Name: Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy: Comfort Food Bliss at Home
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Oil (Can substitute with butter or cooking spray.); 2 pounds Stew Meat (or Chuck) (Beef tenderloin can be used for a premium option.); to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; 1 medium Sweet Onion (Can substitute with yellow or red onion.); 3 cloves Garlic (Can replace with garlic powder.); 1 cup Beef Broth (Can use chicken or vegetable broth.); 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce (Soy sauce can be used as a substitute.); 1 leaf Bay Leaf (Omit if unavailable, use dried herbs instead.); 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning (Can be replaced with dried oregano, basil, and thyme.); 1 teaspoon Fresh Thyme (Adjust quantity if using dried thyme.); 2 tablespoons Cornstarch; ¼ cup Water; 4 cups Mashed Potatoes (or Rice/Egg Noodles) (Choose your favorite starch.); to taste Fresh Parsley (Optional garnish.)

There’s nothing quite like the warm embrace of a hearty meal at the end of a long day. When I’m craving something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen, I turn to my Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy. This dish transforms tender beef bites into a scrumptious, savory experience, enveloped in rich gravy that perfectly complements creamy mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. Not only is this recipe a remarkable time-saver, thanks to the magic of pressure cooking, but it also guarantees that you’ll be serving a comforting classic that friends and family will adore. As we dive into this culinary delight, I can’t help but wonder: What will you pair it with for that perfect, cozy dinner?

What makes this dish a must-try?

Simplicity: Preparing Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy is a breeze—just set it and let the magic happen!
Flavor Explosion: Each bite is an explosion of rich, savory flavors that warm your soul.
Versatility: Serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for a delightful twist every time.
Time-Saving: Enjoy a hearty, home-cooked meal in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods.
Crowd-Pleasing: This dish is sure to impress family and friends, making it the perfect centerpiece for gatherings.
For an extra flavor kick, consider adding mushrooms to the mix, or check out these Bay Biscuit Seafood for a delightful side!

Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy Ingredients

For the Beef Tips

Oil – Provides fat for sautéing and enhances flavor; substitute with butter or a cooking spray if desired.
Stew Meat (or Chuck) – Main protein source that adds heartiness; use beef tenderloin for a more premium option.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning the meat; adjust to taste for optimal flavor.

For the Gravy

Sweet Onion – Adds sweetness and depth; substitute with yellow or red onion if needed.
Garlic – Infuses the dish with aroma and flavor; replace with garlic powder in a pinch.
Beef Broth – Provides the base for the gravy; chicken broth or vegetable broth can be used for a lighter taste.
Worcestershire Sauce – Adds umami and complexity; soy sauce can be used as a substitute.
Bay Leaf – Contributes depth; omit if unavailable, or use dried herbs.
Italian Seasoning – Enhances flavor with herbs; can be replaced with dried oregano, basil, and thyme.
Fresh Thyme (or Dried) – Adds earthy notes; adjust the quantity if using dried thyme.

For Thickening

Cornstarch + Water – Used to thicken the gravy; can replace with flour to achieve the same effect.

For Serving

Mashed Potatoes (or Rice/Egg Noodles) – Acts as the perfect base for the beef and gravy; feel free to choose your favorite starch.
Fresh Parsley – For garnish, adding freshness and color; can be omitted if preferred.

Now, with all these ingredients lined up, you’re ready to embark on a comforting culinary journey with this unforgettable Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy recipe!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy

Step 1: Set Up Your Instant Pot
Begin by turning your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and heating 2 tablespoons of oil until shimmering. This should take about 2-3 minutes. The oil helps create a beautiful base flavor for your Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy. Make sure to wear an apron as the sizzling might splash a bit!

Step 2: Brown the Beef
Season 2 pounds of stew meat with salt and pepper generously. Working in batches, add half of the beef to the hot oil and brown it on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, transfer this batch to a plate, allowing for extra flavor to develop in the pot.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the remaining oil and sauté a diced sweet onion for approximately 5 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add in 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring until fragrant. This step builds depth for the Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy, creating a comforting ambiance in the kitchen.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pot
Pour in 1 cup of beef broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. This process, known as deglazing, is key for avoiding the dreaded “burn” notice during pressure cooking. The broth will start to simmer and release all those wonderful flavors you’ve built up.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Return the browned beef to the pot and add in 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, 1 bay leaf, 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, and 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme. Stir everything well, ensuring that the beef is evenly coated in the savory blend to maximize flavor for the Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy.

Step 6: Cook Under Pressure
Lock the Instant Pot lid into place and close the pressure valve. Set the pot to high pressure for 25 minutes. After cooking, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before carefully switching the valve to release any remaining steam. This ensures your beef becomes tender and juicy.

Step 7: Thicken the Gravy
Once pressure is fully released, switch the Instant Pot back to “Sauté” mode. In a separate bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with ¼ cup of water until dissolved. Stir this mixture into the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency, creating a rich sauce for your beef.

Step 8: Serve the Meal
Spoon the hearty beef tips and gravy over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. Let the wonderful aroma fill your kitchen as you plate your meal. For a pop of color, sprinkle fresh parsley on top, making your dish vibrant and inviting for everyone to enjoy!

