The moment I joined my friends for potluck dinners, one thing was clear—everyone craved that cozy, home-cooked feel. That’s why I cherish my Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy recipe: it captures the heart of comfort food in just one hour! With tender beef tips slow-cooked to perfection and rich, savory gravy to match, this dish transforms even the busiest weeknight into a delightful dining experience. Not only is it a hearty, protein-packed main course, but it’s also the ultimate crowd-pleaser, ensuring all your guests leave satisfied. So, are you ready to impress your family or friends with a classic meal that tastes like it took all day? Let’s dive in!

Why Are Instant Pot Recipes So Loved?

Ease of Preparation: This Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy recipe is a game changer! It combines a comforting classic with the convenience of electric cooking, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.

Flavor Packed: The incredible blend of beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning creates a rich, savory gravy that beautifully complements the tender beef.

Versatile Serving Options: Whether you prefer it over fluffy mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles, this dish caters to every palate. Get creative with sides—try pairing it with Parmesan Brussels sprouts or roasted carrots!

Time-Saving Solution: Ready in just an hour, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings, transforming your evening into a delicious affair without the stress.

Nutritious Choice: With about 42g of protein per serving, it’s not just comfort food but a satisfying meal option that’s wholesome and filling, making it ideal for health-conscious diners.

Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy Ingredients

For the Beef Tips

Oil – Provides a cooking medium for browning meat; substitute with olive oil for a healthier option.
Stew Meat (or Cubed Chuck) – The primary protein source; can substitute with chuck roast chopped into chunks.
Salt and Pepper – Enhances flavor to taste; adjust based on dietary needs.

For the Flavor Base

Sweet Onion – Adds sweetness and depth to the dish; can be replaced with yellow onion.
Garlic – Infuses aroma and flavor; can use garlic powder if fresh is not available.
Beef Broth – Provides moisture and richness to the gravy; vegetable broth works for a lighter version.
Worcestershire Sauce – Introduces umami flavor; soy sauce can be a substitute for a different flavor profile.
Bay Leaf – Adds depth to the broth; omit if not available but note that it enhances flavor.
Italian Seasoning – For savory, herby notes; can use a mix of dried oregano and basil if unavailable.
Thyme (fresh/dried) – Further enhances the aroma; omit or replace with dried herbs.

For Thickening the Gravy

Cornstarch and Water – Thicken the gravy; alternatively, a flour-water mix can be used.

For Serving

Mashed Potatoes/Rice/Egg Noodles – Serve as the base; choose according to preference or dietary needs.
Fresh Parsley – Optional for garnish; brightens presentation and adds a fresh touch.

This collection of ingredients for Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy is not just about cooking; it’s the gateway to creating treasured mealtime memories!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy

Step 1: Sauté Beef
Begin by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté function on high heat. Add a splash of oil, then season your stew meat with salt and pepper. Brown the meat in batches for about 5-7 minutes until it’s nicely seared on all sides. Once done, remove the beef tips and set them aside on a plate.

Step 2: Cook Onions and Garlic
In the same pot, add the remaining oil and toss in the diced sweet onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until the onions become translucent and fragrant. Next, add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, allowing its aroma to fill the air as you prepare for the next step.

Step 3: Deglaze the Pot
Pour in the beef broth to deglaze the pot, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. This step is crucial for building flavor in your Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy. Make sure to give it a good stir, ensuring all the flavorful remnants are incorporated into the broth.

Step 4: Pressure Cook the Beef
Return the browned beef tips to the pot and mix in Worcestershire sauce, bay leaf, Italian seasoning, and thyme. Secure the Instant Pot lid and set it to pressure cook on high for 25 minutes. After cooking, allow a natural pressure release for about 10 minutes for the most tender results.

Step 5: Thicken the Gravy
Once the pressure is released, switch the Instant Pot back to sauté mode. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then pour it into the pot. Stir constantly for about 2-3 minutes until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency, enveloping the beef tips in a rich sauce.

Step 6: Serve
Plate generous portions of the beef tips and gravy over your choice of mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. This comforting dish will impress your family or friends, making mealtime feel special. Consider garnishing with fresh parsley for a touch of color and a hint of freshness to your Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy.

What to Serve with Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy

Elevate your hearty meal with delightful pairings that complement the rich flavors of the beef tips and savory gravy.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Silky, buttery mashed potatoes are the classic choice, soaking up the delectable gravy to create pure comfort in every bite.
Steamed Asparagus: Light and vibrant, steamed asparagus balances the richness of the dish with a fresh crunch, offering a delightful contrast.
Garlic Bread: Warm, toasty garlic bread adds a satisfying crunch. Perfect for sopping up every last bit of that savory gravy!
Roasted Carrots: Sweetly caramelized roasted carrots introduce a hint of earthiness and natural sweetness, harmonizing beautifully with the beef tips.
Parmesan Brussels Sprouts: Crisp-tender Brussels sprouts with a sprinkle of Parmesan create a savory, slightly nutty side that brings a delightful texture to your meal.
Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf, infused with herbs and spices, serves as a light yet flavorful base, allowing the beef tips to shine.
Chardonnay or Merlot: A glass of Chardonnay complements the creamy gravy, while Merlot brings out the rich flavors of the beef, making for a perfect dining experience.
Chocolate Cake: For dessert, a slice of decadent chocolate cake adds a luxurious finish, balancing the savory meal with sweet indulgence.

