Crockpot Beef Tips and Gravy
Crockpot Beef Tips and Gravy – Tender Slow Cooker Beef with Mushroom Gravy
These Crockpot Beef Tips and Gravy are incredibly tender, juicy, and simmered in a rich, savory homemade mushroom gravy! Made with chunks of beef, fresh mushrooms, onions, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, and delicious seasonings, this easy slow cooker beef recipe is the ultimate comfort food dinner.
If you’re looking for an easy crockpot beef dinner that practically cooks itself, these slow cooker beef tips and gravy are a wonderful recipe to make.
There’s something so comforting about tender pieces of beef simmered in a rich brown gravy, especially when they’re served over a big helping of creamy mashed potatoes.
And this recipe is absolutely delicious!
The beef cooks slowly in a flavorful mixture of beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, onions, mushrooms, and seasonings until it’s wonderfully tender.
As everything cooks together, the mushrooms and onions soften and release their delicious flavors into the gravy.
Then, toward the end of cooking, the sauce is thickened into a rich, silky mushroom gravy that coats every piece of beef.
The result is a hearty, comforting dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights, cozy Sunday suppers, or whenever you’re craving a delicious homemade meal.
Serve these Crockpot Beef Tips and Gravy over mashed potatoes, buttery egg noodles, or fluffy white rice for a dinner the whole family will love.
Why You’ll Love These Crockpot Beef Tips and Gravy
- Incredibly tender beef: Slow cooking turns beef chuck roast into delicious, fork-tender pieces.
- Rich homemade mushroom gravy: Fresh mushrooms, onions, garlic, and beef broth create wonderful flavor.
- Easy slow cooker recipe: The crockpot does most of the work.
- No canned soup required: The gravy is made with simple ingredients.
- Perfect comfort food: Delicious served over mashed potatoes, noodles, or rice.
- Family-friendly dinner: A hearty meal that’s satisfying and flavorful.
- Great for busy days: Prepare everything in the morning and let it cook.
- Wonderful leftovers: The beef and gravy reheat beautifully.
Crockpot Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 7–8 hours on LOW or 4–5 hours on HIGH
Total Time: Approximately 7 hours 20 minutes to 8 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
For the Beef Tips
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1 1/2-inch cubes
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 8 ounces fresh baby bella mushrooms, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 Tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 Tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried minced onion
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, optional
- 1 Tablespoon butter
For Thickening the Gravy
- 3 Tablespoons cornstarch
- 3 Tablespoons cold water
For Serving
- Creamy mashed potatoes, cooked egg noodles, or white rice
- Fresh chopped parsley, optional
How to Make Crockpot Beef Tips and Gravy
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Place the beef chuck roast on a cutting board.
Using a sharp knife, cut the beef into approximately 1 1/2-inch cubes.
Trim away any large pieces of excess fat.
Pat the beef dry with paper towels.
Season with salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the beef in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet.
Sear for approximately 2 minutes per side, just until the outside develops a beautiful golden-brown crust.
The beef does not need to cook all the way through.
Browning adds wonderful flavor to the finished gravy.
Transfer the browned beef to the crockpot.
Note: If you’re short on time, you can skip browning the beef and add it directly to the slow cooker. The recipe will still work, although browning gives the gravy a richer flavor.
Step 3: Add the Mushrooms and Onions
Add the diced onion and sliced baby bella mushrooms to the crockpot.
Spread them evenly around the beef.
As they cook, the mushrooms and onions will soften and release their flavors into the gravy.
Step 4: Add the Garlic
Sprinkle the minced garlic over the beef and vegetables.
Fresh garlic adds wonderful flavor to the slow cooker gravy.
Step 5: Prepare the Gravy Mixture
In a medium mixing bowl, combine:
- Beef broth
- Worcestershire sauce
- Tomato paste
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Dried minced onion
- Thyme
- Smoked paprika
- Dijon mustard, if using
Whisk until everything is well combined and the tomato paste is dissolved.
Step 6: Pour the Gravy Over the Beef
Pour the seasoned beef broth mixture over the beef, mushrooms, and onions.
Gently stir to distribute the ingredients.
