Pioneer Woman Beef Tips And Gravy: 2 New Twists

There’s a certain magic in a dish that feels like a warm hug, and for me, Pioneer Woman Beef Tips and Gravy embodies that perfectly. I remember the very first time I slow-cooked beef tips until they were melt-in-your-mouth tender, swimming in a rich, savory gravy – it was an instant family favorite. But even the best classics can get a fresh spin! I’ve been experimenting, and I’m thrilled to share two exciting twists that elevate this beloved comfort food from fantastic to absolutely unforgettable. If you’re ready to rediscover a classic, you’re in for a treat.

What Makes This Recipe Special

You might be thinking, “Beef tips and gravy is already amazing, why mess with perfection?” And you’d be right, it is amazing! But these two new twists aren’t about reinventing the wheel; they’re about adding layers of unexpected flavor and texture that transform a comforting classic into something truly gourmet. We’re talking about taking those tender, slow-cooked beef morsels and that velvety gravy to new heights. It’s perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave something hearty, or when you want to impress dinner guests without spending hours fussy cooking.

> “I usually stick to the original recipe, but these twists sound incredible! I can’t wait to try the mushroom and red wine version – that sounds like a game-changer for a dinner party.” – A fellow comfort food enthusiast

The Cooking Process Explained

Making Pioneer Woman Beef Tips and Gravy, even with these delightful twists, generally follows a familiar and comforting path. First, you’ll sear your beef tips to lock in all that delicious flavor, creating a beautiful crust. Then, you’ll build your rich gravy base directly in the same pot, soaking up all those browned bits (the “fond” – that’s where the flavor lives!). After that, it’s a slow and steady simmer, allowing the beef to tenderize and the flavors to meld beautifully. The “twists” primarily come into play during the simmering stage and with some final flavor enhancers, adding an exciting dimension to the classic.

Key Ingredients

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to a truly delicious meal. While the core remains the same, each twist introduces a few stars of its own.

For the Classic Base:

• 2 lbs beef stew meat or sirloin tips, cut into 1-inch pieces (I find sirloin tips get wonderfully tender)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth (low sodium is best so you can control the seasoning)
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup (Ree’s secret to that creamy richness!)
• 1 packet (0.87 oz) dry onion soup mix (Another flavor bomb!)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water (for thickening, if needed)

Twist 1: Smoky & Spicy Chipotle Ranch

• 1 Chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced (or 1 tsp chipotle powder for less heat)
• 1 tbsp Ranch seasoning mix (dry powder)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (added at the end for extra richness)
• Fresh cilantro or chives, for garnish

Twist 2: Hearty Mushroom & Red Wine

• 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 1/2 cup dry red wine (like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (added at the end for brightness)
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Directions to Follow

Let’s dive into making these incredible beef tips. Pick your twist, and let’s get cooking!

Classic Base Preparation:

1. Sear the Beef: Pat the beef tips dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. In batches, sear the beef until beautifully browned on all sides. Don’t overcrowd the pot, or the beef will steam instead of sear. Remove seared beef to a plate and set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Reduce heat to medium. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Deglaze and Build Base: Pour in the beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any remaining flavorful bits. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and the dry onion soup mix. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Now, for Your Chosen Twist:

Twist 1: Smoky & Spicy Chipotle Ranch

1. Combine Flavors: Return the seared beef tips to the pot. Stir in the minced chipotle pepper (or powder) and the dry Ranch seasoning mix.
2. Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender. Check periodically to ensure there’s enough liquid.
3. Finish & Thicken (Optional): Once beef is tender, stir in the heavy cream. If the gravy isn’t as thick as you’d like, slowly whisk in the cornstarch slurry until desired consistency is reached. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring, until thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh cilantro or chives.

Twist 2: Hearty Mushroom & Red Wine

1. Sauté Mushrooms: After sautéing the onion and garlic in the classic base step, add the sliced cremini mushrooms to the pot. Cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the red wine and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes to burn off some of the alcohol.
3. Combine & Simmer: Return the seared beef tips to the pot. Stir in the chopped fresh thyme. Add the beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, and dry onion soup mix.
4. Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender.
5. Finish & Thicken (Optional): Once beef is tender, stir in the balsamic vinegar. If the gravy isn’t as thick as you’d like, slowly whisk in the cornstarch slurry until desired consistency is reached. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring, until thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Both of these Pioneer Woman Beef Tips and Gravy twists are hearty meals on their own, but they truly shine when paired with the right accompaniments.

