Imagine tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef tips simmering in a rich mushroom gravy, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. The beef is perfectly seared to lock in flavor, while cremini mushrooms add a deep, earthy richness to the sauce. This savory dish, with its layers of seasoning and herbs, offers the ultimate comfort food experience. Whether you serve it over creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or egg noodles, the combination of juicy beef and velvety gravy creates a satisfying, hearty meal.

This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to prepare it in a slow cooker or Instant Pot for maximum convenience. With just a few simple ingredients like sirloin beef tips, mushrooms, garlic, thyme, and beef stock, you’ll have a dish that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours, even if it took minimal effort. The cooking process ensures the beef becomes tender and the gravy thickens perfectly, making this a go-to meal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

Why you’ll love this recipe? It’s easy to prepare, whether you prefer a slow cooker or an Instant Pot. With minimal hands-on time, it’s ideal for meal prepping, offering a comforting and satisfying dinner for the whole family.

Ingredients Breakdown

This recipe uses carefully selected ingredients to ensure tender beef tips and a flavorful mushroom gravy that will please any palate. Let’s break down the key components:

Beef Tips:
Sirloin is the perfect cut for this dish because it’s lean yet tender when cooked slowly. Unlike tougher cuts, sirloin doesn’t require extensive cooking time to become soft and flavorful. It holds up well in both slow cooker and Instant Pot preparations, resulting in beef that easily melts in your mouth.

Mushrooms:
Cremini mushrooms, also known as baby bella mushrooms, are slightly more mature than white mushrooms and bring a deeper, earthier flavor to the dish. They complement the richness of the beef, while their meaty texture pairs perfectly with the thick, savory gravy.

Seasonings:
Garlic powder and onion powder form the base of the seasoning, providing depth without overpowering the other flavors. Dried thyme and rosemary add herbal notes that bring balance and complexity, helping the dish feel rich without being heavy. These herbs enhance the meatiness and blend seamlessly with the gravy.

Pepperoncinis:
The addition of pepperoncinis is a delightful twist. These mildly spicy, tangy peppers cut through the richness of the dish, adding a slight zing that balances out the creamy, savory gravy.

Beef Stock and Bouillon:
Beef stock creates the base for the gravy, and the bouillon cube intensifies the flavor. Together, they build a rich and savory gravy that wraps the beef and mushrooms in comforting warmth.

Optional Variations:

Swap sirloin for chuck roast if you prefer a fattier cut with even more tenderness.
Fresh garlic can be used for a bolder flavor, and adding red wine offers depth to the gravy, giving it a richer finish.

Ingredient Substitutes for Dietary Preferences:

For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour and cornstarch.
For a vegetarian version, substitute plant-based beef and use vegetable stock in place of beef stock.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Preparing the Beef

Seasoning and Coating the Beef Tips:
Begin by generously seasoning the beef tips with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. This initial seasoning penetrates the meat and enhances its flavor during cooking. Once seasoned, toss the beef tips in all-purpose flour until each piece is well coated. The flour serves two important purposes: it helps the beef develop a crispy exterior during searing and also acts as a thickening agent for the gravy later on. As the flour cooks, it binds with the fat and liquid from the beef and stock, ensuring a rich, velvety gravy.

Searing the Beef

The Importance of Searing:
Searing the beef tips before slow-cooking or pressure-cooking is a crucial step that should not be skipped. Searing caramelizes the surface of the meat, creating a golden-brown crust that adds depth and complexity to the overall flavor of the dish. This Maillard reaction (the browning process) produces flavor compounds that you simply can’t achieve without high heat. To get the best sear, heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat, and add the beef tips in small batches. Overcrowding the pan will cause the beef to steam rather than sear, so give each piece space to brown evenly on all sides. Once seared, remove the beef and set it aside.

Cooking the Onions

Deglazing and Enhancing Flavor:
After the beef is seared, it’s time to cook the onions. Add the diced onions to the same skillet, using the rendered fat and remaining butter. Sauté for about two minutes until the onions begin to soften. As they cook, they will release moisture, which helps deglaze the pan—scraping up the flavorful browned bits left behind by the beef. These bits, known as fond, are packed with flavor and are essential for building a rich, savory base for the gravy. The onions will absorb the beefy flavor, adding sweetness and complexity to the dish.

