35-Minute Instant Pot Beef Tips with Gravy – Irresistibly Tender

There’s nothing like walking into a kitchen filled with the rich, savory smell of beef tips simmering in gravy—it’s pure comfort in a bowl. My Instant Pot Beef Tips with Gravy became a family favorite after one chaotic weeknight when I needed something hearty, fast, and foolproof. (Spoiler: It worked!) With tender beef, a velvety gravy, and just 15 minutes under pressure, this dish feels like a slow-cooked Sunday supper without the wait. As a mom who’s tested more Instant Pot recipes than I can count, trust me—this one’s a keeper. The secret? A quick sear for depth of flavor and that magical cornstarch slurry that turns pan drippings into gravy gold.

Why You’ll Love These Instant Pot Beef Tips with Gravy

This recipe is my go-to when I need something fast, comforting, and absolutely packed with flavor. Here’s why it’s a winner every time:

• Speed: From fridge to table in under 35 minutes—pressure cooking magic at its finest.
• Meltingly tender beef: The Instant Pot turns even budget-friendly cuts into fork-tender bites.
• Rich, savory gravy: That cornstarch slurry trick? It creates a glossy, velvety sauce you’ll want to drink with a spoon.
• Total versatility: Serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or even toast—it’s a one-pot wonder that adapts to whatever you’ve got.

Trust me, this dish tastes like you simmered it all day—but your Instant Pot did all the heavy lifting.

Ingredients for Instant Pot Beef Tips with Gravy

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this cozy, flavor-packed dish. Trust me, these simple ingredients come together to create something magical:

• 1.5 lbs beef sirloin tips, cut into 1-inch cubes (this size ensures they cook evenly and stay tender)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for that perfect sear)
• 1 small onion, diced (it melts into the gravy, adding sweetness)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (because garlic makes everything better)
• 1 cup beef broth (go for low-sodium if you’re watching salt)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (it’s the secret umami boost)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (the gravy thickener you’ll thank me for later)
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper (freshly ground if you’ve got it)
• 1 tsp dried thyme (it adds that cozy, herby warmth)

That’s it! Simple, right? Now let’s turn these into the most comforting meal you’ve had all week.

Equipment Needed

You’ll just need a few basic tools to make this recipe shine:

• 6-quart Instant Pot (or similar pressure cooker)
• Wooden spoon for scraping up those delicious browned bits
• Measuring spoons – accuracy matters for that perfect gravy
• Tongs to flip your beef tips like a pro

That’s it – now let’s get cooking!

How to Make Instant Pot Beef Tips with Gravy

Let’s turn those simple ingredients into a dish that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Follow these steps, and you’ll have tender beef tips swimming in rich, velvety gravy in no time.

Step 1: Searing the Beef Tips

First, set your Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat that olive oil until it shimmers. Add your beef tips in a single layer—don’t overcrowd the pot, or they’ll steam instead of sear. Brown them for 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re beautifully caramelized. (Trust me, this step is where the flavor starts!) Use tongs to flip them, and don’t worry if they’re not fully cooked yet—they’ll finish under pressure.

Step 2: Building the Gravy Base

Once the beef is seared, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until they’re fragrant and slightly softened. Now, pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, and use a wooden spoon to scrape up all those browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Those little bits? They’re flavor gold. Add the salt, pepper, and thyme, and give it a quick stir.

Step 3: Pressure Cooking

Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and make sure the steam release valve is set to “sealing.” Select manual high pressure and set the timer for 15 minutes. Once the cooking cycle is done, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes—this keeps the beef tender. Then, carefully turn the valve to “venting” to release any remaining pressure.

Step 4: Thickening the Gravy

Open the lid and stir in your cornstarch slurry. Set the pot back to sauté mode and let the gravy simmer for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. Watch as it transforms into a glossy, thick sauce that clings to the beef tips. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, then serve immediately. Oh, and get ready for the compliments!

Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Beef Tips with Gravy

After making this recipe more times than I can count, here are my can’t-skip secrets for beef tips that’ll knock your socks off:

• Sear in batches: Crowding the pot steams your beef instead of browning it. Take your time—that crusty sear equals big flavor!
• Don’t rush the pressure release: That 10-minute natural release keeps your beef melt-in-your-mouth tender. Quick-releasing too soon can make it tough.
• Gravy too thin? Mix another teaspoon of cornstarch with water and stir it in. Too thick? Splash in extra broth until it’s just right.

Follow these, and you’ll have restaurant-worthy beef tips every single time.

Serving Suggestions for Instant Pot Beef Tips with Gravy

This dish is a blank canvas for your favorite sides! I love it over creamy mashed potatoes—the gravy soaks right in. Fluffy rice or buttery egg noodles work just as well. For a pop of color, sprinkle on some fresh parsley. Trust me, it’s comfort food perfection.

Storing and Reheating Instant Pot Beef Tips with Gravy

This dish keeps beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I love using the microwave at 50% power—stir every minute until warmed through. You can also warm it gently on the stove with a splash of broth to loosen the gravy. Pro tip: The flavors actually deepen overnight, so lunch the next day might taste even better!

Instant Pot Beef Tips with Gravy Variations

Want to mix things up? Here are my favorite ways to customize this recipe:

• Add mushrooms: Toss in sliced creminis during Step 2—they soak up gravy flavor like little sponges!
• Swap broths: Chicken or mushroom broth work great if that’s what’s in your pantry.
• Kick up the herbs: Try rosemary or a bay leaf for deeper aroma.

The beauty? You can’t mess it up—just taste as you go!

Nutritional Information

Nutritional values are estimates per serving (1 cup): 320 calories, 12g fat (4g saturated), 38g protein, 8g carbs, 1g fiber, and 650mg sodium. Adjust based on specific ingredients used.

Common Questions About Instant Pot Beef Tips with Gravy

Got questions? I’ve got answers! Here are the most common things people ask about this recipe:

Can I use stew meat instead of sirloin tips? Absolutely! Stew meat works great, though it might need a few extra minutes under pressure to get tender. Just cut it into 1-inch cubes for even cooking. The Instant Pot works its magic on tougher cuts, so you’ll still get that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

How do I fix thin gravy? Don’t worry—it’s an easy fix! Mix another teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water, stir it in, and let it simmer for a minute or two. Keep stirring, and you’ll see it thicken right up. If it’s still too thin, repeat the process until it’s perfect.

Can I freeze Instant Pot Beef Tips with Gravy? Yes! Let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed. Freezing works like a charm—just give it a good stir when reheating to bring the gravy back to life.

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