Crockpot beef tips with gravy is the ultimate comforting meal—tender beef tips, rich gravy, and wholesome ingredients come together in the slow cooker with minimal effort. This recipe is packed with protein, naturally gluten-free, and brimming with flavor thanks to savory herbs, mushrooms, and pearl onions. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is as nutritious as it is satisfying.

We developed this recipe to bring you a balanced, comforting dish that fits a variety of dietary goals. After testing countless methods, we found the perfect technique to ensure ultra-tender beef and a smooth, thickened gravy without excess fat or calories. This recipe proves that eating well doesn’t have to mean sacrificing taste or convenience.

Why This Crockpot Beef Tips with Gravy Is Good for You

High in Protein: With 36 grams of protein per serving, this dish supports muscle repair and keeps you satisfied for hours.
Naturally Gluten-Free: Perfect for anyone avoiding gluten, with no artificial thickeners or additives.
Low in Calories: At just 236 calories per serving, it’s a guilt-free option for comfort food.
Rich in Nutrients: Mushrooms and pearl onions add antioxidants, fiber, and immune-boosting benefits.
Slow Cooker Friendly: Save time and effort while still enjoying a rich, slow-cooked flavor.

Wholesome Ingredients for This Crockpot Beef Tips with Gravy

We love how accessible and nutrient-packed the ingredients are for this homemade beef tips and gravy. Here’s why they’re so good for you:

Beef Tips: We recommend cubed sirloin for lean protein and beefy flavor. You can swap for stew meat, but aim for 1- to 2-inch cubes for even cooking.
Pearl Onions: These little gems are loaded with vitamins C and B6 while adding a subtle sweetness to the dish. No need to thaw—use them straight from the freezer.
Mushrooms: Mushrooms add earthy depth and are rich in selenium, which supports your immune system. Use baby bella or white mushrooms, or try shiitake for a fun twist.
Low-Sodium Beef Broth: Keeps the dish heart-healthy and allows you to control the salt content without compromising flavor.

Crockpot Beef Tips with Gravy Recipe Details

Servings: 6 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours (high) or 6-8 hours (low)
Total Time: 4 hours, 10 minutes

Complete Ingredients List

1 tablespoon avocado oil, divided (for Instant Pot version only)
2 lbs. beef tips (cubed sirloin ) or cubed beef stew meat (1- to 2-inch pieces)
1 (12-ounce) bag frozen pearl onions (add while still frozen)
¼ cup tomato paste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon coarse sea salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
8 ounces fresh mushrooms, sliced or coarsely diced
1 ½ cups low-sodium beef broth
2 to 4 tablespoons cornstarch
For serving: Cooked mashed potatoes, mashed parsnips or cauliflower, or noodles
Snipped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

How to Make Crockpot Beef Tips with Gravy

Place the beef tips, frozen pearl onions, tomato paste, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper in a 6- to 7-quart slow cooker. Stir to coat.
Add the sliced mushrooms and pour the beef broth over everything.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6-8 hours, until the beef is tender.
To thicken the gravy, create a cornstarch slurry: Mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with ¼ cup of the hot liquid from the slow cooker in a small bowl, whisking until smooth.
Pour the slurry back into the slow cooker and stir until incorporated. Cover and cook on high for 30 minutes or until the gravy thickens.
If you’d like thicker gravy, repeat the slurry step with an additional 2 tablespoons of cornstarch.
Serve over mashed potatoes, parsnips, or cauliflower, and garnish with parsley if desired.

How to Customize This Crockpot Beef Tips with Gravy for Your Diet

Low-Calorie: Pair with cauliflower mash instead of potatoes to keep the meal light.
Keto-Friendly: Use xanthan gum as a thickener instead of cornstarch.
Vegan: Replace the beef with seitan or jackfruit, and use vegetable stock in place of beef broth.
Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free as written—just double-check your broth’s label for hidden ingredients.

Nutritionist-Approved Tips for Crockpot Beef Tips with Gravy

Browning Optional: If you’d like an extra layer of flavor, sear the beef tips in a hot skillet with avocado oil before adding them to the slow cooker.
Batch Prep: Double the recipe and freeze portions for quick meals down the line.
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to prevent the beef from drying out.
Nutrient Boost: Add chopped carrots or parsnips to sneak in extra fiber and vitamins.

Crockpot Beef Tips with Gravy FAQs

Can I use a different type of beef?

Yes! While we recommend sirloin for its tenderness, stew meat or even chuck roast cut into cubes will also work wonderfully.

What if I don’t have pearl onions?

If you can’t find frozen pearl onions, substitute diced yellow or white onions. They’ll add a similar sweetness.

Can I make this without mushrooms?

Absolutely. The mushrooms add depth, but you can omit them or replace them with diced carrots or celery.

How do I keep this keto-friendly?

Replace the cornstarch with xanthan gum as a thickener and serve over creamy cauliflower mash instead of potatoes or noodles.

What’s the best way to thicken the gravy?

Always use a cornstarch slurry (mix cornstarch with hot liquid before adding) to avoid lumps. You can also reduce the liquid further if desired.

We hope you enjoy making and eating this Crockpot beef tips with gravy as much as we do. What’s your favorite comforting slow cooker recipe? We’d love to hear your ideas in the comments!