When you bring these sides together, you’ll create an unforgettable dining experience that transforms your Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy into a feast!

How to Store and Freeze Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy

Fridge: Store your Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Always reheat thoroughly before serving for the best taste.
Freezer: You can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, or use the microwave in short intervals, stirring often.
Serving Tip: Freshly cooked mashed potatoes or noodles pair excellently when reheating, ensuring your meal remains comforting and satisfying!

Make Ahead Options

These Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the beef, onions, and garlic, then store them in the refrigerator up to 24 hours in advance to save time during your busy week. Additionally, prepare the cornstarch slurry and keep it covered in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the onions and garlic before following the remaining steps. This ensures each component maintains its quality and flavor, so your dish is just as delicious as if you made it fresh! With these prep instructions, you’ll have hearty comfort food ready to impress with minimal effort.

Expert Tips for Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy

Brown the Meat: Ensure to properly brown the stew meat. This step builds a deep flavor base that elevates the richness of your gravy.
Deglaze Carefully: When adding beef broth, scrape the pot well to incorporate any delicious browned bits. This prevents the burn warning and enhances flavor.
Natural Pressure Release: Always allow for a natural release of pressure post-cooking. This results in incredibly tender beef tips, making your dish even more comforting.
Adjust Thickness: If your gravy isn’t thickening as desired, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry, adding it gradually until you reach your preferred consistency.
Ingredient Substitutions: Don’t hesitate to mix up the herbs or even swap beef broth for vegetable broth for a lighter version of the Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy.
Garnish for Flavor: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only brightens the dish visually but also adds a fresh taste that complements the hearty gravy beautifully.

Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy Variations

Feel free to get creative with this comforting dish, transforming it to suit your tastes and dietary needs!

Vegetarian Option: Use mushroom broth instead of beef for a rich, savory flavor while keeping it meat-free. Add some sautéed mushrooms for extra texture!
Herb Swap: Replace thyme with fresh rosemary or oregano for a completely new herbaceous twist that brightens the dish. The aroma will have everyone curious about your secret ingredient!
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the gravy for a delightful heat that pairs nicely with the tenderness of the beef. It’s the perfect way to wake up your taste buds!
Creamy Addition: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream at the end for a richer, creamier gravy that coats the beef beautifully. It elevates the comfort level to new heights!
Grain Base: Switch up your serving preference by pairing the beef tips with quinoa or farro instead of traditional potatoes or rice. These grains bring a nutty flavor and delightful texture.
Flavor Boost: Stir in a splash of red wine during the deglazing step for a deep, complex flavor layer. It enhances the overall richness of the gravy beautifully.
Slow Cooker Version: If you prefer a slow-cooked taste, adapt this recipe using a crockpot instead. Toss in the same ingredients and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Asian Twist: Add a splash of soy sauce and a teaspoon of ginger for an Asian-inspired flavor, perfect when served with some steamed broccoli or on top of rice noodles. This is a fusion dish that will surprise and delight!

Each of these variations allows you to tailor your Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy for any occasion. Plus, if you’re ever in the mood for something different, you can check out some of my other favorite recipes like Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Dip or Teriyaki Ground Beef Stir Fry for a delightful change!

Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy Recipe FAQs

What type of meat is best for stew?
The best choice for beef tips is stew meat or cubed chuck, as these cuts become tender and flavorful when cooked in the Instant Pot. If you’re looking for an alternative, you can also use chuck roast chopped into chunks, which will provide a similar succulent texture and taste.

How should I store leftovers from Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy?
Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving again—this will ensure every bite is as delightful as when it was first made!

Can I freeze Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy?
Absolutely! To freeze, transfer the cooled beef tips and gravy into a freezer-safe container. It’s best to leave some space at the top for expansion. They can be stored for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

Why did my gravy not thicken properly?
If your gravy didn’t thicken as you expected, you can resolve this easily! Simply mix a couple of tablespoons of cornstarch with equal parts water to create a slurry. Gradually stir this mixture into the pot while on the sauté setting, and cook for about 2-3 minutes. This will help your gravy reach that perfect consistency.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Certainly! To make Instant Pot Beef Tips & Gravy gluten-free, ensure that the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce you use are gluten-free. For thickening, substitute cornstarch with a gluten-free alternative like arrowroot powder. This will keep the dish hearty and satisfying without the gluten!