Why I Love This Beef Tips and Rice Recipe
If I had to name one dish that instantly feels like home, it’s beef tips and rice. I first stumbled upon this recipe during college when I was craving something hearty but budget-friendly. My grandmother used to make a similar dish, slow simmering beef until it was fall-apart tender, then pouring it over fluffy rice. The first time I tried recreating it, I accidentally used the wrong cut of beef, and let’s just say it turned out chewy instead of tender. But through trial and error, I’ve learned all the tricks to make beef tips buttery soft and packed with flavor in under an hour.
The best part? This recipe is flexible. You can make it on the stovetop, in the slow cooker, or even in an Instant Pot when you’re short on time. And the flavor? Think savory gravy, tender chunks of beef, and rice that soaks up all that goodness. Whether you’re feeding family on a weeknight or making something cozy for Sunday dinner, this dish is a keeper.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to make the best beef tips and rice. I’ll also share substitutions so you can adapt it to your diet.
- 2 pounds beef stew meat or sirloin tips, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter for extra richness)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (adds depth, optional)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional for richness)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening, or cornstarch for gluten-free)
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional but delicious)
- 1 bay leaf (remove before serving)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine)
Substitutions and Alternatives:
- Vegan: Swap beef with mushrooms, jackfruit, or seitan and use vegetable broth.
- Gluten-free: Use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the gravy.
- Low-carb: Serve the beef tips over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
- Dairy-free: Stick with olive oil instead of butter.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Beef
Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add olive oil, then the beef cubes in small batches (don’t overcrowd). Sear each side until browned. This step locks in flavor.
👉 Pro tip: Don’t skip searing! It creates that deep, savory flavor in your gravy.
Step 2: Cook the Aromatics
Remove the beef and set aside. In the same pan, sauté diced onion and garlic until soft and fragrant. This base builds depth.
Step 3: Deglaze the Pan
Pour a splash of beef broth into the pan, scraping the bottom with a wooden spoon to lift all those browned bits. That’s pure flavor gold.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Add the beef back in, then stir in the remaining broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, tomato paste, thyme, paprika, mushrooms, and bay leaf.
Step 5: Thicken the Gravy
Mix flour (or cornstarch slurry) with a bit of cold water until smooth. Stir it into the pan and simmer until the sauce thickens.
Step 6: Simmer Until Tender
Cover and simmer on low for 30–40 minutes, or until the beef tips are fork-tender. If using stew meat, you may need closer to 1 hour.
Step 7: Serve Over Rice
Spoon the beef tips and rich gravy over warm, fluffy rice. Garnish with fresh parsley if you’re feeling fancy.
👉 Common mistake to avoid: Don’t boil the beef too hard, or it will become tough. Low and slow is the secret.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Combo: Serve with a side of steamed green beans or roasted carrots.
- Southern Style: Pair with cornbread and collard greens.
- Family Friendly: Add a little less seasoning and pair with buttered corn.
- Special Occasion: Serve with a glass of red wine and a crisp side salad.
Variations:
- Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end.
- Holiday Style: Add pearl onions and fresh rosemary for a festive touch.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze beef tips and sauce (without rice) in freezer bags up to 3 months. Thaw in fridge overnight.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on stovetop with a splash of broth to loosen the gravy.
- Meal Prep: Cook the beef tips ahead of time, store rice separately, and assemble when ready to eat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, 4 servings)
- Calories: ~450
- Protein: 35g
- Carbs: 38g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 720mg
(These numbers are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients used.)
FAQs About Beef Tips and Rice
1. Can I make beef tips and rice in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef first, then add everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
2. What cut of beef is best for beef tips?
Sirloin tips are best for tenderness, but stew meat or chuck works great if cooked longer.
3. Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Absolutely. Brown rice adds more fiber and a nutty flavor. Just allow extra cooking time for the rice.
4. How do I make the gravy thicker?
Use a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp cold water) or add an extra tablespoon of flour.
5. Can this be made dairy-free?
Yes, just use olive oil instead of butter. The recipe is naturally dairy-free otherwise.
6. How long does it last in the fridge?
Up to 4 days in a sealed container. Always reheat thoroughly before eating.
7. Can I make it spicy?
Yes! Add cayenne, chili powder, or hot sauce to the sauce base for a kick.
Final Thoughts
Beef tips and rice is one of those comfort food classics that never gets old. It’s simple, hearty, and flexible enough for weeknights or Sunday dinners. Once you master this recipe, you’ll find yourself tweaking it with your own spices, veggies, and sides. Whether you make it spicy, creamy, or traditional, it’s always satisfying. And the best part? It’s easy enough for beginners but tasty enough to impress anyone at your table.