Name: Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 7 h
Total time: 7 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds beef chuck roast or stew meat; 1 large yellow onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups beef broth; 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 2 tablespoons water; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon butter (optional)

When the craving for something warm, hearty, and deeply comforting hits, I always turn to this Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy recipe. It’s the kind of dish that fills the kitchen with the rich aroma of slow-cooked beef and savory gravy, teasing your taste buds long before it hits the plate. The tender chunks of beef practically melt in your mouth, bathed in a thick, flavorful sauce that’s perfect for spooning over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice.

What I love most is how effortless this recipe is. A few minutes of prep in the morning, and by dinner time, you’re rewarded with a soul-satisfying meal. It’s the perfect answer for busy weekdays, lazy Sundays, or those nights when you want to serve something that feels like a hug in food form. It’s one of those tried-and-true dishes that earns a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy

This recipe is a lifesaver when you want a no-fuss, hearty meal. You get maximum flavor with minimal effort, thanks to the slow cooker. The beef turns incredibly tender, the gravy becomes silky and rich, and the entire dish feels like something you’d order at a cozy diner—except made right in your own kitchen. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, budget-friendly, and endlessly comforting.

What Cut of Beef Works Best for Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy?

Chuck roast is my go-to because it becomes beautifully tender after hours in the slow cooker. You can also use stew meat, sirloin tips, or even a beef round roast. Just make sure to trim any excess fat and cut the pieces evenly to ensure even cooking. Leaner cuts work, but they may not be quite as juicy.

Options for Substitutions

Beef: If you prefer, you can use pork shoulder or even chicken thighs as an alternative protein, though the flavor profile will shift.
Gravy Base: Instead of beef broth, you can use mushroom broth or vegetable broth for a different twist.
Thickener: Cornstarch is common, but flour or arrowroot powder work well too.
Seasonings: Feel free to add rosemary, thyme, or smoked paprika to make the gravy your own.

Ingredients for this Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy

Beef chuck roast or stew meat – The star of the dish. It becomes fall-apart tender after hours of slow cooking, soaking up all the rich, savory flavors.
Yellow onion – Adds natural sweetness and depth to the gravy as it slowly softens and melts into the sauce.
Garlic – A must for that warm, aromatic base flavor.
Beef broth – Forms the foundation of the gravy, bringing deep umami richness to every bite.
Worcestershire sauce – Provides a hint of tangy depth and enhances the savory beefiness.
Soy sauce – Boosts the umami factor and balances the richness with a bit of saltiness.
Dried thyme – Adds a subtle earthy undertone that complements the beef.
Bay leaf – Infuses the sauce with a mild herbal flavor that adds complexity.
Cornstarch + water – Used to thicken the gravy to the perfect consistency near the end of cooking.
Salt and black pepper – Essential seasonings to bring out and balance all the flavors.
Butter (optional) – A pat of butter stirred in at the end adds silkiness and extra richness.

Step 1: Sear the Beef (Optional but Recommended)

If you have a few extra minutes, heat a bit of oil in a skillet and sear the beef chunks until browned on all sides. This step locks in flavor and adds a nice depth to the final dish. Transfer the seared beef into the slow cooker.

Step 2: Add Aromatics and Seasonings

Place the chopped onions and minced garlic on top of the beef in the slow cooker. Sprinkle in the thyme, a bit of salt, pepper, and add the bay leaf.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce. Pour this mixture over the beef and onions in the slow cooker. This will slowly develop into a rich, flavorful gravy.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is fork-tender and the flavors have melded beautifully.

Step 5: Thicken the Gravy

About 30 minutes before serving, whisk the cornstarch and water together to make a slurry. Stir it into the slow cooker and cook uncovered on high until the gravy thickens.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Stir in a bit of butter for an extra luscious finish. Serve hot over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice for a truly comforting meal.

How Long to Prepare the Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy

Preparing this dish is mostly hands-off, which is part of its charm. The active prep time is minimal—about 15-20 minutes to chop, sear, and assemble everything in the slow cooker. From there, the slow cooker does all the work.

For the cooking time, plan for 7-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high. Cooking it low and slow yields the most tender beef, making it perfect for days when you can let it simmer while you go about your schedule. The total time, including prep and cooking, will be around 8 hours on low.

Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy

Sear the meat first. This isn’t required, but taking the time to brown the beef adds deeper, more complex flavor.
Use a good-quality broth. Since the gravy is a major component, using a flavorful beef broth makes a noticeable difference.
Cut beef evenly. Try to make your beef chunks roughly the same size so they cook at the same rate.
Let the gravy thicken naturally. Don’t rush the cornstarch step—give it time to cook and set.
Finish with butter. A little butter stirred in at the end adds a silky finish that makes the sauce restaurant-worthy.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Skipping the sear. It might save time, but you’ll miss out on that extra layer of flavor.
Lifting the lid too often. Every time you open the slow cooker, you let out heat and extend the cooking time.
Overcrowding the pot. Don’t overfill your slow cooker—it can prevent even cooking and cause the meat to steam rather than braise.
Not seasoning enough. Taste before serving and adjust salt or pepper as needed.
Using lean cuts. Avoid cuts that dry out easily—fatty cuts like chuck roast work best.

What to Serve With Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy?

1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes

The classic pairing—soft, buttery mashed potatoes soak up the gravy perfectly.

2. Buttery Egg Noodles

These wide noodles are a great base and hold up well under the thick, rich sauce.

3. Steamed Green Beans

Add a fresh, crunchy element to balance the hearty beef.

4. Roasted Carrots

Their natural sweetness complements the savory depth of the dish.

5. Crusty Bread or Dinner Rolls

Perfect for soaking up every last drop of gravy.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerating:

Let leftovers cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen overnight, so it’s often even better the next day.

Freezing:

Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy freezes well. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating:

Warm on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if the gravy has thickened too much.

Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 6 servings):

Calories: 420
Protein: 36g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 820mg
Cholesterol: 110mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen beef?

Yes, but it’s best to thaw it completely before adding to the slow cooker to ensure even cooking.

Can I make this in the Instant Pot?

Absolutely. Use the sauté function to brown the beef, then pressure cook on high for 35 minutes with a natural release.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, as long as your slow cooker has the capacity. Don’t fill it more than 2/3 full.

How do I make this gluten-free?

Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your broth and Worcestershire are gluten-free. Use cornstarch as the thickener.

What if the gravy is too thick?

Just stir in a splash of beef broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Gravy is one of those rare recipes that feels like a gift to your future self. With a little prep and a lot of patience, you end up with a comforting, flavorful, and deeply satisfying dish that’s perfect for weeknights, weekends, or anytime you need a warm, hearty meal. Whether served over potatoes or noodles, it’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your home.