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: This is the quintessential pairing. The fluffy potatoes soak up every last drop of that incredible gravy.
• Egg Noodles: Another classic comfort choice, perfect for twirling through the rich sauce.
• Rice: White rice or brown rice provides a neutral base that lets the gravy’s flavors stand out.
• Crusty Bread: Don’t forget something to sop up all that delicious gravy! A warm baguette or sourdough works wonders.
• Steamed Green Beans or Asparagus: A simple, fresh green vegetable adds a touch of color and cuts through the richness.

For the Smoky & Spicy Chipotle Ranch version, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream on top can add extra zing. The Hearty Mushroom & Red Wine variation would be fantastic with a side of roasted root vegetables, like carrots and parsnips, to complement its earthy notes.

Storage and Reheating Tips

One of the great things about beef tips and gravy is that it often tastes even better the next day!

• Storage: Allow the beef tips and gravy to cool completely at room temperature (no longer than 2 hours) before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: This dish freezes exceptionally well. Place cooled beef tips and gravy in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving a little headspace. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You might need to add a splash of beef broth or water to thin out the gravy if it’s become too thick. If reheating from frozen, thaw first, then proceed as above. Avoid high heat as it can dry out the beef.

Pro Chef Tips

• Don’t Rush the Sear: Browning the beef properly is crucial for flavor development. Resist the urge to crowd the pan, and let each piece get a good, dark crust. This adds a depth of flavor you can’t get otherwise.
• Taste as You Go: Seasoning is personal. Taste your gravy before the final simmer and again at the end. Adjust salt, pepper, or even a dash more of your chosen twist’s flavor enhancers (like chipotle or balsamic) until it’s just right for your palate.
• Low and Slow is Key: For truly tender beef tips, a long, gentle simmer is non-negotiable. Don’t crank up the heat; let time work its magic to break down the beef fibers.
• Cornstarch Slurry Savvy: When thickening with a cornstarch slurry, always mix cornstarch with cold water before adding it to a hot liquid. This prevents lumps. Add it slowly, stirring constantly, until you reach your desired gravy consistency. You might not need all of it.
• Quality Ingredients Matter: While this is a comforting, unfussy dish, using good quality beef broth and a decent red wine (if using for Twist 2) will significantly enhance the final flavor.

Creative Twists

Beyond the two main variations offered, here are some other ideas to keep your Pioneer Woman Beef Tips and Gravy exciting:

• Creamy Paprika & Sour Cream Twist: Instead of chipotle or red wine, try adding 1-2 tablespoons of sweet or smoked paprika along with a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the base. Finish with 1/2 cup of sour cream stirred in at the end for a Hungarian goulash-inspired flavor profile.
• Beer Braised: Replace half of the beef broth with a dark beer like Guinness or a stout for a rich, malty flavor that pairs incredibly well with beef.
• Mediterranean Inspired: Add sun-dried tomatoes (chopped), a pinch of dried oregano, and a splash of red wine vinegar at the end for a brighter, tangy twist.
• Spice it Up: For those who love heat, introduce a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce during the simmering process, adjusting to your preference.

Common Questions

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

A: Absolutely! Follow the searing and sautéing steps (steps 1-3 of the Classic Base, plus your chosen twist additions) on the stovetop first, as this builds crucial flavor. Then, transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender. You may need to thicken the gravy on the stovetop at the end if it’s too thin.

What kind of beef is best for beef tips?

A: Beef stew meat (often pre-cut from chuck roast) works well and is budget-friendly. Sirloin tips are also an excellent choice, as they tend to be a bit more tender and cook up beautifully. Look for well-marbled cuts for the most flavor and tenderness.

My gravy isn’t thickening. What should I do?

A: Ensure your cornstarch slurry is made with cold water to prevent lumps. If you’ve added it and simmered for a few minutes and it’s still too thin, you can make a fresh slurry with another teaspoon or two of cornstarch and a bit more cold water. Stir it in slowly and continue to simmer until it reaches your desired consistency. Another option is a quick roux: melt a tablespoon of butter, whisk in a tablespoon of flour, cook for 1 minute, then whisk this mixture into your simmering gravy.