Nothing beats the comfort of tender beef tips simmered in rich gravy and served over fluffy rice. This one-pot wonder transforms affordable cuts of beef into a restaurant-quality meal that’ll have your family asking for seconds. We’ve perfected this recipe to deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Beef tips and rice has been a beloved American comfort food for generations. The secret lies in slow-cooking the beef until it’s fork-tender while building layers of savory flavor through proper browning and seasoning. Our version uses simple pantry staples to create a hearty dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sunday dinners.
What makes this recipe special is how the beef becomes incredibly tender while the rice absorbs all those delicious pan juices. We’ll show you exactly how to achieve that perfect texture and bold flavor that makes this dish so irresistible. Get ready to create a meal that’s both satisfying and surprisingly easy.
Ingredients
We’ve carefully selected ingredients that create maximum flavor with minimal effort. These pantry staples and fresh components work together to build the rich and savory dish our readers love.
For the Beef Tips
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 2-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Rice
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Gravy
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/4 cup cold water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Equipment Needed
Creating this hearty beef tips and rice recipe requires a few essential pieces of equipment that most home kitchens already have. We’ll walk you through each tool you’ll need to achieve perfectly tender beef and fluffy rice.
A large skillet or Dutch oven serves as our primary cooking vessel for searing the beef and building the flavorful gravy. The heavy bottom distributes heat evenly and prevents hot spots that could burn our ingredients. Dutch ovens work particularly well because their tight-fitting lids help retain moisture during the slow simmering process.
Measuring cups and spoons ensure accuracy when adding ingredients like flour for thickening and seasonings for optimal flavor. Precise measurements make the difference between a perfectly balanced gravy and one that’s too thick or under seasoned.
A wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula becomes indispensable for stirring our beef and vegetables without scratching the cooking surface. These tools also handle the heat well when we’re building our gravy base.
For the rice component, we need either a medium saucepan with a tight-fitting lid or a rice cooker. Both options work effectively, though a rice cooker offers the convenience of set-it-and-forget-it cooking while we focus on the beef tips.
A mixing bowl comes in handy when we create our flour slurry to thicken the gravy. This separate bowl prevents lumps from forming and ensures smooth incorporation into our simmering liquid.
Finally, a sharp knife and cutting board are essential for cubing our beef into uniform 1-inch pieces and chopping our vegetables. Consistent sizing ensures even cooking throughout the dish.
| Equipment | Primary Use | Alternative Option |
|---|---|---|
| Dutch oven/Large skillet | Searing beef, making gravy | Heavy-bottomed pot |
| Rice cooker/Medium pot | Cooking rice | Instant Pot rice function |
| Wooden spoon | Stirring without scratching | Heat-resistant spatula |
| Sharp knife | Cutting beef and vegetables | Chef’s knife |
| Mixing bowl | Creating flour slurry | Small bowl |
Prep Work
We’ll tackle the preparation in two stages to ensure our beef tips turn out perfectly tender and flavorful. Proper prep work sets the foundation for building layers of rich taste throughout our dish.
Preparing the Beef
Start by cutting 2 pounds of beef chuck roast into uniform 1-inch cubes for even cooking. Pat each piece completely dry with paper towels since moisture prevents proper browning.
Season the beef generously with salt and black pepper on all sides. For extra depth of flavor we can add Creole seasoning to the mix. Dredge each piece lightly in flour if desired which helps create a beautiful crust and naturally thickens our gravy later.
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in our Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the butter stops foaming we know it’s ready for searing. Brown the beef cubes in batches without overcrowding the pan. Each side needs about 2 minutes to develop that gorgeous golden crust that locks in all the savory juices.
Preparing the Vegetables
Dice 1½ cups of onion into uniform pieces for consistent cooking while the beef browns. Mince 2 teaspoons of fresh garlic and 2 teaspoons of fresh thyme leaves finely to release maximum flavor.
After removing our perfectly seared beef we’ll use the same pot with all those delicious browned bits still clinging to the bottom. Sauté the diced onions in the remaining fat for 7-8 minutes until they become soft and translucent. Add our minced garlic and thyme during the final minute of cooking to prevent burning while allowing their aromatic oils to bloom.
Instructions
We’ll cook this delicious beef tips and rice recipe in six simple steps that build layers of flavor. Our method ensures perfectly tender beef and fluffy rice every time.
