When you think about comfort food, beef tips and gravy is likely one of the first dishes that come to mind. It’s warm, hearty, and rich with savory flavors that instantly satisfy your hunger. But what if we told you there’s a way to make this classic dish even more delicious and quicker than ever before? Enter the Instant Pot. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of making tender, flavorful Instant Pot Beef Tips and Gravy. You’ll discover why this modern twist on a traditional dish is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or any time you crave something comforting without the long cook times.
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What is Instant Pot Beef Tips and Gravy?
Instant Pot beef tips and gravy is a pressure-cooked variation of the classic beef tips and gravy dish. Traditionally, beef tips and gravy is made by simmering tender cuts of beef in a flavorful broth until it becomes tender and the gravy thickens. The Instant Pot simplifies this by using pressure to cook the beef faster while locking in all the rich flavors.
What makes this dish so appealing is its versatility. You can use a variety of beef cuts—stew meat, chuck roast, or even sirloin tips. The beef is then simmered in a savory broth made with ingredients like Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, garlic, and herbs. The result? A dish that’s packed with flavor and perfect for pairing with mashed potatoes, rice, or even crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy.
Why Choose the Instant Pot for Beef Tips and Gravy?
There’s no doubt that beef tips and gravy is a fantastic dish, but its traditional preparation can take hours. That’s where the Instant Pot comes in. By utilizing the pressure cooking function, you can achieve the same tender beef and rich gravy in less than an hour, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.
Here’s why the Instant Pot is the best way to make beef tips and gravy:
- Time-Saving: Instead of simmering for hours, you can cook beef tips in about 30 minutes, freeing up time to focus on other aspects of the meal.
- Tender Beef: The Instant Pot locks in moisture and pressure-cooks the beef to tender perfection, making sure it melts in your mouth.
- Flavor Infusion: Pressure cooking ensures that all the flavors from the broth and seasonings are infused into the beef, creating a rich, savory gravy.
- One-Pot Meal: Cooking everything in one pot reduces the cleanup time and effort, making it easier for you to enjoy a delicious meal without the hassle.
Ingredients for Instant Pot Beef Tips and Gravy
Before diving into the cooking process, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need for this hearty dish.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Beef stew meat or sirloin tips | 2 lbs |
| Onion, chopped | 1 medium |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Beef broth | 2 cups |
| Worcestershire sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Flour or cornstarch | 2 tablespoons |
| Thyme | 1 teaspoon |
| Rosemary (optional) | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
You can also add vegetables like mushrooms or carrots for extra flavor and texture, but that’s optional. These ingredients come together to create a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Instant Pot Beef Tips and Gravy
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Start by cutting your beef into bite-sized pieces, about 1-1.5 inches each. Season with salt, pepper, and any other spices you enjoy, like paprika or garlic powder.
Step 2: Sauté the Beef
- Heat the Instant Pot on the sauté setting and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Once the oil is hot, add the beef pieces in batches. You’ll want to sear the meat on all sides to lock in the flavor and create a rich, brown crust. This step is crucial for adding depth to the dish.
- Remove the beef from the Instant Pot once seared, and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
- Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté them in the residual oil until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. If you want to add extra vegetables, like mushrooms, this is the perfect time to do so.
Step 4: Add Broth and Seasonings
- Return the beef to the pot, and pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Add the thyme, rosemary (if using), and any additional seasoning.
- Stir everything together, making sure the beef is well coated with the flavorful liquid.
Step 5: Pressure Cook
- Lock the Instant Pot lid in place, set the valve to sealing, and choose the Pressure Cook setting. Set the timer for 25 minutes at high pressure.
- Once the timer goes off, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for about 10 minutes before manually releasing the rest.
Step 6: Make the Gravy
- After removing the beef, use the sauté function again to reduce the sauce and thicken the gravy.
- In a small bowl, combine flour or cornstarch with a bit of cold water to make a slurry. Slowly whisk the slurry into the gravy, allowing it to thicken.
- Stir frequently to avoid lumps, and adjust the seasoning to taste.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once the gravy has reached your desired consistency, pour it over the beef tips and serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. This hearty dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Beef Tips and Gravy
1. Choosing the Right Cut of Beef
Not all cuts of beef are suitable for pressure cooking. While you can use sirloin tips or stew meat, chuck roast is a great option for Instant Pot beef tips because it becomes incredibly tender when pressure cooked.
2. Searing the Beef
Searing the beef before pressure cooking is key to developing rich flavors. Don’t skip this step, as it builds the foundation for your gravy and gives your beef tips a deep, savory taste.
3. How to Achieve Tender Beef
To ensure that your beef is perfectly tender, don’t skip the resting period after pressure cooking. Allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure, which helps the meat retain its juiciness and tenderness.
4. Gravy Consistency
If your gravy isn’t thick enough, simply whisk in a bit more cornstarch or flour slurry. If it’s too thick, add a bit more beef broth or water to thin it out. The goal is a rich, smooth gravy that complements the beef perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Instant Pot Beef Tips and Gravy
1. Overcrowding the Instant Pot
The Instant Pot relies on pressure to cook food evenly. If you overcrowd the pot, the beef won’t cook uniformly, and the gravy might not thicken properly. It’s best to cook in batches if necessary.
2. Not Searing the Beef
Failing to sear the beef can result in a lack of depth in the gravy. Searing creates a caramelized crust on the beef, which is essential for building flavor.
3. Not Adjusting the Gravy Consistency
Every recipe can vary slightly based on the thickness of the broth and the meat. Make sure to taste the gravy and adjust the thickness by adding a slurry or extra liquid as needed.
Nutritional Information for Instant Pot Beef Tips and Gravy
Below is an approximation of the nutritional breakdown for a typical serving of Instant Pot Beef Tips and Gravy.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
Dietary Considerations:
- Gluten-Free: To make this recipe gluten-free, use cornstarch instead of flour.
- Keto/Low-Carb: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a slow cooker instead of the Instant Pot?
Yes, if you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can make this dish in a slow cooker. It will take 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high, depending on the size of the beef cuts.
Can I make Instant Pot beef tips and gravy ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the Instant Pot.
Can I freeze Instant Pot beef tips and gravy?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to three months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
What can I serve with Instant Pot beef tips and gravy?
This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or bread to soak up the delicious gravy. You can also serve it alongside vegetables like green beans or roasted carrots.
Conclusion
Instant Pot Beef Tips and Gravy is the perfect solution for a delicious, comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The Instant Pot ensures that your beef is perfectly tender, and the gravy is rich and flavorful. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight, lunch or for a special occasion, this dish will always satisfy your cravings for hearty, home-cooked comfort food.
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