If you’re in the mood for a hearty and comforting meal, look no further than these melt-in-your-mouth beef tips with mushroom gravy. This dish combines tender sirloin beef tips with a rich, savory mushroom gravy that’s perfect for topping mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. It’s a wonderful option for a family dinner or a special occasion when you want to serve something truly delicious and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 lbs sirloin beef tips
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 white onion, diced
- 8 oz sliced cremini mushrooms
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 beef bouillon cube
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoncinis
- 1 1/2 cups to 2 cups beef stock
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Beef:
- Season and Sear: Season the beef tips with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef tips and sear until browned on all sides. Remove the beef tips from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Roux:
- Cook the Onion: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Create the Gravy Base:
- Add Mushrooms: Add the sliced cremini mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they begin to release their moisture and become tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season: Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Add the beef bouillon cube and Worcestershire sauce, stirring until the bouillon cube is dissolved.
- Simmer the Beef Tips:
- Combine Ingredients: Return the beef tips to the skillet. Add the bay leaf and sliced pepperoncinis.
- Add Beef Stock: Pour in 1 1/2 cups of beef stock, adding more as needed to cover the beef tips. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the beef is tender.
- Thicken the Gravy:
- Cornstarch Slurry: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry.
- Thicken: Slowly pour the slurry into the skillet, stirring constantly until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. If the gravy is too thick, you can add a little more beef stock to thin it out.
- Final Seasoning:
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve:
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the bay leaf and serve the beef tips and mushroom gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Cook’s Notes:
- Browning the Beef: Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet when browning the beef tips. This helps ensure a nice sear and prevents steaming.
- Beef Stock: Use a good quality beef stock for the best flavor. Homemade or low-sodium options are great to control the saltiness.
- Vegetable Variations: You can add other vegetables like carrots or peas for additional flavor and nutrition.
Variations:
- Slow Cooker Option: You can prepare this dish in a slow cooker. Brown the beef tips and cook the onions and mushrooms as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Add the seasonings, beef stock, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Thicken with cornstarch slurry before serving.
- Red Wine Variation: Add 1/2 cup of red wine to the skillet after searing the beef tips for a richer flavor. Let it reduce slightly before adding the beef stock.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use a different cut of beef? Yes, you can use other tender cuts like chuck roast or beef stew meat, but adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the meat becomes tender.
- How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, this dish can be made a day in advance. The flavors will meld together even more as it sits. Reheat on the stove before serving.
- Can I freeze this dish? Yes, you can freeze the beef tips and mushroom gravy. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Melt-In-Your-Mouth Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy is a classic comfort food that’s sure to become a family favorite. The tender beef tips, savory mushroom gravy, and aromatic herbs create a dish that is both hearty and flavorful. Whether you’re serving it over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles, this recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner at home. Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors and the satisfaction of a truly homemade meal.