Step 1: Season and Sear the Beef
Pat the beef cubes completely dry with paper towels to ensure proper browning. Season generously with salt, pepper, and Creole seasoning if using. Heat olive oil and butter in our Dutch oven over medium-high heat until the butter stops foaming. Add the seasoned beef cubes in a single layer without overcrowding the pot. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until each piece develops a golden brown crust on all sides. This browning step creates rich flavor compounds and helps seal in the meat’s natural juices. Remove the browned beef to a plate and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the diced onion to the same pot with the remaining drippings from the beef. Cook for 7-8 minutes while stirring occasionally until the onion becomes translucent and softened. The onion will pick up the flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Add the minced garlic and fresh thyme to the softened onions. Sauté for an additional minute until the garlic becomes fragrant and aromatic. This combination creates our flavor foundation for the entire dish.
Step 3: Create the Gravy Base
Pour white wine into the pot to deglaze and scrape up any remaining browned bits with a wooden spoon. Let the wine simmer for 1-2 minutes to cook off the alcohol. Add beef broth, bouillon powder, and Worcestershire sauce to the pot. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. This liquid base will transform into our rich gravy as the beef cooks.
Step 4: Slow Cook the Beef Tips
Return the seared beef tips to the pot along with any accumulated juices. The liquid should partially cover the beef pieces. Cover the pot and simmer on low heat for 30-40 minutes until the beef becomes fork-tender. For maximum tenderness, we can extend the cooking time up to 2 hours. Add sliced mushrooms during the last 15 minutes of cooking if desired. Check occasionally and add more broth if the liquid level gets too low.
Step 5: Prepare the Rice
Start cooking the rice about 20 minutes before the beef finishes cooking. Bring 2 cups of beef broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the rice, butter, and salt to the boiling broth. Reduce heat to low and cover tightly. Simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice absorbs all the liquid and becomes fluffy. Remove from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
Step 6: Final Assembly
Whisk together 2 tablespoons of flour with 3 tablespoons of cold water to create a smooth slurry. Stir the flour mixture into the simmering beef and gravy while whisking constantly. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the gravy thickens to coat the back of a spoon. Adjust the consistency by adding more broth if too thick or simmering longer if too thin. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve the tender beef tips and rich gravy over portions of fluffy rice. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a bright finishing touch.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Beef Tips and Rice
Mastering beef tips and rice requires attention to detail and proper technique. We’ve compiled these essential tips to help you achieve restaurant-quality results every time.
Brown the Beef Properly
Heat oil and butter in a heavy pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. We recommend browning the beef tips in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook each batch for about 3 minutes per side until a golden crust forms. This crucial step develops deep flavor that forms the foundation of our dish.
Build Flavor with Aromatics
After browning the beef, we sauté onions and bell peppers in the same pot until tender. Add minced garlic during the final minute of cooking to prevent burning. These aromatics create the flavor base that infuses throughout the entire dish.
Create a Perfect Roux
Sprinkle flour over the sautéed vegetables to create a roux. We cook this mixture briefly to remove the raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce while stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
Simmer Low and Slow
Return the browned beef and any accumulated juices to the pot. We bring the gravy to a boil then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until the beef becomes fork-tender. Low and slow cooking breaks down connective tissue and creates incredibly tender meat.
Time Your Rice Perfectly
Start cooking your rice 15 to 20 minutes before the beef finishes cooking. We recommend cooking rice separately to maintain proper texture. This timing ensures both components finish simultaneously for optimal serving temperature.
Adjust Seasoning at the End
Season the dish to taste during the final 10 minutes of cooking. We add salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings after the beef has tenderized. Early seasoning can make the gravy too salty as it reduces during cooking.
Thicken Gravy as Needed
Create a slurry with flour and cold water if additional thickening is required. We gradually stir this mixture into the simmering gravy until it reaches the desired consistency. The gravy should coat the back of a spoon when properly thickened.
| Cooking Time | Temperature | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 1.5-2 hours | Low simmer | Fork-tender beef |
| 15-20 minutes | Medium heat | Fluffy rice |
| 3 minutes per side | Medium-high | Golden crust |
Serving Suggestions
We recommend serving our beef tips over a generous bed of fluffy white or brown rice to maximize the absorption of that rich, savory gravy. The rice acts as the perfect vehicle for soaking up every drop of the flavorful pan juices that develop during the slow-cooking process.
For a complete comfort meal, we suggest pairing the dish with steamed vegetables such as green beans, carrots, or broccoli. These additions provide a fresh contrast to the rich beef and help balance the overall meal. Moist cornbread makes an excellent accompaniment, offering a slightly sweet complement to the savory beef tips while providing additional texture variety.
