Savory Beef Tips: Tender, Juicy, and Delicious Recipes You’ll Love

Beef tips, also known as sirloin tips or steak tips, are a versatile and budget-friendly cut of beef that can be transformed into a truly satisfying and flavorful meal. They’re often cut from the sirloin or round, making them a leaner option, but with the right cooking techniques, they can be incredibly tender and juicy. This blog post explores a variety of delicious beef tips recipes, providing detailed instructions and tips to ensure perfect results every time. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a more elaborate weekend feast, you’ll find a recipe here to suit your taste and skill level.

Understanding Beef Tips

Before diving into the recipes, it’s essential to understand what exactly beef tips are and how to choose the best ones. Beef tips are typically trimmings or smaller pieces cut from larger roasts, such as the sirloin or round. Because they come from these leaner cuts, they can become tough if overcooked. The key is to use methods that either cook them quickly at high heat or slowly over a longer period to break down the muscle fibers.

**Choosing the Right Beef Tips:**

* **Look for marbling:** While beef tips are generally leaner, some marbling (flecks of fat within the muscle) is desirable. Marbling contributes to flavor and helps keep the meat moist during cooking.
* **Choose uniformly sized pieces:** This ensures even cooking. If the pieces are different sizes, some may be overcooked while others are still undercooked.
* **Freshness matters:** Look for beef tips that are bright red in color and have a fresh, clean smell. Avoid any packages with a dull color or a sour odor.
* **Consider the source:** If possible, opt for beef tips from a reputable butcher or grocery store with high-quality meat. Grass-fed beef tips may have a slightly different flavor profile.

Essential Tips for Tender Beef Tips

No matter which recipe you choose, these tips will help you achieve the most tender and flavorful beef tips:

* **Trim excess fat and silver skin:** While some fat is good for flavor, too much can lead to a greasy result. Trim away any large pieces of fat and tough silver skin before cooking.
* **Marinate (optional but recommended):** Marinating beef tips helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. A marinade with an acidic component, such as vinegar or citrus juice, helps to break down the muscle fibers. Even a simple marinade of olive oil, garlic, and herbs can make a big difference.
* **Sear at high heat:** Searing the beef tips before braising or stewing creates a flavorful crust and helps to seal in the juices. Make sure your pan is hot before adding the meat.
* **Don’t overcrowd the pan:** Overcrowding the pan lowers the temperature and prevents the beef tips from searing properly. Work in batches if necessary.
* **Cook to the correct internal temperature:** Use a meat thermometer to ensure the beef tips are cooked to your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F (54-57°C); for medium, 135-145°F (57-63°C); and for medium-well, 145-155°F (63-68°C).
* **Let the meat rest:** After cooking, let the beef tips rest for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing or serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful result.

Recipe 1: Classic Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy

This recipe is a classic for a reason. The savory mushroom gravy perfectly complements the tender beef tips, making it a comforting and satisfying meal.

**Ingredients:**

* 1.5 lbs beef tips
* 1 tbsp olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
* 2 cups beef broth
* 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
* 1 tsp dried thyme
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 2 tbsp butter (optional, for extra richness)
* 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the beef tips:** Pat the beef tips dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
2. **Sear the beef tips:** Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef tips in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until browned. Remove the beef tips from the pan and set aside.
3. **Sauté the vegetables:** Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 7-10 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. **Make the gravy:** Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the Worcestershire sauce and thyme. Bring the gravy to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
5. **Return the beef tips to the pan:** Add the seared beef tips back to the skillet with the gravy. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 1-1.5 hours, or until the beef tips are very tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. **Finish and serve:** If desired, stir in the butter for extra richness. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice.

**Tips for Success:**

* **Use high-quality beef broth:** The flavor of the broth will significantly impact the flavor of the gravy.
* **Don’t skip the searing step:** Searing the beef tips is crucial for developing a deep, rich flavor.
* **Adjust the cooking time:** The cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the beef tips. Check for tenderness after 1 hour and adjust accordingly.

Recipe 2: Garlic Butter Beef Tips with Asparagus

This recipe is a quick and easy weeknight meal that’s packed with flavor. The garlic butter sauce is incredibly delicious, and the asparagus adds a touch of freshness.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 lb beef tips
* 2 tbsp olive oil
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 4 tbsp butter
* 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
* 1 tbsp lemon juice
* 1 lb asparagus, trimmed
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the beef tips:** Pat the beef tips dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper. If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
2. **Cook the asparagus:** Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the asparagus and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender-crisp, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper. Remove the asparagus from the skillet and set aside.
3. **Cook the beef tips:** Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Add the beef tips in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness. Remove the beef tips from the skillet and set aside.
4. **Make the garlic butter sauce:** Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter to the skillet and let it melt. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant (be careful not to burn the garlic). Stir in the parsley and lemon juice.
5. **Combine and serve:** Add the cooked beef tips and asparagus back to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly. Serve immediately.

**Tips for Success:**

* **Don’t overcook the beef tips:** Because this recipe cooks the beef tips quickly, it’s important not to overcook them. They should be slightly pink in the center for the best flavor and texture.
* **Use fresh garlic:** Fresh garlic has a much stronger and more vibrant flavor than garlic powder.
* **Adjust the amount of garlic and lemon juice:** Adjust the amount of garlic and lemon juice to your liking. If you prefer a more tangy sauce, add more lemon juice. If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, add more garlic.

Recipe 3: Slow Cooker Beef Tips with Potatoes and Carrots

This recipe is perfect for a busy day. Simply toss the ingredients into the slow cooker in the morning and come home to a delicious and hearty meal.