Two Cooking Methods: Slow Cooker vs. Instant Pot

Slow Cooker Method:

Transferring to the Slow Cooker:
After searing the beef and cooking the onions, transfer both to the slow cooker. Add the sliced cremini mushrooms, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, rosemary, beef bouillon cube, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaf, and pepperoncinis. Pour in the beef stock, making sure the liquid covers most of the ingredients. Stir everything gently to combine.
Choosing Cooking Time:
Set the slow cooker to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Cooking on low heat allows the beef to slowly break down, resulting in ultra-tender pieces. The longer cooking time also lets the flavors meld together beautifully. If you’re in a hurry, the high setting will also yield tender results, but with slightly less flavor development.
Finishing the Dish:
About 30 minutes before serving, prepare a cornstarch slurry (mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of water) and stir it into the slow cooker to thicken the gravy. Allow the mixture to cook for the remaining time, and the gravy will become luscious and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Instant Pot Method:

Speed and Convenience:
After searing the beef and sautéing the onions using the Instant Pot’s ‘Sauté’ function, add the mushrooms, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, bouillon cube, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaf, pepperoncinis, and beef stock directly into the pot.
Setting the Pressure:
Secure the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to ‘Sealing,’ and select the ‘Meat/Stew’ function. Set the pressure to high and cook for 35 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, let the pressure naturally release for 10 minutes, then carefully switch the valve to venting to release any remaining pressure.
Safety Tips:
Always make sure to follow the safety guidelines when using the Instant Pot, particularly when switching the valve to venting. Use a kitchen towel or wooden spoon to avoid direct contact with the steam, which can be very hot.
Thickening in the Instant Pot:
After the pressure has been released, return the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until the gravy reaches your desired thickness. If the gravy is too thin, you can add more cornstarch slurry; if too thick, stir in a bit of beef stock to loosen it up.

Thickening the Gravy

Using Cornstarch Slurry:
To thicken the gravy, you’ll use a cornstarch slurry—a simple mixture of cornstarch and water that acts as a thickening agent when added to hot liquids. Stir the slurry into the cooking liquid, and as it heats, the cornstarch will begin to activate, transforming the broth into a smooth, glossy gravy. If you prefer a thicker gravy, add more cornstarch slurry, a little at a time, while continuously stirring. On the other hand, if the gravy is too thick, simply dilute it with a bit more beef stock or water until you reach your preferred consistency. Be sure to taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dish Pairings:

Mashed Potatoes:
There’s nothing quite like the combination of creamy mashed potatoes and rich beef gravy. The smooth, buttery texture of the mashed potatoes serves as the perfect canvas for the savory mushroom gravy, soaking up every bit of flavor while adding a comforting, hearty base to the meal.

Rice:
For a simpler side, fluffy white or brown rice provides a neutral backdrop that lets the beef tips and gravy shine. The rice absorbs the gravy, giving you each bite with balanced flavors while keeping the meal light and easy.

Egg Noodles:
Thick, egg noodles are a classic pairing with beef tips, adding a satisfying, chewy texture that complements the tender beef and smooth gravy. The noodles hold up well under the weight of the sauce, making this option rich and hearty.

Optional Garnishes:
Finish the dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or thyme. The bright, fresh herbs cut through the richness of the gravy, adding a pop of color and flavor to each bite.

Leftover Ideas:
Reheat leftovers in a skillet or microwave with a splash of beef stock to loosen the gravy. Serve them in a sandwich with crusty bread or spoon the beef and gravy over toasted bread for an open-faced sandwich. These options create a comforting meal with minimal effort.

Tips for Success

Best Beef Cuts:
For the most tender beef tips, choose cuts like sirloin, which cook down to a melt-in-your-mouth texture without becoming overly fatty. Chuck roast is another great option, especially for slow cooking, as it becomes incredibly tender when simmered over time. Avoid leaner cuts like round steak, which can become tough.

Searing Tips:
To achieve the best sear, make sure the beef is dry before adding it to a hot pan. Pat the meat with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, and avoid overcrowding the pan, as this causes steaming instead of browning. Sear in batches to ensure each piece develops a golden crust that locks in flavor.

Gravy Consistency:
For a smooth, rich gravy, control the amount of liquid carefully. If your gravy is too thin, add a cornstarch slurry (2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 3 tablespoons water) to thicken it. If it becomes too thick, stir in more beef stock until the desired consistency is reached. Simmer briefly after adjusting to let the flavors meld.

Adjusting Flavor:
Always taste the gravy before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. Worcestershire sauce adds depth and umami, while salt and freshly ground pepper enhance the overall flavor. For more tang, increase the amount of pepperoncinis or add a splash of vinegar.

Nutritional Information and Meal Planning

Caloric Breakdown:
For a typical serving of beef tips with mushroom gravy (based on 4 servings), the nutritional values are estimated as follows:

Calories: ~450-500 kcal
Protein: ~35-40g
Carbohydrates: ~15-20g (from flour, cornstarch, and optional sides)
Fats: ~20-25g (from butter, beef, and cooking oil)

This will vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes, especially if served over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.

Meal Planning Tips:

Preparing in Bulk for Meal Prep:
This recipe is perfect for meal prepping, as the flavors only deepen after resting in the fridge. Prepare a large batch at the beginning of the week, portioning it into airtight containers alongside your choice of sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months for future meals.

