BEEF TIPS WITH MUSHROOM GRAVY

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Introduction

Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners and family meals. The tender beef tips are seared to golden perfection, then simmered in a rich, savory mushroom gravy that’s thick, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. The earthy mushrooms, combined with the deep, savory flavor of the beef, create a dish that feels both elegant and homey, making it a real crowd-pleaser.

This dish has become a staple in my kitchen. I remember making it for the first time during a chilly evening, and the whole house was filled with the aroma of slow-cooked beef and earthy mushrooms. The gravy, with its rich layers of flavor, clings to the beef, creating a comforting, melt-in-your-mouth experience. It’s a simple yet luxurious dish that’s both filling and indulgent.

Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy is great for those nights when you want something warm and satisfying. It pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles, allowing you to soak up every last bit of that delicious gravy. If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl, this one will definitely hit the spot!

Perfect for:

  • Weeknight dinners
  • Comfort food cravings
  • Special occasion meals
  • Family-friendly meals
  • Cozy gatherings

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy will become your go-to dish:

  • Tender Beef: The beef tips are seared to perfection, creating a flavorful crust while remaining tender and juicy on the inside.
  • Rich Mushroom Gravy: The creamy gravy, made with mushrooms and beef broth, is savory and full of depth.
  • Comforting: This dish is the ultimate comfort food—hearty, rich, and satisfying.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in under 45 minutes, it’s perfect for busy nights when you want a delicious, homemade meal.
  • Versatile: Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta for a complete meal.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 30 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 500-550 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 40g, Carbs: 12g, Fat: 35g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy:

  • 1 lb beef tips (sirloin or stew meat)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, sliced
  • 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Beef:

  1. Season the Beef: Season the beef tips with salt and pepper on all sides.
  2. Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef tips and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef tips from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Mushroom Gravy:

  1. Sauté the Onion and Mushrooms: In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and mushrooms. Cook over medium heat until the onions are softened and the mushrooms release their moisture, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the onion and mushroom mixture. Stir to combine and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
  4. Add the Liquids: Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring to ensure there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  5. Stir in Cream and Worcestershire Sauce: Add the heavy cream and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet, and continue to simmer the gravy until it thickens, about 5 minutes.

Combine Beef and Gravy:

  1. Return the Beef to the Skillet: Add the seared beef tips back into the skillet, along with any juices that have accumulated. Stir to coat the beef in the gravy.
  2. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the beef simmer in the gravy for 10-15 minutes, until the beef is tender and the flavors meld together.
  3. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately.

How to Serve

Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy can be served in several ways to enhance its flavor and presentation:

  • Over Mashed Potatoes: Spoon the beef and gravy over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes for a classic comfort food combo.
  • With Rice: Serve the beef tips over fluffy white or brown rice to absorb the rich gravy.
  • With Egg Noodles: Pair the dish with buttery egg noodles for a delicious, hearty meal.
  • With Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up the flavorful gravy.
  • As a Casserole: For a twist, layer the beef and gravy over a layer of sautéed vegetables or potatoes and bake for a casserole-style dish.

Additional Tips

  • Beef Cuts: For the most tender beef tips, use cuts like sirloin, chuck, or stew meat.
  • Use Fresh Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms will yield a better texture and flavor compared to canned mushrooms.
  • Thicken the Gravy: If the gravy isn’t thick enough, let it simmer for longer or add an extra tablespoon of flour.
  • Low and Slow Cooking: If you have more time, you can simmer the beef in the gravy for longer (up to an hour) to achieve even more tender beef.
  • Customize the Gravy: Add a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar for an extra layer of flavor in the gravy.

Recipe Variations

  1. Spicy Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño for a spicy kick.
  2. Creamy Garlic Beef Tips: Add a tablespoon of garlic paste or roasted garlic for a more robust garlic flavor in the gravy.
  3. Beef Tips with Mushroom and Onion Gravy: Add more onions for an extra layer of sweetness in the gravy.
  4. Vegetarian Mushroom Gravy: Skip the beef tips and use vegetable broth and mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
  5. Red Wine Gravy: Add a splash of red wine to the gravy for a deeper, richer flavor.
  6. Herbed Gravy: Add rosemary, sage, or oregano to the gravy for a herbed twist.
  7. Mushroom and Spinach Beef Tips: Stir in fresh spinach just before serving for added greens and flavor.
  8. Slow Cooker Beef Tips: Transfer the beef tips and gravy ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours for an easy, hands-off version.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: This dish freezes well. Store the beef tips and mushroom gravy in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little broth if needed.
  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to keep the gravy smooth.

Special Equipment

  1. Large Skillet: Essential for searing the beef and making the gravy.
  2. Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring the gravy and preventing it from sticking to the pan.
  3. Chef’s Knife: Perfect for slicing the beef and vegetables.
  4. Cutting Board: A sturdy board for chopping onions, mushrooms, and garlic.
  5. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure precise measurements for the ingredients.
  6. Tongs: Useful for handling the beef tips when searing them.
  7. Whisk: Helps create a smooth gravy without lumps.
  8. Serving Plates: Enhance the presentation when serving the dish.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
    Yes, cuts like chuck, sirloin, or stew meat are perfect for this dish.
  2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
    Yes, you can prepare the beef tips and gravy and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
  3. Can I use a different type of mushrooms?
    Absolutely! Button mushrooms, cremini, or portobello mushrooms all work well in this recipe.
  4. How do I make the gravy thicker?
    If the gravy is too thin, you can let it simmer longer or add an additional tablespoon of flour to thicken it up.
  5. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
    Yes, you can cook the beef tips and gravy in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours for a hands-off approach.
  6. Can I use a dairy-free alternative for the cream?
    Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative for a lighter version.
  7. What can I serve this dish with?
    This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or crusty bread.
  8. Can I use frozen beef tips?
    Yes, you can use frozen beef tips. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for the best results.
  9. How do I store leftovers?
    Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
  10. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
    Yes, you can use gluten-free flour for the roux to make this dish gluten-free.

Conclusion

Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy is a rich, comforting dish that will satisfy even the heartiest of appetites. The tender beef tips, simmered to perfection, absorb the deep, savory flavors of the mushroom gravy, creating a harmonious balance of taste and texture. Each bite is a comforting reminder of home-cooked goodness, with the umami of the mushrooms adding layers of complexity to the dish.

What truly sets this recipe apart is its versatility. Whether served over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles, the flavorful gravy makes it an ideal companion to a variety of side dishes, transforming any meal into something special.

Perfect for cozy dinners, family gatherings, or when you want to impress your guests, Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy is sure to become a go-to favorite in your culinary rotation. I can’t wait for you to experience the deliciousness of this dish! Be sure to share your creations and tag me—I love seeing your take on this comfort food classic! Enjoy every savory bite!

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