Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Onion Gravy
Tender beef tips slow-cooked in a rich, savory onion gravy that’s full of deep, comforting flavor.
This classic slow cooker meal is easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and perfect for busy days. The beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender while the onions create a naturally flavorful gravy—no complicated steps required.
Ingredients
-
2–3 lbs beef steaks or sirloin, cut into large chunks
-
1 large onion, thinly sliced
-
1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
-
1 tsp black pepper
-
1 tsp garlic powder (optional but recommended)
-
1 tsp onion powder (optional, enhances gravy)
-
1½ cups beef broth
-
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
-
2 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Beef
Pat beef dry and season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. -
Layer the Slow Cooker
Place sliced onions in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the beef chunks on top. -
Add Liquid
Pour beef broth and Worcestershire sauce over the beef and onions. -
Slow Cook
-
Low: 7–8 hours
-
High: 4–5 hours
Cook until beef is fork-tender.
-
-
Thicken the Gravy (Optional)
Mix cornstarch with water. Stir into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes and cook until thickened. -
Serve
Spoon beef and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
 Notes
-
Sirloin gives a leaner result; chuck steak creates extra tenderness.
-
Onions will break down naturally and flavor the gravy—no need to sauté first.
-
Gravy thickens more as it cools.
Tips for Best Results
-
Don’t overcrowd: Large chunks stay juicier than small pieces.
-
Avoid lifting the lid: Heat loss increases cook time.
-
For deeper flavor: Brown beef briefly in a skillet before slow cooking.
-
Too salty? Add a splash of water or unsalted broth.
 Servings
-
Serves: 6–8 people
-
Serving Size: About 1½ cups beef and gravy
 Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
-
Calories: 390
-
Protein: 38g
-
Fat: 22g
-
Carbohydrates: 6g
-
Fiber: 1g
-
Sodium: 620mg
(Values vary based on cut of beef and gravy thickness.)
 Benefits of This Recipe
-
High in protein for muscle support and fullness
-
Slow cooking enhances tenderness without extra fat
-
Simple ingredients with no preservatives
-
Great for meal prep and reheats beautifully
 Recipe Q & A
Q: Can I use frozen beef?
A: It’s best to thaw first for food safety and even cooking.
Q: Can I make this without broth?
A: Yes—water works, but broth adds much more flavor.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Refrigerate up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I add vegetables?
A: Absolutely—mushrooms, carrots, or potatoes work well.
Q: Is this gluten-free?
A: Yes, if your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free.