Our beef tips adapt beautifully to different serving styles beyond traditional rice. We often serve them over creamy mashed potatoes for an extra indulgent presentation, or spooned over wide egg noodles when we want a heartier base. Toasted crusty bread works wonderfully for a more rustic approach, allowing diners to soak up the gravy with each bite.
| Serving Base | Best Pairing | Portion Size |
|---|---|---|
| White Rice | Steamed vegetables | ½ cup rice per serving |
| Brown Rice | Cornbread | ½ cup rice per serving |
| Egg Noodles | Green salad | 1 cup noodles per serving |
| Mashed Potatoes | Roasted vegetables | ¾ cup potatoes per serving |
We find that garnishing with fresh chopped parsley adds a bright pop of color and freshness that cuts through the richness of the gravy. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper just before serving enhances the overall flavor profile. For those who enjoy extra richness, a pat of butter melted over the hot rice creates an even more luxurious base for the beef tips.
The versatility of this dish makes it suitable for both casual weeknight dinners and more formal Sunday meals. We often prepare extra portions since the leftovers reheat beautifully and the flavors continue to develop overnight in the refrigerator.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Proper storage keeps your beef tips and rice fresh and safe for future meals. We recommend allowing leftovers to cool to room temperature within 2 hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth. Once cooled, transfer the beef tips and gravy to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
Refrigeration Guidelines
Store cooked rice separately in its own airtight container when refrigerating leftovers. This prevents the rice from absorbing excess moisture from the gravy and maintains better texture. Both components will maintain their quality in the refrigerator for 3-4 days when stored properly.
Freezing for Long-Term Storage
Freeze beef tips and gravy in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2-3 months. Leave some headspace in containers to allow for expansion during freezing. We suggest labeling containers with the date to track storage time. Cooked rice freezes separately since its texture changes when frozen with the gravy.
| Storage Method | Duration | Temperature Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | 3-4 days | 40°F or below |
| Freezing | 2-3 months | 0°F or below |
| Room Temperature | Maximum 2 hours | Before refrigeration |
Reheating Refrigerated Leftovers
Reheat refrigerated beef tips in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through to 165°F. Add a splash of beef broth or water if the sauce becomes too thick during reheating. Rice reheats best when you add a small amount of water before microwaving to prevent drying out.
Reheating Frozen Portions
Thaw frozen beef tips overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for even warming. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat while stirring occasionally. Add beef broth or water as needed to maintain the desired gravy consistency throughout the reheating process.
Always ensure reheated leftovers reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F before serving. Never store cooked beef tips or rice at room temperature for more than 2 hours to maintain food safety standards.
Recipe Variations
We love adapting this classic beef tips and rice recipe to suit different tastes and cooking preferences. These variations maintain the core comfort food appeal while adding unique flavors and textures to keep the dish exciting.
Mushroom Beef Tips and Rice
Sliced mushrooms transform our beef tips recipe into an even more savory and earthy dish. We sauté the mushrooms alongside the onions during the cooking process to allow their natural flavors to meld perfectly with the beef. The mushrooms release their moisture and absorb the rich pan drippings while adding a meaty texture that complements the tender beef cubes.
Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot after browning the beef and before deglazing with wine or broth. We recommend using button mushrooms or baby bella mushrooms for the best flavor development. The mushrooms will shrink during cooking and create additional depth in the gravy that pairs beautifully with fluffy rice.
Creamy Beef Tips Version
Our creamy variation elevates the traditional recipe by incorporating rich dairy elements for an indulgent twist. We stir in heavy cream, half and half, or sour cream after the sauce has thickened to create a luxurious gravy that coats each piece of beef. This version delivers restaurant quality richness that makes the dish feel more special for dinner parties or weekend meals.
Add the cream during the final minutes of cooking to prevent curdling from excessive heat. We gently fold in the dairy component and adjust seasoning as needed since cream can mellow the salt and spice levels. The creamy gravy creates an even more satisfying sauce that the rice readily absorbs.
Instant Pot Adaptation
We can dramatically reduce cooking time using an Instant Pot while maintaining the same tender results and rich flavors. Use the sauté function to brown the beef cubes, onions, and garlic directly in the pressure cooker pot. Add mushrooms during this step if desired, then pour in the beef broth and seasonings.
| Cooking Method | Time Required | Pressure Setting |
|---|---|---|
| Instant Pot | 20 minutes | High pressure |
| Natural Release | 10-15 minutes | Automatic |
| Stovetop Method | 60-90 minutes | Low simmer |
Seal the Instant Pot and pressure cook on high for 20 minutes, then allow natural pressure release for optimal tenderness. We switch back to the sauté function after releasing pressure to thicken the sauce with a flour and water slurry. This method delivers the same fork tender beef in a fraction of the traditional cooking time.
