As I stepped into my kitchen, the aroma of rich, savory gravy wafted through the air, transforming the space into the perfect cozy retreat. Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy is my go-to recipe when I crave a hearty meal that wraps me in comfort like a warm blanket. This dish showcases succulent beef bathed in a luscious gravy, and it’s incredibly quick to prepare—perfect for those busy weeknights when time is tight. Plus, serving it over creamy mashed potatoes turns your dinner into a delightful celebration of home-cooked goodness. With every bite, you’ll savor the comforting feel of this classic American dish. Are you ready to create a meal that will have your family asking for seconds?
Why is this dish a family favorite?
Hearty Comfort: The combination of tender beef and rich gravy is a warm hug on a plate, perfect for any family gathering.
Quick & Easy: In just under an hour, you can whip up a delicious meal that feels like it took all day, ideal for busy weeknights.
Versatile Base: Serve it over creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or egg noodles for an adaptable dish that suits everyone’s tastes.
Crowd Pleaser: Kids and adults alike will rave about this comforting classic, making it your new go-to recipe.
Flavorful Ingredients: With simple pantry staples like Worcestershire sauce and fresh herbs, this dish bursts with savory goodness.
For more flavorful meals, check out my Caramelized Pulled Beef or enjoy a cozy night in with Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie.
Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy Ingredients
For the Meat
• Stew Meat (or Cubed Chuck) – This tender cut serves as the hearty protein base; sirloin or brisket also work great if you’re looking for alternatives.
For the Seasonings
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning your beef; adjust to your family’s taste preferences.
• Garlic – Enhances the flavor wonderfully; you can use garlic powder as a quick substitute if fresh isn’t on hand.
• Italian Seasoning – Gives a nice herbal touch; a blend of dried oregano and basil is a fine alternative.
• Fresh Thyme (or Dried Thyme) – Adds lovely herbal notes; feel free to omit or swap it with rosemary.
• Bay Leaf – Introduces aromatic flavor; it can also be omitted if you don’t have any.
For the Gravy
• Oil – Necessary for sautéing the meat and onion; can be substituted with any cooking oil of your choice.
• Sweet Onion – Adds sweetness and depth to the dish; yellow onions can be used as a solid substitute.
• Beef Broth – This provides the rich liquid needed for a great gravy; for a lighter option, use vegetable broth.
• Worcestershire Sauce – Boosts umami flavors in the dish; if you need a replacement, soy sauce also works.
For Thickening the Gravy
• Cornstarch + Water – Used to achieve that delicious gravy thickness; arrowroot powder can be substituted if needed.
For Serving
• Mashed Potatoes (or Rice/Egg Noodles) – The best base to enjoy your flavorful beef tips and gravy; feel free to mix it up with whatever you prefer!
• Fresh Parsley – An optional garnish that adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish.
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy tonight—your taste buds will thank you!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy
Step 1: Sauté the Oil
Begin by adding 2 tablespoons of oil to your Instant Pot, then set it to “Sauté” on high. Allow the oil to heat until shimmering, indicating it’s ready for the next step. This will create a flavorful base for your dish.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Season your beef with salt and pepper, then add half of it to the hot oil. Sear the beef for about 4-5 minutes on each side until it develops a rich, golden-brown color. Remove the browned meat and set it aside, repeating the process with the remaining beef.
Step 3: Cook the Onions
With the remaining oil still in the pot, add the diced sweet onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Be sure to scrape the pot to release any tasty browned bits from the beef, enhancing the flavor of your Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy.
Step 4: Add Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and continue cooking for 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. This step is key for enriching your gravy with savory flavors. Make sure not to let the garlic burn to maintain its sweetness.
Step 5: Incorporate the Broth
Pour in the beef broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any remaining bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. This ensures your gravy will be both flavorful and free from any burnt taste, as you prepare the foundation for your Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy.
Step 6: Combine Remaining Ingredients
Return the browned beef to the pot and add Worcestershire sauce, bay leaf, Italian seasoning, and thyme. Stir thoroughly to combine all the ingredients, ensuring the beef is covered with liquid. This mixture will simmer and infuse wonderfully in the Instant Pot.
Step 7: Cook Under Pressure
Seal the lid on the Instant Pot, ensuring the pressure valve is closed. Set it to cook on high pressure for 25 minutes. Once the cooking time is completed, allow for a natural release for 10 minutes, which contributes to the beef’s tenderness in your Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy.
Step 8: Thicken the Gravy
After the natural release, carefully release any remaining pressure. Switch the Instant Pot back to “Sauté” mode. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then stir this into the pot. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the gravy to thicken to your desired consistency.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the beef and thick gravy over creamy mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for a complete meal. For an added touch, garnish with fresh parsley. Your Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy is now ready to tantalize your taste buds and create a warm, hearty dining experience!
Expert Tips for Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy
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Browning Matters: Ensure each piece of beef is nicely browned. This creates depth of flavor through caramelization, enhancing your Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy.
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De-glaze Wisely: Don’t skip scraping the pot after sautéing. This prevents the “burn” warning and provides a rich base for your gravy.
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Thicken to Taste: If the gravy isn’t as thick as you’d like after adding the cornstarch slurry, allow it to simmer a bit longer to achieve that perfect consistency.