Add the Tablespoon of butter on top.
The butter will melt into the sauce as everything cooks.
Step 7: Slow Cook Until Tender
Place the lid on the crockpot.
Cook on LOW for approximately 7–8 hours or HIGH for approximately 4–5 hours, until the beef is fork-tender.
Cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker and the size of the beef pieces.
For the most tender results, I recommend cooking on LOW.
The beef should be tender enough to easily pull apart with a fork.
If it’s still chewy, it likely needs additional cooking time.
Step 8: Thicken the Mushroom Gravy
Approximately 20–30 minutes before serving, combine the cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl.
Whisk until smooth.
Slowly pour the cornstarch mixture into the hot liquid in the crockpot, stirring gently.
Try not to break apart the tender beef.
Replace the lid and turn the slow cooker to HIGH.
Cook for approximately 15–30 minutes, or until the gravy thickens.
The gravy should become rich, smooth, and thick enough to coat the beef.
If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can add another small cornstarch slurry.
Step 9: Taste and Adjust the Seasonings
Taste the gravy and adjust the salt and pepper if needed.
Because beef broth and Worcestershire sauce contain salt, it’s best to make final seasoning adjustments after cooking.
For an extra-rich finish, stir in a small additional pat of butter.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Spoon the tender beef tips and mushroom gravy over creamy mashed potatoes, buttery egg noodles, or fluffy white rice.
Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Serve warm and enjoy!
Jennie’s Thoughts
I absolutely love a good crockpot dinner, especially when it’s something as comforting and delicious as these Crockpot Beef Tips and Gravy.
There’s just something wonderful about tender chunks of beef simmered all day in a rich, savory mushroom gravy.
And I think this is one of those recipes that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner.
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how tender the beef becomes.
Using beef chuck roast makes such a difference because it has enough marbling and connective tissue to become wonderfully tender during slow cooking.
And the gravy is absolutely delicious!
I love adding fresh baby bella mushrooms, onions, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce.
The mushrooms give the gravy such a rich, earthy flavor, while the Worcestershire sauce adds that wonderful savory depth.
I also like adding a little tomato paste.
You don’t really taste the tomato, but it adds richness and helps deepen the flavor of the brown gravy.
And the combination of garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and smoked paprika makes everything taste so delicious.
I especially love that this recipe doesn’t require canned cream of mushroom soup.
The gravy is made with beef broth and fresh ingredients, so you get a wonderful homemade flavor.
Then, once the beef is tender, you simply thicken the cooking liquid with a little cornstarch.
It creates a beautiful, rich mushroom gravy that coats every piece of beef.
And honestly, I think the gravy is just as delicious as the beef!
I would serve this over a big helping of creamy mashed potatoes.
The potatoes soak up all that wonderful mushroom gravy, and it’s such a comforting combination.
But these beef tips are also delicious over buttery egg noodles or fluffy white rice.
This is the kind of dinner that’s wonderful for busy days because you can get everything into the slow cooker and let it cook while you take care of other things.
And when dinner time comes around, you have a hearty homemade meal waiting for you.
If you love easy crockpot comfort food recipes, these Crockpot Beef Tips and Gravy are a delicious addition to your dinner rotation.
What Are Beef Tips?
Beef tips are bite-sized pieces of beef that are typically simmered or slow-cooked until tender.
They’re often served in a rich brown gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
Some beef tips recipes use sirloin, while others use chuck roast or stew meat.
For slow cooker beef tips, I especially like using chuck roast because it becomes incredibly tender when cooked low and slow.
The finished beef should be juicy, flavorful, and easy to cut with a fork.
What Is the Best Beef for Crockpot Beef Tips?
Choosing the right cut of beef makes a big difference.
Beef Chuck Roast
Beef chuck roast is my first choice for this recipe.
It has beautiful marbling and connective tissue that breaks down during slow cooking.
The result is tender, juicy beef with wonderful flavor.
Beef Stew Meat
Precut beef stew meat is another convenient option.
It’s easy to use because the beef is already cut into pieces.
However, stew meat can contain different cuts of beef, so cooking times and tenderness may vary.
Sirloin Steak
Sirloin can also be used, although it’s leaner than chuck roast.
