There’s just something magical about a big, hearty bowl of Beef Tips and Rice. This classic comfort dish is full of melt-in-your-mouth beef, savory gravy, and fluffy rice that soaks up every drop of flavor. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a meal to share with loved ones, Beef Tips and Rice always delivers on taste and nostalgia. It’s easy enough for beginners and deeply satisfying for everyone at the table—this is one recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat!
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes Beef Tips and Rice such a winner is its simplicity—the ingredients are straightforward, but each one brings something special to the party. With a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh items, you’ll build layers of flavor and comfort without fuss.
- Beef stew meat or sirloin tips (1 1/2 pounds): Choose tender cuts for the best results; sirloin tips are especially flavorful and become wonderfully tender when simmered.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): This helps sear the beef to lock in juices and add richness to the final dish.
- Onion (1 medium, chopped): Brings subtle sweetness and depth to the gravy.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Adds an aromatic kick that pairs perfectly with the savory sauce.
- Beef broth (2 cups): The foundation for a luxurious, hearty gravy.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon): A little goes a long way to boost the umami and complexity.
- Soy sauce (1 tablespoon): Rounds out the flavor with a touch of saltiness and depth.
- Dried thyme (1 teaspoon): Adds earthiness and a hint of herbal warmth.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Provides just the right amount of bite.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the savory flavors in the dish.
- Cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water): Thickens the gravy to silky perfection.
- Cooked white or brown rice (2 cups): The perfect base to soak up every bit of the luscious sauce.
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional): Adds a splash of color and a fresh finish to your plate.
How to Make Beef Tips and Rice
Step 1: Sear the Beef
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef tips in batches—don’t overcrowd the pan! Sear each piece for about 2 to 3 minutes per side until beautifully browned. This step is key for locking in flavor and giving your Beef Tips and Rice that signature savory richness. Once browned, transfer the beef to a plate and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pan, toss in the chopped onion and let it cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it softens and turns golden at the edges. Add the minced garlic and cook for just a minute more, allowing those fragrant aromas to mingle and develop. This quick sauté builds the base of your delicious gravy.
Step 3: Build the Gravy
Return the seared beef (and any juices!) back to the pan. Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt. Stir everything together well, scraping up the browned bits from the bottom—those bits are pure flavor gold! Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 45 to 60 minutes. The beef will become irresistibly tender, and the flavors will meld into a savory, mouthwatering sauce.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
Once the beef is tender, stir in your cornstarch slurry. Keep the pan uncovered and let it simmer for another 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens to a glossy, gravy-like consistency. This final touch makes the Beef Tips and Rice extra luscious and perfect for ladling over your rice.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Spoon the tender beef tips and rich gravy generously over a bed of warm white or brown rice. If you’re using parsley, sprinkle it on top for a pop of color and freshness. Now, dig in—this is the comfort food you’ve been dreaming of!
How to Serve Beef Tips and Rice
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds brightness and a pretty finishing touch to Beef Tips and Rice. For a little extra flair, you could also add thinly sliced green onions or a pinch of cracked black pepper. These simple garnishes make your dish look just as good as it tastes!
Side Dishes
Since Beef Tips and Rice is so hearty, keep your sides simple: steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or a crisp garden salad are all perfect matches. If you’re feeling extra cozy, serve it with warm dinner rolls or cornbread to mop up every bit of that savory gravy.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving Beef Tips and Rice in individual bowls or wide mugs for a casual, comforting vibe. You can also use a ring mold to shape the rice on each plate, then spoon the beef tips and gravy over the top for an elegant restaurant-style look. Either way, your guests will be impressed by both the taste and presentation!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store the Beef Tips and Rice (separately, if possible) in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The flavors get even better overnight, making for a fabulous next-day lunch or dinner. Enjoy within 3 to 4 days for the best taste and texture.
Freezing
Beef Tips and Rice freezes incredibly well! Let everything cool completely, then transfer the beef and gravy to freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. You can freeze the rice separately or together, depending on your preference. Label and date your containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place the beef tips and gravy in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until hot. Add a splash of beef broth or water if the gravy is too thick. For the rice, a quick zap in the microwave with a damp paper towel over the bowl keeps it fluffy and moist. Combine and serve just like new!
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for Beef Tips and Rice?
Absolutely! While stew meat and sirloin tips are ideal, you can also use chuck roast cut into cubes. Just be sure to simmer long enough so the beef becomes tender and flavorful.
Is it possible to make Beef Tips and Rice in a slow cooker?
Yes, this dish adapts beautifully to a slow cooker. Sear the beef and sauté the aromatics first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. Add the cornstarch slurry at the end and cook uncovered for about 15 minutes to thicken the gravy.
Can I make Beef Tips and Rice gluten-free?
Definitely! Just be sure to use gluten-free soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy this dish worry-free.
What kind of rice works best with Beef Tips and Rice?
Both white and brown rice are fantastic choices. White rice soaks up the gravy beautifully, while brown rice adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber. You can even try it with mashed potatoes for a fun variation!
How do I add more vegetables to Beef Tips and Rice?
Feel free to toss in sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas during the last 15 minutes of simmering. They’ll add color, texture, and boost the nutrition of your meal.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Beef Tips and Rice, you’ll see why it’s a beloved classic for busy weeknights and family gatherings alike. It’s hearty, flavorful, and pure comfort on a plate. Don’t be surprised if it becomes one of your most-requested dinners—give it a go and let the cozy, savory goodness speak for itself!
Print
Beef Tips and Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This comforting and hearty Beef Tips and Rice recipe features tender beef cubes simmered in a flavorful gravy and served over warm, fluffy rice. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, this dish combines savory beef broth, aromatic herbs, and a touch of Worcestershire and soy sauce for depth of flavor. Served with an optional garnish of fresh parsley, it’s a satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Beef and Sauce
- 1 1/2 pounds beef stew meat or sirloin tips, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
Accompaniment
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add beef tips in batches and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove the browned beef to a plate and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, add chopped onions and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Simmer the Beef: Return the seared beef to the pan. Pour in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt. Stir to combine everything well. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 45–60 minutes or until the beef is tender.
- Thicken the Sauce: Stir in the cornstarch slurry and continue to simmer uncovered for another 3–5 minutes until the sauce has thickened to a gravy consistency.
- Serve: Spoon the beef tips and rich gravy over warm cooked rice. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired and serve immediately.
Notes
- For added richness and flavor, stir in a tablespoon of butter at the end of cooking before serving.
- You can prepare this dish in a slow cooker by cooking on low for 6–8 hours, then stirring in the cornstarch slurry and cooking uncovered on high for 15 minutes to thicken the sauce.
- Use brown rice for a higher fiber option and a nuttier flavor.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the pan when searing the beef to ensure proper browning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
