If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Crockpot Beef Tips with Ranch and Gravy Recipe is exactly what you need. The tender beef, infused with the perfect blend of ranch seasoning and rich gravy mixes, slowly cooks to melt-in-your-mouth perfection. Every bite bursts with flavor thanks to the simple but powerful ingredients that come together effortlessly in your slow cooker, making dinner time both uncomplicated and utterly delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might be straightforward, but they each play an essential role in creating the rich, savory, and creamy flavor profile that makes this dish truly special. From the beef stew meat to the ranch seasoning and gravy mixes, every component works together for a balanced taste and luxurious texture.
- 2 lbs beef stew meat (cubed): The star of the dish, providing robust flavor and a tender, juicy texture when slow-cooked.
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix: Adds a tangy, herbaceous kick and depth to the beef.
- 1 packet brown gravy mix: Builds that rich, hearty gravy we all crave.
- 1 packet au jus gravy mix: Enhances the meatiness of the gravy with a subtle savory edge.
- 1 onion, sliced: Brings a mild sweetness that melts down beautifully during cooking.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides an aromatic punch that elevates every forkful.
- 1 cup beef broth: The base liquid that keeps the beef tender while enriching the gravy.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Introduces a hint of umami and complexity.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional): Adds a deeper richness and subtle saltiness to the gravy.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste): Balances and enhances all the flavors in the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper (adjust to taste): Adds a gentle heat and sharpness to contrast the creamy gravy.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional): Perfect for thickening the gravy if you prefer it luscious and spoon-coating.
- 2 tablespoons water (if thickening with cornstarch): Helps create a smooth slurry to blend evenly.
How to Make Crockpot Beef Tips with Ranch and Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crockpot
Start by placing the cubed beef stew meat straight into your Crockpot. This sets the stage for the rich flavors to soak in as the beef slowly cooks until tender and succulent.
Step 2: Mix the Seasonings
Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix, brown gravy mix, and au jus gravy mix over the beef. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic on top to infuse the meat with sweetness and aromatic depth as it cooks. This layering of flavors is what makes the Crockpot Beef Tips with Ranch and Gravy Recipe so irresistible.
Step 3: Add the Liquids
Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce, if you’re using it, which adds extra depth. Stir gently to combine everything without breaking up the beef cubes. These liquids ensure your beef stays juicy and your gravy rich.
Step 4: Cook Low and Slow
Cover your Crockpot and set it to low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. This slow, gentle cooking time is key to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture and allowing all those seasonings to harmonize beautifully.
Step 5: Thicken the Gravy (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix the cornstarch and water to form a slurry, then stir it into the Crockpot about 30 minutes before serving. Let it thicken to your liking—this step is great for adding that luscious coating to every bite.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Once your beef is tender and the gravy is perfect, it’s time to dig in. The Crockpot Beef Tips with Ranch and Gravy Recipe tastes amazing when spooned over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles—any base that can soak up the delicious gravy.
How to Serve Crockpot Beef Tips with Ranch and Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped chives adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous brightness that lightens the rich, creamy beef tips. Feel free to get creative with garnishes like caramelized onions or crispy fried shallots for added texture.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs perfectly with classic mashed potatoes that soak up every bit of gravy. You can also serve it with buttered egg noodles, fluffy rice, or even roasted vegetables on the side to round out your meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style dinner, serve the Crockpot Beef Tips with Ranch and Gravy Recipe in a rustic casserole dish with sides arranged around it. Alternatively, spoon the beef tips over a flaky biscuit or inside a toasted sandwich bun for a fun twist. It’s a versatile dish that works just as well for casual weeknight dinners or special gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow the beef tips to cool before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days, making it perfect for planned leftovers or next-day meals.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully. Portion the beef tips with gravy into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge to maintain texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of beef broth or water can help restore the gravy’s richness and avoid drying out the beef.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While stew meat is ideal for slow cooking, cuts like chuck or sirloin tips work beautifully because they become tender and flavorful after long, slow cooking times.
Do I have to use all three seasoning packets?
Using all three—the ranch, brown gravy, and au jus mixes—creates the signature flavor combination that makes this recipe stand out. However, you can adjust according to your taste or what you have on hand.
Is it necessary to add soy sauce?
Soy sauce is optional but recommended as it deepens the umami flavor of the dish. If you prefer a milder taste or want to avoid soy, you can leave it out with no issue.
Can I make this recipe on the stovetop?
Yes, you can simmer everything in a heavy pot on low heat for about 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally. Just keep an eye on the liquid levels and the tenderness of the beef.
How do I make the gravy gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, opt for gluten-free gravy and ranch seasoning mixes, and check your Worcestershire sauce for gluten or use a gluten-free alternative.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting and satisfying about the Crockpot Beef Tips with Ranch and Gravy Recipe. It’s effortless to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for cozy nights when you want a meal that feels like it was made with love. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your recipe rotation—you’ll be amazed at how such simple ingredients can create something so incredibly special.
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Crockpot Beef Tips with Ranch and Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 hours (low) or 4.5 hours (high)
- Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes (low) or 4 hours 45 minutes (high)
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crockpot Beef Tips recipe features tender, flavorful beef stew meat slow-cooked with ranch seasoning, brown gravy mix, au jus gravy mix, onions, and garlic. The beef is infused with rich, savory liquids and can be thickened into a luscious gravy, making it a comforting and easy-to-make meal perfect for serving over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.
Ingredients
Beef and Seasonings
- 2 lbs beef stew meat (cubed)
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 packet brown gravy mix
- 1 packet au jus gravy mix
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional for extra depth)
Seasoning Adjustments & Thickening
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons water (if thickening with cornstarch)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crockpot: Place the cubed beef stew meat into the Crockpot, spreading it out evenly for even cooking.
- Mix the seasonings: Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix, brown gravy mix, and au jus gravy mix evenly over the beef. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic on top to infuse flavor throughout the cooking process.
- Add the liquids: Pour the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce (if using) over the beef mixture. Stir gently to combine all ingredients and ensure seasonings and liquids are evenly distributed.
- Cook: Cover the Crockpot with its lid and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours, until the beef is tender and fully cooked through.
- Thicken the gravy (optional): If you desire a thicker gravy, mix the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to form a slurry. Stir this slurry into the Crockpot about 30 minutes before serving. Continue cooking until the gravy reaches your preferred thickness.
- Serve: Once the beef is tender and the gravy is thickened, serve the beef tips over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley for added color and flavor.
Notes
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste as seasoning mixes may already contain salt.
- For a gluten-free version, ensure gravy mixes are gluten-free or substitute with gluten-free options.
- If you prefer a deeper flavor, soy sauce is optional but recommended.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Use cornstarch slurry for thickening to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth gravy.
- Serving suggestions include mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or steamed vegetables.