Because sirloin is naturally more tender and contains less connective tissue, it doesn’t require the same long cooking time.
For this particular crockpot recipe, chuck roast is the best choice.
How to Make the Best Mushroom Gravy
The secret to a delicious mushroom gravy is building layers of flavor.
Fresh mushrooms: Baby bella mushrooms add a rich, earthy flavor.
Onions: Diced onions soften as they cook and add a little natural sweetness.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the gravy a wonderful savory aroma.
Beef broth: Creates the base of the gravy.
Worcestershire sauce: Adds deep, savory umami flavor.
Tomato paste: Adds richness and color without making the gravy taste like tomatoes.
Thyme: Complements the mushrooms and beef beautifully.
Butter: Adds richness and a smooth finish.
Cornstarch: Thickens the cooking liquid into a silky gravy.
Together, these ingredients create a delicious homemade mushroom gravy that’s perfect for beef tips.
Do You Have to Brown Beef Before Putting It in the Crockpot?
No, but I recommend it when you have time.
Browning the beef creates a flavorful crust and adds extra richness to the gravy.
When the beef is seared in a hot skillet, the outside develops a deep golden-brown color.
This adds wonderful flavor to the finished dish.
However, if you’re in a hurry, you can skip this step.
Simply add the raw beef directly to the crockpot with the remaining ingredients and cook as directed.
The beef will still become tender during slow cooking.
Tips for the Best Crockpot Beef Tips and Gravy
Use chuck roast. It’s one of the best cuts for tender slow cooker beef.
Cut the beef into even pieces. This helps everything cook at the same rate.
Brown the beef first. Searing adds wonderful flavor.
Use fresh mushrooms. Baby bella mushrooms create a rich, savory gravy.
Don’t add too much liquid. The beef, mushrooms, and onions release moisture as they cook.
Cook on LOW when possible. Slow, gentle cooking helps the chuck roast become tender.
Don’t lift the lid frequently. Keeping the lid closed helps maintain a consistent cooking temperature.
Wait to thicken the gravy. Add the cornstarch slurry near the end of cooking.
Taste before adding extra salt. Broth and Worcestershire sauce already contain sodium.
Let the beef cook until fork-tender. If the beef is still chewy, it may need more time.
Crockpot Beef Tips and Gravy Variations
Crockpot Beef Tips and Onion Gravy
Omit the mushrooms and use two large onions instead.
The onions will soften into a rich, savory brown gravy.
Crockpot Beef Tips with Creamy Mushroom Gravy
Stir in 1/3 cup heavy cream during the final 20 minutes of cooking.
This creates a richer, creamier mushroom gravy.
Garlic Butter Beef Tips
Add two additional cloves of garlic and another Tablespoon of butter.
Crockpot Beef Tips with Red Wine
Replace 1/2 cup of the beef broth with 1/2 cup dry red wine.
For the best flavor, simmer the wine briefly in the skillet after browning the beef, then add it to the slow cooker.
Crockpot Beef Tips with Onion Soup Mix
Add one packet of dry onion soup mix for an extra-savory variation.
Reduce the added salt and consider using low-sodium beef broth.
Crockpot Beef Tips with Cream of Mushroom Soup
For a shortcut version, add one can of condensed cream of mushroom soup and reduce the beef broth to approximately 1 cup.
The gravy will be creamier and thicker.
Peppercorn Beef Tips and Gravy
Add an additional teaspoon of freshly cracked black pepper for a bold steakhouse-style flavor.
What to Serve with Crockpot Beef Tips and Gravy
These tender beef tips are delicious with so many comforting side dishes.
Some of my favorite serving ideas include:
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes
- Buttery Egg Noodles
- Fluffy White Rice
- Garlic Butter Mashed Potatoes
- Homemade Dinner Rolls
- Garlic Parmesan Green Beans
- Honey Butter Carrots
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Southern Green Beans
- Roasted Asparagus
- Buttermilk Biscuits
- Creamed Corn
For a classic comfort food dinner, serve the beef tips over creamy mashed potatoes with green beans and warm dinner rolls.
The mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up all that rich mushroom gravy.