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Rest for Juiciness: Let the meat rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows juices to redistribute, ensuring succulent bites in your dish.
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Seasoning Appreciation: Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. Sometimes a pinch more salt or a dash of pepper can elevate the flavors in your Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy.
How to Store and Freeze Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the dish cool down before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the beef tips and gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to ensure even warming of your Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy.
Serving/Freezing Tip: Consider portioning out meals before freezing, making it easier to enjoy this comforting dish whenever cravings arise!
What to Serve with Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy
A heartwarming meal is best enjoyed with the right sides that elevate its comforting flavors.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The ultimate partner, these smooth potatoes soak up the rich gravy, creating a delightful balance of textures.
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Butter Garlic Noodles: Light and flavorful, these noodles add a lovely contrast while complementing the savory beef in every bite.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted carrots, broccoli, and bell peppers brings freshness and a pop of color to your plate, brightening the meal.
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Garden Salad: Crisp greens with a tangy vinaigrette are the perfect way to cut through the richness, refreshing your palate with each forkful.
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Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory beef tips, creating a delicious harmony of flavors on your plate.
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Crusty Bread: Perfect for sopping up every last drop of gravy, the warm, crusty bread adds an inviting element to the table.
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Red Wine: A glass of Cabernet Sauvignon enhances the meal with its bold flavors, making this dinner even more memorable.
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Apple Crisp: For dessert, this warm, cinnamon-spiced treat with a scoop of vanilla ice cream rounds off your hearty meal with a comforting sweetness.
Make Ahead Options
These Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can brown the beef and sauté the onions up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate these components in airtight containers to keep them fresh. The rich gravy can also be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just combine the prepped ingredients in the Instant Pot, add the necessary broth and seasonings, and cook under pressure as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy a hearty, home-cooked meal with minimal effort on busy weeknights—just as delicious as if you made it fresh!
Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own; let your taste buds embark on a flavorful journey!
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Mushroom Boost: Add sliced mushrooms during the sautéing step to enhance earthiness and depth in flavor. They’ll soak up the delicious gravy, adding a luscious texture.
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Chicken Twist: Swap out the beef for chicken pieces for a lighter alternative. Cook times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on the tenderness.
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Low-Carb Swap: Replace mashed potatoes with cauliflower mash to create a guilt-free, keto-friendly version without sacrificing that creamy comfort.
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Spicy Kick: If you’re up for a little heat, incorporate crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the mix. This addition creates a lively contrast with the rich gravy, exciting your palate.
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Herb Variation: Try experimenting with fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley instead of thyme for a fresh twist. Each herb brings its unique fragrance and taste to the dish.
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Vegetarian Option: To transform this hearty meal, use a mix of hearty vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, and potatoes. Combine them with vegetable broth for a satisfying, plant-based dish. This version works wonderfully over Cod Potatoes Rosemary too!
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Creamy Gravy: For an extra-rich sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving. It creates a luscious texture that you’ll absolutely love.
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Beer Infusion: Replace half of the beef broth with stout or dark beer for a deeper, more robust flavor. This twist adds a delightful depth reminiscent of your favorite pub meal.
Whichever variation you choose, you’re bound to create a dish that your family will cherish!
Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy Recipe FAQs
What type of meat is best for Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy?
Absolutely! For this recipe, stew meat or cubed chuck is ideal due to its tenderness when cooked under pressure. You can certainly use sirloin or brisket as alternatives if you’d like, but keep in mind that they might require slightly adjusted cooking times for optimal tenderness.
How should I store leftover Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy?
To keep it fresh, store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to let the dish cool to room temperature before sealing it, which helps retain the flavors and moisture.
Can I freeze Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy?
Very! You can freeze the beef tips and gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To do this, let it cool completely, then portion it out for easier reheating later. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before gently reheating on the stove or in the microwave.
What should I do if the gravy is too thin after cooking?
If your gravy isn’t as thick as you’d like, don’t worry! Simply switch your Instant Pot back to “Sauté” mode once the cooking is done. Mix equal parts cornstarch and water (about 2 tablespoons of each) in a separate bowl and add this slurry to the pot. Stir constantly for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to bubble and thicken to your desired consistency.
Are there any dietary considerations for Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy?
Absolutely! This dish is generally suitable for gluten-free diets if you ensure that the Worcestershire sauce and any broth used are gluten-free certified. However, if you’re cooking for pets, keep in mind that certain ingredients like garlic can be harmful to them, so it’s best to avoid sharing this dish with your furry friends. Always check for certain allergens if anyone at your table has dietary restrictions.
Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy: Cozy Comfort in Every Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Add 2 tablespoons of oil to your Instant Pot and set it to 'Sauté' on high.
- Season the beef with salt and pepper, then sear half of it for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden-brown.
- Remove the browned meat and repeat with the remaining beef.
- Add the diced sweet onion to the pot and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in beef broth, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Return the beef and add Worcestershire sauce, bay leaf, Italian seasoning, and thyme, stirring to combine.
- Seal the lid, ensuring the pressure valve is closed, and cook on high pressure for 25 minutes.
- Allow for a natural release for 10 minutes before releasing any remaining pressure.
- Switch back to 'Sauté' mode, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry, and stir into the pot to thicken the gravy.
- Serve the beef and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles, garnished with fresh parsley.
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