
Mushroom Medley: Toss in sliced mushrooms for an earthy flavor boost; they absorb the savory gravy beautifully.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an exciting heat that elevates the whole dish.
Vegetable Power: Incorporate carrots or potatoes during cooking for a hearty, all-in-one meal that’s colorful and nutritious.
Gluten-Free Switch: Use cornstarch or arrowroot powder in place of flour to thicken the gravy without gluten.
Creamy Touch: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream just before serving for a luxurious, velvety finish.
Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika in place of regular paprika, giving the dish a subtle depth and a touch of nostalgia.

Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe FAQs

What type of beef should I use for slow cooker beef tips?
Absolutely! The best choice for slow cooker beef tips is beef chuck roast, known for its tenderness and rich flavor. You can also use sirloin or round steak, but keep in mind that they may require slight adjustments in cooking times to achieve the same level of tenderness.

How should I store leftover slow cooker beef tips?
Very good question! Store your leftover slow cooker beef tips and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the dish cools completely before sealing to preserve its freshness. When ready to eat, reheat gently in a saucepan with a splash of broth to maintain moisture.

Can I freeze slow cooker beef tips and gravy?
Absolutely! You can freeze the beef tips and gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just be sure to label the container with the date for easy tracking. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before gently reheating on the stove, adding a splash of broth for moisture.

What if my gravy is too thin?
No worries! If you find your gravy is too thin, you can thicken it easily. Remove about ½ cup of the liquid and whisk in 1-2 tablespoons of flour until smooth. Gradually return this mixture back to the slow cooker and cook on high for another 30 minutes. This step will result in a wonderfully thickened gravy that clings to your beef.

Are there any dietary considerations for slow cooker beef tips?
Certainly! If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, there are a few substitutes you can make. If gluten is a concern, swap out the flour for cornstarch or arrowroot powder to thicken the gravy. For a lighter option, consider using chicken broth instead of beef broth. Always be aware of guests’ allergies when planning your meal, and don’t hesitate to adjust ingredients accordingly!

Can I add vegetables to my slow cooker beef tips?
Definitely! Adding vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or even mushrooms can enhance your dish. Simply layer them in with the onions before adding the beef. They will cook beautifully with the meat, absorbing all those delicious flavors. Enjoy experimenting with your favorite veggies for a heartier meal!