**Ingredients:**

* 1.5 lbs beef tips
* 1 lb potatoes, peeled and cubed
* 1 lb carrots, peeled and sliced
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 tbsp olive oil
* 2 cups beef broth
* 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
* 1 tsp dried thyme
* 1 tsp dried rosemary
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 2 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening the gravy)
* 2 tbsp cold water (optional, for thickening the gravy)

**Instructions:**

1. **Sear the beef tips (optional):** While not strictly necessary, searing the beef tips before adding them to the slow cooker adds extra flavor. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef tips in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until browned. Remove the beef tips from the skillet and set aside.
2. **Layer the ingredients in the slow cooker:** Place the potatoes, carrots, and onion in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper.
3. **Add the beef tips and broth:** Place the seared (or unseared) beef tips on top of the vegetables. Pour the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce over the beef tips and vegetables.
4. **Cook in the slow cooker:** Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the beef tips and vegetables are tender.
5. **Thicken the gravy (optional):** If you want a thicker gravy, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl. Stir the cornstarch slurry into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking. The gravy will thicken as it cooks.
6. **Serve:** Serve the beef tips, potatoes, and carrots with the gravy.

**Tips for Success:**

* **Don’t overfill the slow cooker:** Overfilling the slow cooker can prevent the food from cooking evenly. Make sure the ingredients are no more than two-thirds full.
* **Adjust the cooking time:** The cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker. Check for tenderness after 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high and adjust accordingly.
* **Add other vegetables:** Feel free to add other vegetables to the slow cooker, such as celery, parsnips, or mushrooms.

Recipe 4: Beef Tips Stroganoff

This recipe puts a delicious twist on a classic comfort food. Using beef tips instead of traditional steak makes this stroganoff more affordable and just as satisfying.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 lb beef tips
* 1 tbsp olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
* 2 cups beef broth
* 1/2 cup sour cream
* 1/4 cup dry sherry (optional)
* 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
* 1 tsp paprika
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Egg noodles, cooked, for serving
* Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the beef tips:** Pat the beef tips dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
2. **Sear the beef tips:** Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef tips in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until browned. Remove the beef tips from the pan and set aside.
3. **Sauté the vegetables:** Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 7-10 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. **Make the sauce:** Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the beef broth and sherry (if using), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the Dijon mustard and paprika. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
5. **Return the beef tips to the pan:** Add the seared beef tips back to the skillet with the sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 30-45 minutes, or until the beef tips are very tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. **Stir in the sour cream:** Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the sour cream. Be careful not to boil the sauce after adding the sour cream, as it may curdle.
7. **Serve:** Serve the beef tips stroganoff over cooked egg noodles. Garnish with fresh parsley.

**Tips for Success:**

* **Use full-fat sour cream:** Full-fat sour cream will provide the best flavor and texture. Low-fat sour cream may curdle when heated.
* **Don’t boil the sauce after adding the sour cream:** Boiling the sauce after adding the sour cream can cause it to curdle.
* **Add a splash of sherry:** Dry sherry adds a complex and flavorful note to the sauce.

Recipe 5: Beef Tips Fajitas

Give your fajitas a hearty upgrade with tender beef tips. This recipe is a fun and flavorful way to enjoy beef tips for a casual weeknight meal.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 lb beef tips
* 1 tbsp olive oil
* 1 onion, sliced
* 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
* 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional)
* 1 packet fajita seasoning
* Tortillas, warmed, for serving
* Toppings of your choice: sour cream, salsa, guacamole, shredded cheese, etc.

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the beef tips:** Pat the beef tips dry with paper towels and season generously with fajita seasoning.
2. **Cook the vegetables:** Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onion and bell pepper (and jalapeño, if using) and cook until softened and slightly charred, about 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove the vegetables from the skillet and set aside.
3. **Cook the beef tips:** Add the beef tips to the skillet in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness. Remove the beef tips from the skillet and slice them thinly against the grain.
4. **Combine and serve:** Return the cooked vegetables to the skillet with the sliced beef tips. Toss to combine. Serve immediately with warmed tortillas and your favorite fajita toppings.

**Tips for Success:**

* **Use a pre-made fajita seasoning mix:** A pre-made fajita seasoning mix is a convenient way to add flavor to the beef tips and vegetables. Or, make your own using chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
* **Slice the beef tips against the grain:** Slicing the beef tips against the grain will make them more tender.
* **Warm the tortillas:** Warm tortillas are more pliable and easier to fill.

Beyond the Recipes: Serving Suggestions and Variations

These recipes are just a starting point. Feel free to get creative and adapt them to your own tastes and preferences.

**Serving Suggestions:**

* **Grains:** Serve beef tips over rice, quinoa, couscous, or mashed potatoes.
* **Noodles:** Pair beef tips with egg noodles, pasta, or polenta.
* **Vegetables:** Serve beef tips with roasted vegetables, steamed vegetables, or a salad.
* **Bread:** Enjoy beef tips in sandwiches, wraps, or tacos.

**Variations:**

* **Spice it up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or a minced jalapeño pepper to your beef tips for a little extra heat.
* **Make it creamy:** Stir in a dollop of sour cream, Greek yogurt, or cream cheese to your beef tips for a richer and creamier flavor.
* **Add some wine:** Deglaze the pan with a splash of red wine or white wine for a more complex flavor.
* **Experiment with different herbs and spices:** Try using different herbs and spices to create unique flavor combinations. Some good options include rosemary, thyme, oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
* **Use different sauces:** Try using different sauces to coat your beef tips. Some good options include barbecue sauce, teriyaki sauce, sweet and sour sauce, and mushroom sauce.

Conclusion

Beef tips are a versatile and affordable cut of meat that can be transformed into a variety of delicious and satisfying meals. With the right cooking techniques and these tried-and-true recipes, you can create tender, juicy, and flavorful beef tips that your family and friends will love. So, get cooking and enjoy the delicious possibilities of beef tips!