Doubling the Recipe for Large Gatherings:
To make this dish for a crowd, simply double all the ingredients, ensuring your slow cooker or Instant Pot is large enough to accommodate the increased volume. For a slow cooker, you may need to extend the cooking time by an additional hour on low. This dish is ideal for entertaining because it can be prepared ahead of time and reheats well, making serving stress-free.

Recipe Variations and Customizations

Vegetarian Options:
To make this dish vegetarian, simply swap the beef tips for plant-based beef alternatives, which can be found in most grocery stores. These alternatives often mimic the texture and flavor of real beef while being entirely meat-free. Opt for hearty mushrooms, such as portobello or shiitake, to add even more texture and flavor. For the gravy, replace beef stock with a rich vegetable stock to maintain a savory base. The combination of plant-based beef and mushrooms will give you a satisfying, meatless version of this comforting dish.

Dairy-Free and Gluten-Free Adjustments:
For a dairy-free version, replace the butter with a neutral-flavored oil like olive or vegetable oil for searing the beef and sautéing the onions. This keeps the dish flavorful without the use of dairy. To make the recipe gluten-free, simply substitute regular flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour for coating the beef tips. Also, ensure your beef stock is gluten-free, as some store-bought varieties may contain gluten. Cornstarch, which is naturally gluten-free, can be used to thicken the gravy, making it safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

Spicy Variations:
If you prefer a spicier dish, there are several ways to kick up the heat in this recipe. Increase the number of pepperoncinis or use a spicier variety to add a tangy, fiery twist. You can also stir in some crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper during cooking to infuse the dish with a subtle, slow-building heat. For an extra bold flavor, add a dash of your favorite hot sauce right at the end of cooking. Whether you prefer mild or spicy, these variations can be easily adjusted to suit your taste.

These customizations make the dish versatile for a variety of dietary needs and flavor preferences, ensuring everyone can enjoy this comforting meal.

Wine and Drink Pairings

Best Wine Pairings:
When serving beef tips with mushroom gravy, a rich, bold red wine is a perfect match. Cabernet Sauvignon is an excellent choice because its robust tannins and dark fruit flavors complement the savory, hearty nature of the dish. The wine’s structure helps cut through the richness of the gravy. Another great option is Merlot, which offers a softer, rounder flavor profile with notes of plum and blackberry that pair beautifully with the earthy mushrooms and tender beef. If you prefer white wine, opt for a full-bodied Chardonnay. Its creamy texture and slight oakiness can stand up to the richness of the gravy, providing a pleasant balance.

Non-Alcoholic Drink Options:
For a non-alcoholic option, consider serving sparkling water with lemon. The effervescence and citrus notes offer a refreshing contrast to the heaviness of the meal, cleansing the palate between bites. Another excellent choice is herbal iced tea, particularly flavors like mint or chamomile, which provide a subtle sweetness and refreshing finish that pairs well with the rich flavors of beef and gravy. These drinks are light, palate-cleansing options that complement the dish without overpowering its savory notes.

Common Questions About Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy

Can I make this recipe without mushrooms?
Yes, you can easily make this dish without mushrooms. If you prefer not to use mushrooms, you can substitute them with extra onions, which will add sweetness and depth to the gravy. Other great vegetable alternatives include diced bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini, which will provide texture and balance to the richness of the beef and gravy.

What other types of beef can I use for this recipe?
While sirloin is the recommended cut for tenderness, you can also use other cuts of beef. Chuck roast is an excellent alternative; it’s fattier and will break down beautifully during slow cooking, resulting in tender, flavorful bites. Stew meat, typically a mix of beef cuts, also works well, though it may require a longer cooking time for tenderness. For a more upscale option, filet tips offer a lean, buttery texture.

How do I thicken the gravy if it’s too thin?
To thicken a thin gravy, you can add more cornstarch slurry. Simply mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the gravy while it’s simmering. If you prefer not to use cornstarch, reduce the gravy by simmering it uncovered for a few extra minutes until it reaches the desired consistency.

Can I freeze beef tips and mushroom gravy?
Yes, this dish freezes well. To store, let the beef tips and gravy cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef stock to loosen the gravy as needed.

How can I make this dish spicier or more flavorful?
To add more heat, increase the amount of pepperoncinis or add crushed red pepper flakes. For a smoky flavor boost, sprinkle in a bit of smoked paprika or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. These adjustments can easily be made to match your personal taste preferences.

Conclusion

Final Thoughts:
Beef tips with mushroom gravy is a comforting, versatile dish that’s easy to prepare in either a slow cooker or Instant Pot. The recipe’s rich flavors and tender beef make it perfect for family dinners or meal prepping. Whether you serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles, this dish is sure to satisfy.

Call to Action:
We’d love to hear how you made this recipe your own! Share your variations, tips, and what side dishes you paired it with. Don’t forget to let us know if you tried any customizations, like adding more spice or using different vegetables!