Make-Ahead Instructions
We love preparing this beef tips and rice recipe ahead of time for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests. The dish actually improves in flavor when made in advance and stored properly.
Preparing the Beef Tips and Gravy
Our beef tips and gravy can be fully prepared up to 3 days before serving. Cook the recipe completely through the simmering stage until the beef reaches fork-tender perfection. Allow the mixture to cool completely to room temperature before transferring to airtight containers for refrigeration. We recommend storing the beef and gravy together since they maintain better moisture and flavor integration.
Rice Preparation Options
Rice offers more flexibility in our make-ahead approach since we can prepare it separately. Cook the rice according to package directions and let it cool completely before storing in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. We suggest adding a sprinkle of water when reheating and covering the container to create steam for optimal texture restoration.
Reheating for Best Results
When ready to serve our make-ahead beef tips we reheat the mixture gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat while stirring occasionally. The gravy may thicken during storage so we add a splash of beef broth or water to achieve the desired consistency. Heat the mixture until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
Assembly Day Strategy
We find the most efficient approach involves reheating the rice first since it warms quickly in the microwave or on the stovetop. While the rice heats we warm the beef tips and gravy in a separate pan allowing us to monitor both components simultaneously. This method ensures everything reaches the perfect serving temperature at the same time.
Flavor Enhancement Tips
Our make-ahead beef tips often develop deeper flavors overnight as the seasonings continue to meld. We taste and adjust the seasoning after reheating since some flavors may need refreshing. Fresh parsley added just before serving brightens the dish and provides the perfect finishing touch to our prepared meal.
Conclusion
We’ve shown you how this classic beef tips and rice recipe delivers maximum comfort with minimal effort. The combination of tender slow-cooked beef and fluffy rice creates a meal that’s both satisfying and budget-friendly.
What makes this dish truly special is its versatility – whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or preparing a make-ahead meal for the weekend. The rich gravy ties everything together while the simple ingredients make it accessible to any home cook.
This recipe proves that you don’t need complicated techniques or expensive ingredients to create something delicious. With proper browning and slow cooking you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal right from your own kitchen that’ll become a family favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to cook beef tips until tender?
Beef tips should be slow-cooked for 1.5 to 2 hours on low heat to achieve fork-tender results. The key is maintaining a gentle simmer rather than a rolling boil. Properly browned beef cubes will break down beautifully during this time, absorbing all the delicious flavors from the gravy.
Can I use a different cut of beef instead of chuck roast?
Yes, you can substitute chuck roast with other tough cuts like beef stew meat, bottom round, or shoulder roast. These cuts benefit from slow cooking and will become tender when braised. Avoid lean cuts like sirloin or tenderloin, as they’ll become tough and dry with long cooking times.
What type of rice works best with beef tips?
Long-grain white rice is ideal because it stays fluffy and separate while absorbing the flavorful beef juices. You can also use brown rice, jasmine rice, or basmati rice. Cook the rice in beef broth instead of water for enhanced flavor that complements the rich gravy perfectly.
How do I thicken the gravy if it’s too thin?
Create a slurry by mixing 2 tablespoons of flour with 3 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Gradually whisk this mixture into the simmering gravy and cook for 2-3 minutes until thickened. Alternatively, you can simmer the gravy uncovered to reduce and concentrate the flavors naturally.
Can I make beef tips and rice in an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! Brown the beef using the sauté function, then add remaining ingredients and pressure cook on high for 20 minutes with natural release. This method reduces cooking time significantly while maintaining the tender texture and rich flavors of the traditional slow-cooked version.
How should I store leftover beef tips and rice?
Store cooled leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep the beef tips and rice in separate containers to maintain the rice’s texture. For longer storage, freeze the beef tips and gravy for up to 3 months, but avoid freezing cooked rice.
What vegetables pair well with beef tips and rice?
Steamed broccoli, green beans, carrots, or peas complement this dish perfectly. You can also add mushrooms directly to the beef tips while cooking for extra flavor. Roasted vegetables or a simple side salad provide nice contrast to the rich, hearty main dish.
Can I prepare beef tips and rice ahead of time?
Yes, this dish is perfect for meal prep. The beef tips and gravy can be made up to 3 days in advance and actually improve in flavor overnight. Store the rice separately and reheat both components gently, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore moisture.