Can You Make Crockpot Beef Tips and Gravy Ahead of Time?
Absolutely!
This is a wonderful make-ahead dinner.
You can cut the beef, slice the mushrooms, dice the onion, and measure the seasonings the night before.
Store the prepared ingredients in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator.
When you’re ready to cook, add everything to the crockpot and follow the recipe directions.
You can also cook the entire recipe ahead of time.
Refrigerate the finished beef tips and gravy, then reheat gently before serving.
The flavors are delicious the next day.
How to Store Leftover Beef Tips and Gravy
Allow leftovers to cool slightly.
Transfer the beef tips and gravy to shallow, airtight containers and refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Keep the beef covered in gravy to help prevent it from drying out.
How to Reheat Crockpot Beef Tips
Place the leftover beef tips and gravy in a saucepan over medium-low heat.
Add a splash of beef broth or water if the gravy has thickened too much.
Cover and heat gently, stirring occasionally.
Reheat leftovers to an internal temperature of 165°F.
You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.
Can You Freeze Crockpot Beef Tips and Gravy?
Yes!
These beef tips freeze beautifully.
Allow the finished recipe to cool completely.
Transfer to freezer-safe containers or freezer bags.
Freeze for up to 2–3 months for the best quality.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little beef broth if needed.
The gravy may thicken during storage, but it should loosen as it warms.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are Crockpot Beef Tips and Gravy?
Crockpot beef tips and gravy are tender pieces of beef slow-cooked in a savory brown gravy, often with mushrooms, onions, and seasonings.
What Cut of Beef Is Best for Beef Tips?
Chuck roast is one of the best choices for slow cooker beef tips because it becomes tender and flavorful during long cooking.
Can I Use Stew Meat?
Yes! Precut stew meat works well, although the tenderness may vary depending on the cuts included.
How Long Do Beef Tips Take in the Crockpot?
Beef tips made with chuck roast generally take approximately 7–8 hours on LOW or 4–5 hours on HIGH, depending on the slow cooker and the size of the beef pieces.
Why Are My Beef Tips Tough?
If you’re using chuck roast and the beef is still tough, it may need more cooking time.
Continue cooking until the beef becomes fork-tender.
Do I Have to Brown the Beef?
No. Browning is optional, but it adds wonderful flavor.
Can I Use Frozen Beef?
For food safety, thaw frozen beef in the refrigerator before placing it in the slow cooker.
Can I Make Beef Tips Without Mushrooms?
Absolutely! Simply omit the mushrooms or replace them with additional onions.
Can I Use Cream of Mushroom Soup?
Yes! You can use condensed cream of mushroom soup for a shortcut variation.
How Do You Thicken Crockpot Beef Gravy?
Mix cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the hot cooking liquid near the end of cooking.
Allow the gravy to simmer until thickened.
Can I Serve Beef Tips Over Rice?
Yes! Beef tips and mushroom gravy are delicious over white rice.
Can I Serve Beef Tips Over Egg Noodles?
Absolutely! Buttery egg noodles are one of the best ways to serve this recipe.
More Delicious Crockpot Beef Recipes
If you love these Crockpot Beef Tips and Gravy, be sure to try these other comforting dinner ideas:
- Slow Cooker Pot Roast
- Crockpot Beef Stew
- Crockpot Steak Bites and Gravy
- Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak
- Crockpot French Onion Beef
- Crockpot Beef Stroganoff
- Slow Cooker Mississippi Pot Roast
- Crockpot Garlic Butter Steak Bites
- Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles
- Crockpot Mushroom Beef Roast
Final Thoughts
These Crockpot Beef Tips and Gravy are a delicious, comforting slow cooker dinner made with tender chunks of beef and rich homemade mushroom gravy.
The combination of fresh mushrooms, onions, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, and savory seasonings creates incredible flavor.
And because everything cooks low and slow in the crockpot, the beef becomes wonderfully tender.
Whether you’re serving these beef tips over creamy mashed potatoes, buttery egg noodles, or fluffy white rice, this easy crockpot recipe is perfect for a hearty family dinner.
Save this delicious Crockpot Beef Tips and Gravy recipe for later!
