Instant Pot Beef Tips with Gravy

No matter the occasion, Instant Pot Beef Tips with Gravy is a comforting and flavorful dish that impresses everyone at the table. This recipe combines tender beef tips simmered in a rich gravy, making it perfect for family dinners, special gatherings, or cozy nights in. The Instant Pot ensures your beef is cooked to perfection, while the deep sear and deglazing process enriches the flavors. Serve this hearty meal over mashed potatoes or noodles for an unforgettable dining experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Cooking: The Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time while ensuring tender results.
• Flavorful Gravy: The combination of apple vinegar and beef broth creates a luscious gravy that enhances every bite.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these beef tips over mashed potatoes, polenta, or even rice for a delightful meal.
• Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is approachable for cooks of all levels.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch ahead of time to enjoy throughout the week or freeze for later use.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools for making this recipe effortlessly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Instant Pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Instant Pot: This multi-cooker not only speeds up cooking but also locks in moisture and flavor.
• Wooden Spoon: Ideal for scraping up browned bits during deglazing without damaging your pot’s surface.
• Sharp Knife: A good knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring even cooking.

Ingredients

To make delicious Instant Pot Beef Tips with Gravy, you’ll need the following:

• 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”)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• ½ cup dry red or white grape juice (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

How to Make Instant Pot Beef Tips with Gravy

Step 1: Prepare the Meat

Pat the meat very dry, then season all over with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

Press the Saute button on the Instant Pot; if your model allows for temperature settings, program to medium and set the timer for 30 minutes. Pour in the olive oil and allow it to heat until shimmering.
* Add one-third of the beef pieces in a single layer.
* Sear for about 3 minutes until golden brown.
* Remove with tongs or a slotted spoon; repeat with remaining batches.

Step 3: Cook Onions and Garlic

Add butter to the pot; once melted and foamy:
* Toss in diced onions and minced garlic.
* Sauté for about 1 minute while stirring constantly.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pot

Pour in apple vinegar:
* Use a wooden spoon to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
* Continue cooking until bubbling stops, ensuring a clean pot base.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Press Cancel to stop sautéing. Return seared beef along with juices:
* Pour in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce; stir well.
* Top with fresh thyme and bay leaf.

Step 6: Pressure Cook

Seal the Instant Pot:
* Program it to High Pressure for 25 minutes.
* Allow about 10 minutes for pressure buildup. After cooking, let it release naturally for another 15 minutes before releasing any remaining pressure manually.

Step 7: Thicken Gravy

In a small bowl, whisk water and cornstarch until smooth:
* Open Instant Pot lid carefully away from you to avoid steam.
* Pour cornstarch slurry into pot; stir until smooth.
* Press Saute again; simmer for about 5–15 minutes until gravy thickens. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 8: Serve

Serve immediately over your choice of mashed potatoes, polenta, or egg noodles. Enjoy your delicious meal!

How to Serve Instant Pot Beef Tips with Gravy

Serving Instant Pot Beef Tips with Gravy can be a delightful experience for family and friends. The rich, savory flavor of the beef tips pairs wonderfully with various side dishes and garnishes that enhance the meal.

Over Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes create the perfect base for soaking up the flavorful gravy, making each bite deliciously satisfying.

With Egg Noodles

• Tender egg noodles tossed in butter complement the beef tips and gravy beautifully, adding a comforting touch to your dinner table.

On a Bed of Polenta

• Creamy polenta offers a unique twist, providing a smooth texture that pairs well with the hearty beef tips and thick gravy.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnishing your dish with chopped fresh parsley or thyme adds a pop of color and enhances the flavor profile of the beef tips.

Accompanied by Crusty Bread

• Serve some warm, crusty bread on the side to mop up any leftover gravy, ensuring none of that delicious sauce goes to waste.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Beef Tips with Gravy

Perfecting your Instant Pot Beef Tips with Gravy takes just a few simple steps. These tips will help you achieve tender meat and rich flavors every time.

• Sear Thoroughly: Make sure to sear your beef tips until they are golden brown. This step adds depth of flavor through caramelization.
• Deglaze Properly: Use apple vinegar to deglaze the pot after sautéing. This helps lift all those flavorful bits stuck at the bottom.
• Natural Pressure Release: Allow the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally for 15 minutes. This technique keeps the beef tender and juicy.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your gravy before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed. A little tweak can elevate the entire dish.
• Thicken Sauce Wisely: If you prefer a thicker gravy, let it simmer longer after adding cornstarch slurry until it reaches your desired consistency.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Beef Tips with Gravy

Pairing side dishes with Instant Pot Beef Tips with Gravy enhances your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic provide a flavorful base that complements the intense beef flavors.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrition while balancing out the richness of the beef dish.
3. Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots bring out natural sugars that contrast nicely with savory flavors in this dish.
4. Green Beans Almondine: Crisp green beans tossed with toasted almonds add crunch and freshness, making them an ideal sidekick.
5. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that absorbs sauces well without overwhelming flavors; it’s light yet satisfying.
6. Herbed Quinoa: Nutty quinoa cooked with herbs makes for a protein-packed side that complements the heartiness of beef tips.
7. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw provides a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully against tender beef tips in gravy.
8. Baked Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of baked sweet potatoes enhances savory notes, offering both taste and nutrition on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your cooking experience and ensure your Instant Pot Beef Tips with Gravy turns out perfectly.

• Inadequate searing – Not searing the beef properly can lead to a lack of flavor. Ensure you sear the meat until golden brown to create a rich taste.
• Skipping the deglazing step – Failing to deglaze the pot can result in burnt bits and uneven flavor. Always use a good quality apple vinegar to scrape up any browned bits after sautéing.
• Incorrect pressure release – Quickly releasing pressure may toughen the meat. Allow for natural pressure release for at least 15 minutes to ensure tenderness.
• Not using enough liquid – Insufficient liquid can prevent proper cooking and lead to burning. Always follow the recipe’s liquid requirements for best results.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments – Seasoning is crucial for flavor. Taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Instant Pot Beef Tips with Gravy

• Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instant Pot Beef Tips with Gravy

• Oven – Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat in short bursts, stirring occasionally, until hot.
• Stovetop – Gently reheat on low heat in a saucepan, stirring regularly to avoid sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Instant Pot Beef Tips with Gravy?

Instant Pot Beef Tips with Gravy are tender pieces of beef cooked quickly in a flavorful gravy made from broth and seasonings, resulting in a comforting dish.

How do I make Instant Pot Beef Tips with Gravy?

Follow the recipe instructions, ensuring you sear the meat, deglaze properly, and cook under high pressure for optimal tenderness.

Can I customize my Instant Pot Beef Tips with Gravy?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or mushrooms or switch up seasonings according to your taste preferences.

What sides pair well with Instant Pot Beef Tips with Gravy?

Serve these delicious beef tips over mashed potatoes, polenta, or egg noodles for a satisfying meal that soaks up the gravy beautifully.

How long does it take to cook Instant Pot Beef Tips with Gravy?

The total time from prep to finish is about 85 minutes, including pressure building time and natural release.

Final Thoughts

Instant Pot Beef Tips with Gravy is an easy yet impressive dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any dinner table. Its rich flavors allow room for customization based on personal preferences or what you have on hand. Try this recipe today—you’ll love how versatile it is!