Slow Cooker Mississippi Beef Tips & Gravy
Prep time: 10 mins | Cook time: 6–8 hours (Low) | Servings: 6
Description
These beef tips are slow-cooked until they reach melt-in-your-mouth perfection. By using pre-cut beef tips (or cubed chuck roast), you increase the surface area for the ranch seasoning, au jus, and butter to work their magic. The result is a thick, velvety gravy that screams to be served over mashed potatoes.
Ingredients
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2.5 lbs Beef tips (or chuck roast cut into 1.5-inch cubes)
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1 packet (1 oz) Dry Ranch Seasoning mix
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1 packet (1 oz) Au Jus Gravy mix
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1/2 cup (1 stick) Unsalted butter, sliced into tabs
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6–8 Whole Pepperoncini peppers
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1/4 cup Pepperoncini juice (from the jar)
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Optional: 1/2 cup Beef broth (only if you want extra gravy)
Instructions
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Layer the Beef: Place the beef tips in an even layer at the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker.
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Season: Sprinkle the Ranch seasoning and the Au Jus mix evenly over the meat. Do not stir.
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Top it Off: Place the tabs of butter on top of the seasoned meat, then scatter the pepperoncini peppers throughout. Pour the pepperoncini juice (and broth, if using) around the edges.
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Slow Cook: Cover and cook on Low for 7–8 hours or High for 4 hours.
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Finish: Once the meat is tender, give it a gentle stir to incorporate the melted butter and juices into a cohesive gravy. Remove the pepperoncini stems before serving if desired.
Tips for Success
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Don’t Add Salt: Between the ranch and the au jus packets, there is plenty of sodium. Stick to unsalted butter to keep the flavors balanced.
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Searing (Optional): If you have an extra 5 minutes, sear the beef tips in a hot skillet with a splash of oil before putting them in the slow cooker. This adds a deeper, caramelized flavor.
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Thicker Gravy: If you prefer a “stuck-to-the-ribs” thickness, whisk 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Info (Per Serving)
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Calories: 410 kcal
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Protein: 34g
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Fat: 28g
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Carbs: 4g
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Sodium: 1,150mg (Note: This is a high-sodium dish!)
Why You’ll Love It (The Benefits)
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Effortless: No chopping, no sautéing, and minimal cleanup.
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Tender Results: Even cheaper cuts of beef break down beautifully over the long cook time.
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Versatile: It works perfectly over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or even toasted hoagie rolls.
Q&A
Q: Is it spicy? A: Not really! The pepperoncinis provide a “vinegary” tang and a very mild warmth. If you want it spicy, slice the peppers open before adding them.
Q: Can I use a frozen roast? A: It’s safer to thaw the meat first to ensure it reaches a safe cooking temperature quickly enough in the slow cooker.
Q: Can I add vegetables? A: Absolutely. Baby carrots or halved mushrooms hold up great in this gravy. Add them at the beginning with the beef.