Expert Tips for Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy

Deglaze Properly: Always scrape up the brown bits after sautéing; this prevents a “burn” notice and enhances the gravy’s flavor.
Browning Matters: While optional, browning the meat before pressure cooking adds depth and caramelization that heightens the overall taste of your dish.
Adjust Cooking Times: If using thicker cuts of beef or frozen meat, increase the cooking time by 5-10 minutes to ensure tenderness in your Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy.
Whisk for Smoothness: Combine cornstarch and water until fully dissolved before adding to the gravy; this prevents lumps and ensures a silky texture.
Texture Preference: If you prefer a thicker gravy, add more cornstarch to your mixture or let it simmer a bit longer in the sauté mode.

How to Store and Freeze Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; this keeps your Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy fresh and ready for quick meals throughout the week.

Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2-3 months; label with date for easy organization. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming; you might want to add a splash of beef broth to restore moisture.

Room Temperature: For best quality, enjoy the meal while warm; avoid leaving it out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.

What to Serve with Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy

When you’re ready to create a heartwarming meal, these comforting pairings will perfectly complement the savory goodness of your beef tips and gravy.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The ultimate partner, their velvety texture soaks up the gravy beautifully, enhancing each bite.
Fluffy Rice: Quick to prepare, rice serves as a delightful canvas for the rich beef and gravy, balancing flavors effortlessly.
Egg Noodles: Tender and slightly chewy, they add an inviting twist, making every forkful a delightful surprise.
Roasted Vegetables: Brightly colored veggies bring crunch and freshness, adding a nutritious touch to your comfort dish.
Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery, garlic bread is perfect for mopping up every last drop of that luscious gravy.
Simple Green Salad: Crisp greens with a light vinaigrette offer a refreshing contrast that brightens the hearty meal.
Red Wine: A glass of bold red wine enhances the meal’s depth and pairs beautifully with the beef flavors.
Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge your sweet tooth! This rich dessert rounds out the meal with a warm, gooey finish that everyone will love.

Make Ahead Options

These Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can brown the beef and sauté the onions with garlic up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the rich flavors to develop even further while saving you time when it’s time to cook. Store the sautéed components in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to finish the dish. Additionally, you can measure out your seasonings and keep them ready to go for a quick assembly. When it’s time to serve, simply add the browned beef and sautéed veggies back to the Instant Pot with beef broth, pressure cook, and thicken the gravy as directed. This way, you can have a delicious, comforting meal on the table with minimal effort after a busy day!

Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy Variations

Feel free to embrace creativity with your beef tips and gravy by trying a few delightful twists that spark joy in every bite!

Mushroom Medley: Add 1 cup of mushrooms alongside the onions for an earthy richness that deepens the flavor. The savory notes of the mushrooms meld beautifully with the gravy.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate 1-2 finely chopped jalapeños or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to elevate the heat level. This brings a subtle warmth that perfectly complements the savory beef.
Herb Infusion: Replace Italian seasoning with fresh herbs like rosemary and sage for a delightful aromatic touch. This instantly transforms the flavor profile into something truly comforting.
Dairy-Free Delight: Swap beef broth for a rich vegetable broth for a lighter option while maintaining great flavor. This keeps your dish vibrant and satisfying even for plant-based eaters.
Pork Alternative: Use cubed pork shoulder instead of beef for a unique twist with tender results. Pork benefits from the same rich gravy, offering a new way to enjoy this classic dish.
Creamy Version: Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream right before serving for a luscious, creamy gravy. This creates a velvety sauce that adds luxurious comfort to every bite.
Quick Mashed Potatoes: For faster preparation, consider using store-bought mashed potatoes. They serve as a simple base while you focus on creating that delicious beef and gravy.
Savoury Addition: Add 1 cup of chopped carrots and peas in the last 10 minutes of pressure cooking for a heartier meal packed with veggies. This enhances the meal’s nutrition and color.

For more deliciously savory inspiration, why not explore these comforting sides like Bay Biscuit Seafood or pair your beef tips with a side of Cod Potatoes Rosemary? Each variation lovingly invites you to savor every delightful spoonful!

Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best stew meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing stew meat, look for cuts that have some marbling, like chuck or round, as they tend to be more flavorful and tender when cooked. I often opt for meat that is a deep red color without any dark spots. If available, you can also use beef tenderloin for an extra tender option, but remember it may not have the same rich beefy flavor.

How should I store leftover Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy?
Very simple! Store your leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the dish cool down before sealing it to retain its freshness. When you’re ready to reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth to bring back the moisture and richness.

Can I freeze Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy?
Of course! To freeze, place portions in airtight containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion, and label them with the date. Your Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy can be frozen for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then reheat on the stovetop for the best results!

What should I do if my gravy isn’t thickening properly?
Oh no! If your gravy isn’t thickening to your liking, you might want to whisk up another batch of cornstarch and water. Simply mix another 2 tablespoons of cornstarch in ¼ cup of cool water until fully dissolved, and stir it into the simmering gravy. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until it reaches your preferred consistency.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes, certainly! If you have specific dietary concerns, like gluten sensitivity, you can substitute the Worcestershire sauce with a gluten-free option, and use cornstarch for thickening. For individuals with allergies, the recipe contains beef and garlic, so please adjust according to your needs. If you’re preparing this for pets, ensure there are no seasonings or foods harmful to them—stick with plain meat for their safety!

How long can I keep the Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy at room temperature?
It’s best practice to enjoy your meal while it’s warm and to avoid leaving it out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Beyond that timeframe, food safety guidelines recommend you should refrigerate or discard to prevent any risk of bacterial growth. Enjoy your comforting meal safely and deliciously!