Classic Beef Tips: A Hearty, Flavorful Family Favorite

Classic Beef Tips Recipe

Beef tips are a classic comfort food dish featuring tender chunks of beef slow-simmered in a rich, savory sauce. This meal is beloved for its hearty flavors, simple preparation, and versatility. Serve it over egg noodles or fluffy white rice for an easy, satisfying dinner the whole family will love. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn everything needed to make beef tips successfully, from choosing your ingredients to expert tips and serving suggestions.

Table of Contents

• About This Recipe
• Ingredients
• How to Make Beef Tips
• Tips for Perfect Beef Tips
• Serving Suggestions
• Storage and Reheating
• Nutrition Information
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

About This Recipe

This classic beef tips recipe yields juicy, tender chunks of beef cooked low and slow in a flavorful blend of soy and Worcestershire sauces. The beef absorbs these umami-rich flavors as it simmers, resulting in a satisfying dish that’s as suitable for weeknight meals as it is for special family dinners. The method is straightforward and requires minimal prep, letting the natural flavors shine through slow cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Dish:

• Hearty and filling—perfect for comfort food cravings.
• Simple ingredients, mostly pantry staples.
• Versatile: Serve over rice, egg noodles, or mashed potatoes.
• Hands-off cooking makes it easy for busy schedules.

Ingredients

Below are the core ingredients you’ll need to recreate the classic flavor of beef tips. While recipes vary slightly—some omitting mushrooms or incorporating additional vegetables—the following list is a reliable starting point for a crowd-pleasing version.

• Beef: Choose from sirloin, stew meat, chuck roast, or round steak cut into bite-sized cubes.
• Onion: Diced, for aromatic depth.
• Garlic: Minced or finely chopped for savory notes.
• Beef broth: Forms the flavor base of the sauce. Substitute with water and a bouillon cube if needed.
• Soy sauce: Adds umami and seasoning.
• Worcestershire sauce: Brings richness and balance to the sauce.
• Cornstarch (or flour): For thickening the sauce.
• Vegetable or olive oil: For browning the meat and vegetables.
• Salt & black pepper: For seasoning.
• Optional: Mushrooms, peas, or bell peppers for added flavor and texture.

Typical Ingredient Quantities

How to Make Beef Tips

1. Prepare the meat: Pat the beef dry and season generously with salt and pepper.
2. Brown the beef: Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Working in batches to avoid crowding, add the beef and sear until browned on all sides. Remove to a plate and set aside.
3. Sauté aromatics: In the same pan, add onion (and mushrooms if using). Cook until softened and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute more.
4. Deglaze and simmer: Pour in beef broth, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Return beef and any juices to the pan. Stir to combine.
5. Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until beef is fork-tender. Stir occasionally, adding a bit more broth if the mixture gets too thick.
6. Thicken the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch with 1/4 cup cold water until smooth. Gradually stir into the simmering beef mixture. Increase heat and cook, stirring, until sauce thickens.
7. Final seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or Worcestershire as desired.

Step-by-Step Summary

• Brown beef for depth of flavor.
• Sauté onions and garlic in the same pan.
• Simmer with sauces and broth until tender.
• Thicken and season before serving.

Tips for Perfect Beef Tips

• Choose the right cut: Sirloin or chuck roast provides the best tenderness and flavor after simmering. Stew meat is a convenient alternative.
• Brown in batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan for even browning and maximum flavor.
• Low and slow is key: Allow plenty of time for simmering; rushing this step can leave the meat tough.
• Thicken gradually: Add the cornstarch mixture slowly to control the sauce’s consistency.
• Add vegetables if desired: Mushrooms, green beans, or peas add color and nutrients.

Serving Suggestions

Beef tips are delicious over a variety of classic starches and side dishes. Consider these options for a complete and satisfying meal:

• White rice: The classic pairing that soaks up the flavorful sauce perfectly.
• Egg noodles: Wide or medium egg noodles provide a tender, comforting base.
• Mashed potatoes: Rich and creamy for added comfort.
• Polenta: For a slightly different spin, serve over soft, buttery polenta.
• Buttered bread or rolls: Mop up the extra sauce.
• Steamed vegetables: Green beans, carrots, or broccoli for balance.

Serving Tips

• Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for color and freshness.
• Add a side salad for a lighter accompaniment.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover beef tips store well for future meals. Follow these simple guidelines:

• Refrigerate: Place cooled leftovers in an airtight container; refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• Freeze: Store cooled beef tips in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm gently in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce is too thick.

Nutrition Information

Actual nutritional values will vary based on ingredients, sides, and portion sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What cut of beef is best for beef tips?

Sirloin, chuck, or round steak are commonly used. Sirloin offers tenderness, while chuck provides rich flavor when slow-cooked.

Can I make beef tips in a slow cooker?

Yes! Follow the same browning steps, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until beef is tender.

Can I add mushrooms or other vegetables?

Absolutely. Sauté mushrooms, bell peppers, or carrots with the onions for added flavor and nutrition.

How do I thicken the sauce if needed?

If the sauce is too thin after simmering, dissolve 1 tablespoon of cornstarch in 1/4 cup cold water and stir it in while simmering until thickened.

What are good side dishes for beef tips?

White rice, egg noodles, mashed potatoes, polenta, or bread work well. Add a side of steamed vegetables or salad for balance.

Can I freeze beef tips?

Yes, beef tips freeze well. Cool completely and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

This classic beef tips recipe is a timeless, comforting meal that’s sure to please both family and guests. With simple ingredients and reliable results, it’s a dish you’ll return to again and again. Adapt it with your favorite vegetables or seasonings for a personal touch, and enjoy the rich flavors and hearty satisfaction of perfectly cooked beef tips any night of the week.

Author

Srija Burman

 

Srija holds an MA in English Literature from the University of Calcutta and a PG diploma in Editing and Publishing from Jadavpur University. Her interest in writing and editing ranges across niches, including academics, sports, and human psychology.

Read full bio of Srija Burman