If you’re craving a hearty, soul-satisfying meal, nothing comes close to this Beef Tips and Rice Recipe. It brings together tender, juicy beef tips simmered in a rich, flavorful gravy that perfectly soaks into fluffy white rice. Each bite bursts with savory goodness, making it a cherished comfort food classic that’s both simple to prepare and deeply comforting on those cozy nights in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Beef Tips and Rice Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each carefully chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the robust beef stew meat to the aromatic thyme, everything plays a key role in turning this dish into a satisfying experience.
- 1½ pounds beef stew meat or sirloin tips: The star of the dish, providing tender, flavorful bites after slow simmering.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Essential for searing the beef to lock in juices and build a delicious crust.
- 1 small onion (chopped): Adds a natural sweetness and texture to the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Offers a fragrant punch that elevates the savory profile.
- 2 cups beef broth: Creates the rich, hearty base of the gravy.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Brings tangy depth and umami complexity.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Adds saltiness and a hint of earthiness.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Imparts a subtle herbal note that complements the beef perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances flavors without overwhelming.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Offers a mild kick and aroma.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water: The secret to that luscious, thickened gravy everyone loves.
- 2 cups cooked white rice: The ultimate base to soak up all the savory goodness.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh, vibrant burst of color and a hint of brightness.
How to Make Beef Tips and Rice Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Beef
Start by heating your vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Pat the beef tips dry for better browning, then add them in batches so they have room to sear rather than steam. Browning each side takes about 5 to 6 minutes and builds the savory foundation that defines this dish’s rich flavor.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Once your beef is nicely browned and set aside, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for 2 to 3 minutes until they become soft and release their wonderful aroma, which melds beautifully into the gravy later on.
Step 3: Create the Sauce Base
Pour in the beef broth followed by Worcestershire and soy sauces. These ingredients create the backbone of your sauce. Then, sprinkle in the thyme, salt, and pepper, giving everything a good stir. Bring this mixture to a boil to marry the flavors before lowering the heat for simmering.
Step 4: Simmer Until Tender
Cover the skillet and let the beef tips simmer gently on low heat for 45 to 60 minutes. This slow cooking tenderizes the meat until it’s irresistibly soft and allows the flavors to deepen into a luscious, comforting gravy. Stir occasionally and add a splash of water or broth if the liquid reduces too much.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
Once the beef is tender, stir in the cornstarch slurry. Cook uncovered for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently until the sauce thickens to a velvety consistency that clings to each juicy piece of beef.
Step 6: Plate over Rice
Finally, serve your delightful beef tips smothered over warm, fluffy cooked rice. For a fresh touch, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top. This simple presentation maximizes comfort and makes every forkful taste like a warm hug.
How to Serve Beef Tips and Rice Recipe
Garnishes
While the fresh parsley adds a lovely contrast in color and brightness, you can also consider a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper or a dash of smoked paprika for an extra pop of flavor. These simple garnishes elevate the dish visually and taste-wise with minimal effort.
Side Dishes
Pairing this Beef Tips and Rice Recipe with some crisp green beans, roasted asparagus, or a simple mixed green salad balances the hearty richness with fresh textures. A warm dinner roll or crusty bread is perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce, ensuring none of that tasty gravy goes to waste.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the beef tips and gravy over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option or even mashed potatoes for an ultra-comforting meal. You can also build layered bowls with steamed vegetables and a drizzle of tangy horseradish sauce for added zing and a modern touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your leftover beef tips and rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a perfect next-day meal that tastes just as wonderful as freshly made.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this Beef Tips and Rice Recipe later, freezing is a great option. Place the cooled beef tips and sauce in a freezer-safe container, separate from the cooked rice if possible, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce thickens too much. For the rice, warming in the microwave with a damp paper towel over the top will keep it moist and fluffy.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While stew meat or sirloin tips work best for their tenderness, you can also use chuck roast cut into cubes. Just be sure to simmer long enough for the beef to become tender.
Is it possible to make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, it works wonderfully in a slow cooker! Simply brown the beef, add all ingredients except the cornstarch slurry, and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. Stir in the slurry near the end to thicken.
Can I add vegetables to the beef tips and rice?
Definitely! Mushrooms, bell peppers, or carrots are great additions. Sauté them with the onions to incorporate extra texture and flavor into the dish.
What type of rice is best for this recipe?
Classic white rice is traditional and soaks up the gravy beautifully. However, jasmine or basmati rice will also add a lovely aroma. For a healthier twist, brown rice works, though it will change the texture slightly.
How do I make the sauce thicker if it’s too thin?
If the sauce isn’t thick enough, mix a little extra cornstarch with cold water and stir it in over low heat, cooking until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Final Thoughts
This Beef Tips and Rice Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm embrace after a long day. Its rich flavors, tender beef, and comforting rice make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I can’t recommend enough giving this recipe a try—once you taste it, you’ll want to keep it in your regular dinner rotation!
Print
Beef Tips and Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting American classic, Beef Tips and Rice features tender, seared beef simmered in a flavorful savory gravy and served over fluffy white rice. This hearty dish is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a satisfying family meal.
Ingredients
Beef and Sauce
- 1½ pounds beef stew meat or sirloin tips
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (for thickening)
To Serve
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Sear the Beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef tips and sear on all sides until browned, about 5–6 minutes. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding, ensuring a good crust forms on the meat.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and the onions are softened.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce. Stir in dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet or Dutch oven. Let the beef simmer gently for 45–60 minutes until tender, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if the liquid reduces too much.
- Thicken the Sauce: Once the beef is tender, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook uncovered for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently until the sauce thickens to a gravy consistency.
- Serve: Spoon the beef tips and gravy over warm cooked white rice. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and enjoy your hearty meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add sliced mushrooms or diced bell peppers along with the onions.
- This recipe can be adapted for a slow cooker by browning the beef first, then combining all ingredients except cornstarch in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours, then thicken with cornstarch slurry before serving.
- Use sirloin tips instead of stew meat for a leaner option.
- Adjust the thickness of the gravy by varying the amount of cornstarch slurry added.
