Slow Cooker Beef Tips & Gravy

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Recipe: Slow Cooker Beef Tips & Gravy

  • Prep time: 15 minutes

  • Cook time: 4 hours (High) or 7-8 hours (Low)

  • Servings: 6

  • Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs beef tips or chuck roast (cut into 1-inch cubes)

  • 1 small yellow onion, diced

  • 8 oz sliced mushrooms (optional, but highly recommended)

  • 2 cups beef broth (low sodium)

  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (adds depth and “umami”)

  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

  • 2 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp dried thyme

  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

  • Slurry: 3 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 3 tbsp cold water

Instructions

  1. Sear (Optional but better): For maximum flavor, brown the beef in a skillet with a splash of oil for 2–3 minutes before adding to the slow cooker. If you’re in a rush, you can skip this.

  2. Combine: Place the beef, onions, and mushrooms into the slow cooker.

  3. Season: In a small bowl, whisk together the beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire, garlic powder, thyme, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the beef.

  4. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on Low for 7–8 hours or High for 4 hours.

  5. Thicken: About 30 minutes before serving, whisk your cornstarch and water together to create a slurry. Stir it into the slow cooker. Cover and cook on High for the remaining 30 minutes until the gravy is glossy and thick.

  6. Serve: Ladle over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or white rice.

Chef’s Notes & Tips

  • The Meat Matters: While “beef tips” are often sold pre-cut, using a chuck roast and cutting it yourself usually yields a more tender result because of the higher fat marbling.

  • Don’t Oversalt: Between the beef broth and soy sauce, there is plenty of sodium. Taste the gravy after it has finished cooking before adding any extra salt.

  • The “Secret” Ingredient: If you want a darker, richer-looking gravy, add a few drops of Kitchen Bouquet or browning sauce.

Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

Metric Amount
Calories 320 kcal
Protein 34g
Fat 14g
Carbs 9g
Sodium 880mg

Health & Lifestyle Benefits

  • High Protein: Excellent for muscle repair and satiety.

  • Iron & B12: Beef is a powerhouse for energy-boosting vitamins and minerals.

  • Low Effort: Reduces kitchen stress by handling the heavy lifting while you’re at work or running errands.

Q&A

Q: Can I use frozen beef?

A: It is safer to thaw the beef first. Putting frozen meat in a slow cooker can keep the meat in the “danger zone” (temp-wise) for too long, which increases the risk of bacterial growth.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: This keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. In fact, the flavor often improves the next day!

Q: My gravy is too thin, what do I do?

A: Mix another tablespoon of cornstarch with a tiny bit of water and stir it in. Make sure the slow cooker is on High, as the heat is what activates the thickening power of the starch.

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