When it comes to comfort food, nothing quite hits the spot like beef tips with mushroom gravy. Seriously, this dish is like a warm hug on a chilly evening! I remember the first time I made it; the aroma filled my kitchen, and I could hardly wait to dig in. The tender beef tips, soaking up every bit of that savory, rich mushroom gravy, make this an unforgettable meal. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up on a busy weeknight or serve at a cozy family gathering. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself craving it again and again. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table, and you’ll be the hero of the night!
Ingredients List
- 1.5 lbs beef tips: Look for tender cuts like sirloin or tenderloin for the best flavor and texture.
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced: I love using cremini or button mushrooms, but feel free to experiment with your favorites!
- 1 onion, chopped: A medium onion works perfectly—just chop it up nice and small so it cooks evenly.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a wonderful aroma; don’t skimp on this one!
- 2 cups beef broth: Homemade is best, but store-bought works just fine in a pinch. Look for low-sodium if you’re watching your salt.
- 1/4 cup flour: This will help thicken the gravy and give it that perfect consistency.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For browning the beef; it adds a lovely flavor and keeps things from sticking.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget to season generously—you want every bite to be flavorful!
- 1 teaspoon thyme: Fresh or dried thyme works well here, adding a subtle herbal note to the dish.
How to Prepare Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy
Seasoning the Beef Tips
First things first, let’s get those beef tips seasoned! I like to sprinkle a generous amount of salt, pepper, and thyme all over the meat. You want to make sure every piece is coated because this is where the flavor journey begins. Just rub the seasoning in with your hands; it’s a bit messy, but trust me, it’s totally worth it. Proper seasoning sets the foundation for those tender bites of beef, so don’t rush this step!
Cooking the Beef Tips
Now, grab your favorite large skillet and heat up the olive oil over medium heat. You want it nice and hot, but not smoking—just enough to get that sizzle going! Carefully add the seasoned beef tips to the pan, making sure to give them space so they can brown properly. You’ll want to cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re beautifully browned. This caramelization is key, as it enhances the flavor. Once browned, toss in the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant. Ah, can you smell that? It’s heavenly!
Making the Mushroom Gravy
Next up, it’s time to bring in the mushrooms! Add those sliced beauties to the pan and let them cook down for about 5 minutes until they’re tender and have released their juices. Now, sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir it in well. This will help thicken our gravy later. Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring constantly—you don’t want any lumps. Let it all simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens up nicely. Adjust the seasoning if needed, and then you’re ready to serve! This rich, velvety mushroom gravy over those juicy beef tips is going to be a showstopper. Enjoy every bite!
Tips for Success
To really nail your beef tips with mushroom gravy, here are a few tips I’ve picked up along the way. First, don’t rush the browning process—patience is key! Letting the beef tips get a good sear enhances flavor, so give them enough time in the pan. Also, when adding the flour, make sure to stir it in thoroughly to avoid clumps in your gravy. If the gravy seems too thick, just whisk in a bit more beef broth until you reach your desired consistency. And don’t forget to taste as you go! Adjusting the seasoning is essential for getting that perfect flavor balance. Lastly, let your dish simmer gently; it’s all about coaxing those lovely flavors together for a comforting meal that everyone will love!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to customize your beef tips with mushroom gravy! For a little extra richness, try adding a splash of red wine to the pan after browning the beef tips—let it cook down for a few minutes before adding the broth. You can also swap out the mushrooms for other veggies; bell peppers or even carrots can add a delightful twist. If you’re craving something a bit heartier, toss in some diced potatoes during the simmering stage for a one-pot meal that’s comforting and filling. And for a creamy version, stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese at the end—it’ll make the gravy extra luscious! The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and make this dish your own!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving beef tips with mushroom gravy, there are so many delicious options to elevate your meal! I love pairing it with fluffy mashed potatoes; they soak up all that rich gravy beautifully. Alternatively, a bed of egg noodles is perfect for twirling those tender beef tips and sauce. If you’re looking for something lighter, a side of steamed green beans or roasted broccoli adds a lovely crunch and freshness. And don’t forget about crusty bread! It’s perfect for mopping up any leftover gravy on your plate—trust me, you won’t want to waste a drop! For a touch of brightness, a simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish. Whatever you choose, your beef tips with mushroom gravy will shine as the star of the show!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick glance at the estimated nutritional information for a serving of beef tips with mushroom gravy. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and portion sizes, but this should give you a good idea:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 30g
This dish is not only satisfying but also packed with protein, making it a great option for a hearty meal. Enjoy your delicious beef tips with mushroom gravy while keeping these numbers in mind!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of meat? Absolutely! While beef tips are fantastic, you can substitute them with chunks of chicken or even pork. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, since different meats have varying cooking requirements.
What if I don’t have fresh thyme? No worries! Dried thyme works just as well. Use about a third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. You could also experiment with other herbs like rosemary or parsley for a different flavor profile.
Can I make this dish in advance? Yes, you can! Beef tips with mushroom gravy hold up really well. Just cook the dish, let it cool, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
What should I serve with beef tips with mushroom gravy? I love serving this dish over mashed potatoes or egg noodles, but it’s also delicious with rice or even a hearty bread for soaking up that amazing gravy!
Is this recipe freezer-friendly? It sure is! You can freeze the beef tips with mushroom gravy for up to three months. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Print
Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy: 5 Comforting Secrets Revealed
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Tender beef tips cooked in a savory mushroom gravy.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs beef tips
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon thyme
Instructions
- Season beef tips with salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Brown the beef tips on all sides.
- Add onions and garlic, sauté until softened.
- Add mushrooms and cook until tender.
- Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir well.
- Gradually add beef broth, stirring constantly.
- Simmer for 20 minutes until thickened.
- Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Notes
- Serve with crusty bread.
- Can substitute mushrooms with other vegetables.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: beef tips, mushroom gravy, beef recipe, comfort food
