Name: Easy Instant Pot Beef Tips with Gravy Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 10 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2.5 pounds stew meat or beef tips; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 teaspoon ground pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 large Vidalia (sweet) onion, diced to 1 inch; 4 cloves garlic, minced; ½ cup dry red or white wine (or additional broth); 2 cups low sodium beef broth; ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce; 2 sprigs fresh thyme, bundled with kitchen twine; 1 whole bay leaf; 3 tablespoons cornstarch; 3 tablespoons water

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There is something truly comforting about a rich, tender beef dish that comes together quickly and easily. This Easy Instant Pot Beef Tips with Gravy Recipe is exactly that kind of meal, offering juicy, flavorful beef smothered in a luscious homemade gravy that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish takes simple ingredients and transforms them into an unforgettable, hearty feast that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl filled with many pieces of raw red meat cut into medium-sized cubes, some showing white fat marbling. The meat is sprinkled with coarse salt and black pepper, making the surface textured with small white and black specks. The bowl is on a white marbled surface, adding a soft contrast to the rich red color of the meat. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the deep flavors and velvety texture of the gravy. From the fresh thyme to the savory Worcestershire sauce, every component is essential to make this dish incredible.

2.5 pounds stew meat or beef tips: Choose tender cuts for the juiciest results and even cooking.

1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the beef without overwhelming them.
1 teaspoon ground pepper: Adds a subtle kick and rounds out the savory base.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Perfect for creating a sizzling sear that locks in juices.

2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Enriches the gravy and gives a silky finish.
1 large Vidalia onion (diced): Sweet onions bring a mild, natural sweetness that balances the dish.
4 cloves garlic (minced): Adds a fragrant depth that elevates the savory notes.

½ cup dry red or white wine: Use your favorite; it brightens the flavor and deglazes the pot beautifully.
2 cups low sodium beef broth: A rich liquid base that infuses every bite with meaty goodness.
¼ cup Worcestershire sauce: Brings umami and complexity to the gravy.

2 sprigs fresh thyme: Fresh herbs add a subtle earthiness that complements the beef perfectly.
1 whole bay leaf: Infuses the sauce with fragrant warmth during cooking.
3 tablespoons cornstarch: Essential for thickening the gravy to that perfect consistency.

3 tablespoons water: Mixed with cornstarch to create a smooth slurry for thickening.

How to Make Easy Instant Pot Beef Tips with Gravy Recipe

Inside a black pot with a shiny silver rim, there is a rich stew with three main layers visible: a golden-brown broth on the top that has a slightly oily shine, chunks of pinkish cooked meat scattered throughout, and translucent diced onions mixed in both the broth and meat. On the surface, a large pale green bay leaf lies flat on the left side while a small tied bunch of fresh green thyme rests on the right. Tiny herb pieces and small bubbles float around in the liquid. The pot sits on a white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Beef

Start by patting the beef tips very dry to ensure a great sear, then generously season them with kosher salt and ground pepper. This simple step unlocks the savory flavor that makes this dish unforgettable.

Step 2: Sear the Beef in the Instant Pot

Using the “Saute” function on medium heat, warm the olive oil until it shimmers. Brown the beef tips in batches, making sure each piece forms a golden crust—this caramelization adds incredible depth of flavor that will shine through in the final dish.

Step 3: Cook Onions and Garlic

After removing the browned beef, melt butter right in the pot, then toss in the diced Vidalia onion and minced garlic. Saute for about a minute while stirring constantly until fragrant and slightly softened—this base builds aromatic layers essential to the gravy.

Step 4: Deglaze with Wine

Pour in your choice of dry red or white wine, and use a wooden spoon to scrape up every flavorful brown bit stuck to the bottom. This step cleans the pot while infusing the dish with rich, complex notes that alcohol helps release.

Step 5: Add Liquids, Herbs, and Return Beef

Cancel the saute cycle and add the seared beef pieces back into the pot along with any juices they released. Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, then nestle in the thyme sprigs and bay leaf. This aromatic bath sets the stage for perfectly tender beef.

Step 6: Pressure Cook Until Tender

Seal the Instant Pot and set it to high pressure for 25 minutes. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 15 minutes afterward—this gradual cooldown ensures the beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender without drying out.

Step 7: Thicken the Gravy

Create a cornstarch slurry by whisking cornstarch with water until smooth. Remove the lid carefully, then stir the slurry into the pot. Use the saute function again to simmer and thicken the gravy until it coats the back of a spoon beautifully. Adjust seasoning if needed.

How to Serve Easy Instant Pot Beef Tips with Gravy Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh thyme sprigs or a sprinkle of chopped parsley add a burst of color and brightness that contrasts beautifully with the rich gravy. For an extra touch, a dollop of creamy horseradish or a few sautéed mushrooms can elevate the dish even further.

Side Dishes

This dish shines when paired with creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy egg noodles, or even a smooth polenta. These sides soak up the savory gravy perfectly, making every bite comforting and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a homestyle dinner, pile the beef tips on a heaping bed of mashed potatoes. If you want to impress guests, serve the beef tips atop buttery garlic toast rounds as an appetizer or elegant main course. No matter how you serve it, this Easy Instant Pot Beef Tips with Gravy Recipe always steals the show.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover beef tips with gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This prevents moisture loss and keeps all the flavors locked in for an equally delicious second meal.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully. Simply transfer cooled beef tips and gravy into a freezer-safe container and store for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight for best results.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can add a splash of broth or water if the gravy thickens too much during storage to bring back that perfect consistency.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

Absolutely! While stew meat or beef tips are ideal for tenderness and quick cooking, you can use chuck roast cut into cubes for equally delicious results. Just make sure to cut it into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.

Do I have to use wine in this recipe?

Not at all. If you prefer not to use alcohol, substitute the wine with an equal amount of beef broth. The wine does add a unique depth, but the gravy will still be rich and flavorful without it.

How thick should the gravy be?

The gravy should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still pourable. Feel free to simmer longer if you want it thicker or add more broth if it becomes too thick after standing.

Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for stovetop or slow cooker methods, though cooking times will be longer. The Instant Pot just makes the beef incredibly tender in less time while developing fantastic gravy.

Is this dish suitable for family dinners?

Definitely! Its richness and classic flavors make it a hearty crowd-pleaser loved by all ages, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Instant Pot Beef Tips with Gravy Recipe proves that you can have a comforting, gourmet-quality meal without hours in the kitchen. From the first savory bite to the last, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Trust me, once you try it, it will become a beloved staple in your dinner rotation!