There’s something timeless and soul-satisfying about a pot of tender homestyle beef tips simmering away in a Dutch oven. This recipe has been a family favorite in our home for years. Especially on chilly evenings or slow weekends when a hearty, no-fuss meal is just what we need.
The beef turns fall-apart tender, and the savory homemade gravy is perfect over mashed potatoes, noodles, or rice. It’s comfort food at its best. Simple, satisfying, and made with love from pantry staples.
Whether you’re feeding the whole family or just craving a rustic dinner that warms you from the inside out, these tender homestyle beef tips will not disappoint.
What Makes These Beef Tips Melt in Your Mouth?
The secret to melt-in-your-mouth beef tips lies in a combination of the right cut of meat, low and slow cooking, and simple, flavorful ingredients.
By searing the beef first, you lock in juices and build a rich, savory base. Then, as it simmers gently in the Dutch oven, the connective tissue breaks down slowly, transforming even tougher cuts into tender, flavorful bites.
The result is beef so tender, you can cut it with a fork. And a rich, homemade gravy that’s perfect for pouring over your favorite sides. This is homestyle cooking at its most comforting.
Tender Homestyle Beef Tips with Rich Gravy Recipe
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Equipment
Ingredients
- 3 Pounds Beef Stew Meat or sirloin tips
- 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 Medium Onion chopped
- 3 Cloves Garlic minced
- 2 Cups Beef Broth
- 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 Teaspoon Dried Thyme or 1 tbsp fresh
- 1 Teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1 Teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 Teaspoon Instant Coffee optional for a deeper and richer taste
Thickening the Gravy
- 1 Tablespoon Cornstarch
- 2 Tablespoons Water cold
Instructions
- Brown the Beef. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the beef with salt and pepper, then sear in batches until browned on all sides. Don’t overcrowd the pan. Transfer browned meat to a plate.3 Pounds Beef Stew Meat, 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil, Salt and black pepper
- Sauté the Aromatics. In the same pot, reduce heat to medium. Add chopped onions and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.1 Medium Onion, 3 Cloves Garlic
- Deglaze and Simmer. Return the beef to the pot. Add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, onion powder, and garlic powder. Scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pot—they add great flavor!2 Cups Beef Broth, 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce, 1 Teaspoon Dried Thyme, 1 Teaspoon Onion Powder, 1 Teaspoon Garlic Powder, 1 Teaspoon Instant Coffee
- Slow Cook. Bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 2 to 2 ½ hours, or until the beef is fork-tender.
- Thicken the Gravy. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with cold water to make a slurry. Stir into the simmering pot and cook for another 5–10 minutes, until the gravy thickens to your liking. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.1 Tablespoon Cornstarch, 2 Tablespoons Water
- Serve hot over mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or white rice with a side of roasted vegetables or green beans.
Nutrition
Recipe Tips
- Best Cut of Beef. Sirloin tips or chuck roast work beautifully. Even stew meat becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender with this slow cook method.
- Low and Slow. Don’t rush the cook time—low and slow makes the meat incredibly tender and flavorful.
- For Extra Flavor. Add a splash of red wine with the broth for depth, or toss in a bay leaf while it simmers.
- Want it Creamier? Stir in a tablespoon of sour cream or heavy cream at the end for a creamy gravy twist.
Beef Broth Substitutes
1. Water + Better Than Bouillon or Bouillon Cubes
- Ratio: 1 teaspoon bouillon paste or 1 cube per 1 cup hot water
- This is one of the best and most flavorful substitutes. Use it just like broth in the recipe.
2. Water + Worcestershire Sauce + Soy Sauce
- For 1 cup substitute:
Mix 1 cup hot water with- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon soy sauce
- This combo adds that deep umami flavor similar to beef broth.
3. Vegetable Broth
- Works well if you’re aiming to cut down on red meat-based products but still want a savory profile. The gravy will be slightly lighter but still delicious.
4. Mushroom Broth or Mushroom Stock
- Earthy and rich, mushroom broth is a fantastic alternative and naturally savory. Great for those who want depth without beef.
5. Chicken Broth (Low-Sodium Preferred)
- Slightly lighter in flavor, but still works in a pinch. You may want to add a little Worcestershire or soy sauce to deepen the flavor.
Optional Flavor Boosts
- A splash of red wine or coffee adds a deep, rich background note.
- Add extra onions, garlic, or herbs (like thyme or rosemary) to enhance complexity.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer. Beef tips and gravy freeze well! Cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Reheating. Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the gravy is too thick.
Serving Suggestions
- Mashed Potatoes. A classic match made in comfort food heaven.
- Egg Noodles. Catch all that rich gravy in every bite.
- Buttered Rice. A simple, no-fuss base for busy nights.
- Biscuits or Crusty Bread. To mop up every drop!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is the perfect blend of simple ingredients and slow-cooked comfort. It doesn’t require fancy equipment. Just your Dutch oven, a few pantry staples, and a little time. It’s a tried-and-true homestead favorite that never goes out of style. Plus, it fills your kitchen with the most amazing aroma while it cooks.
easy and delicious. slow cooking magic.