How to Cook Perfect Beef Tips: Easy and Delicious Recipes

Beef tips are small, tender pieces of beef, usually cut from the sirloin, tenderloin, or round. They’re great for many dishes like stews or stir-fries. Best of all, they cook fast, which makes them perfect for busy weeknights.
In this article, you’ll learn how to pick the best cut, season it well, and cook it just right.

Why Everyone Loves Cooking Beef Tips

Before we get into the how-to, here’s why beef tips deserve a spot on your dinner rotation:

• Tender Texture: When cooked properly, beef tips practically melt in your mouth.
• Flavorful Versatility: These pieces soak up marinades and sauces beautifully.
• Budget-Friendly: Unlike pricier steak cuts, beef tips give you excellent flavor without breaking the bank.
• Quick or Slow: Whether you’ve got 30 minutes or all day, beef tips can fit your cooking timeline.

Now, let’s explore how to prepare the perfect beef tips.

Types of Beef Cuts for Beef Tips

When cooking beef tips, it’s essential to choose the right cut. The most common cuts are:

1. Sirloin Tips – These are slightly more affordable but still quite tender. They offer great flavor and are perfect for quick sautéing or stir-frying.
2. Tenderloin Tips – These are the most tender cuts and are often considered the best choice for beef tips. However, they can be pricier.
3. Round Tips – This cut is leaner but can make delicious beef tips if cooked properly.

How to Select the Best Beef Tips

When selecting beef tips at the grocery store, look for cuts that are bright red with little visible fat. The texture should be firm, and the meat should feel moist but not wet. If you’re unsure, ask your butcher for recommendations based on your cooking plans.

Tips for Cooking Tender Beef Tips

Cooking beef tips is simple, but there are some tips to ensure you get the best results. Here are a few expert suggestions for perfectly cooked beef tips:

1. Prepping the Beef Tips

Preparation is key to tender, flavorful beef tips. Follow these steps:

• Trim Excess Fat: Remove any silver skin or thick fat for consistent cooking.
• Marinate: To enhance the flavor of your beef tips, marinate them for at least 30 minutes or up to a few hours. A simple marinade of olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, and a touch of vinegar can tenderize the meat and add depth to the flavor. For an even better result, marinate the beef tips overnight in the fridge.

2. Cookware Matters

The right pan or cooking equipment can make all the difference:

• Cast Iron Skillet: Great for searing beef tips and locking in flavor.
• Slow Cooker: Perfect for tender, fall-apart beef in stews or with gravy.
• Instant Pot: A lifesaver for creating tender beef tips quickly.

3. Cooking Techniques

Stovetop Searing

For a quick, classic preparation:

1. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add seasoned beef tips in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the pan.
3. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until a golden crust forms.
4. Remove and set aside, then use the pan drippings to create a sauce or gravy.

Slow Cooking

This method works wonders for tougher cuts:

1. Combine beef tips with onions, garlic, and your choice of broth or red wine.
2. Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 6-8 hours.
3. Finish by thickening the sauce with a cornstarch slurry.

Grilled Beef Tips

Want a smoky, char-grilled flavor?

1. Skewer beef tips and season or marinate them.
2. Grill over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side.

4. Pairing Ingredients

Pairing the right ingredients can amplify your beef tips meal:

• Veggies: Mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers bring balance.
• Carbs: Mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles soak up the sauce beautifully.
• Herbs: Top it off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme for a vibrant, aromatic touch.

5. Don’t Overcook the Beef

Beef tips cook quickly, so it’s essential not to overcook them. Keep an eye on the meat, and use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked to your desired doneness. For tender beef, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F for medium-rare or 140°F for medium.

6. Let the Meat Rest

After cooking, allow the beef tips to rest for a few minutes before serving. This step lets the juices redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each bite is as tender and juicy as possible.

Easy Beef Tip Recipes

1. Classic Beef Tips with Gravy

This flavorful dish makes a great choice for a warm, comforting family meal. Pair the beef tips with rice or mashed potatoes to complete the experience.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef tips
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef tips and cook until evenly browned. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, cook the chopped onion and minced garlic until they become soft and fragrant.
3. Sprinkle flour over the mixture, stirring constantly to create a roux. Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring to blend everything smoothly.
4. Add the browned beef tips back into the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and let everything simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the beef is tender and the sauce thickens.

2. Beef Tips Stir-Fry

If you’re looking for a quick and healthy dinner, a beef stir-fry is an excellent option. This recipe combines the rich flavor of beef tips with fresh vegetables for a delicious meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef tips, thinly sliced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 teaspoons ginger, grated
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup beef broth

Instructions:

1. Heat sesame oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the beef tips and stir-fry until they’re nicely browned. Take them out and set aside.
2. In the same pan, sauté the onion, bell pepper, garlic, and ginger until fragrant and tender.
3. Return the beef to the pan, then pour in the soy sauce and beef broth. Mix well and let it cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes.
4. Serve over rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.

Top Errors to Steer Clear of When Preparing Beef Tips

Even though cooking beef tips is straightforward, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcrowding the Pan
  When you overcrowd the pan with too many beef tips, they steam rather than sear. This prevents them from developing a nice golden crust. Cook the beef in batches if necessary.
• Not Seasoning Enough
  Beef tips benefit from proper seasoning. Don’t be afraid to add salt, pepper, and herbs to bring out the best in your beef.
• Skipping the Resting Period
  Letting the beef rest after cooking is key to keeping it juicy. Skipping this step can result in dry, less flavorful beef tips.

See Also – Ultimate Guide to Reheating Beef Stew: Methods, Tips, and Safety

Conclusion

Cooking beef tips is easy once you understand the basics. Choose the right cut, season well, and cook to the perfect level of tenderness. With the recipes and tips shared in this article, you’re well on your way to preparing beef tips that are juicy, flavorful, and sure to impress.