There’s something incredibly soothing about a hearty meal that brings warmth to both the body and spirit. Picture this: as I pulled away from the chaotic demands of my day, the rich aroma of tender beef simmering away on the stove wrapped around me like a favorite blanket. This Beef Tips and Gravy over Cauliflower Mash became my culinary comfort zone, a dish that transforms everyday ingredients into something truly extraordinary.
The secret lies not just in the flavorful beef, seared to perfection, but also in the creamy, dreamy cauliflower mash that serves as the perfect canvas for that sumptuous gravy. Say goodbye to boring dinners and fast food fatigue—this dish bridges the gap between simple and delicious, ensuring that everyone around your table will be asking for seconds. Plus, it’s easy enough to whip up on a busy weeknight yet impressive enough for a weekend gathering. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that is sure to become a family favorite!
Why is Beef Tips and Gravy Over Cauliflower Mash a Must-Try?
Comforting warmth: This recipe wraps you in cozy flavors, making it perfect for chilly evenings.
Quick preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking, it’s a weeknight winner.
Rich, mouthwatering flavor: The tender beef combined with savory gravy elevates the dish to restaurant-quality.
Health-conscious twist: The creamy cauliflower mash is a fantastic low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes.
Versatile serving options: Enjoy it fresh right away or use the crockpot for an effortless meal at any time.
Get ready to impress your family by whipping up this delicious dish that will surely become a staple in your home!
Beef Tips and Gravy Over Cauliflower Mash Ingredients
For the Beef Tips
• Beef stew meat or sirloin tips – 2 pounds ensures a rich, tender bite that holds up beautifully in the gravy.
• Olive oil – 1 tbsp adds a hint of flavor while preventing sticking during the searing process.
• Garlic – 2-3 cloves minced brings aromatic depth to the dish.
• Yellow onion – ½ diced onion adds sweetness and complexity to the overall taste.
• Salt – Use to taste; it enhances all the flavors.
• Pepper – Use to taste for that perfect kick.
For the Gravy
• Beef broth – 2 cups provides a savory base that makes this gravy irresistible.
• Ghee or dairy-free butter – 1 tbsp enriches the sauce with richness.
• Coconut aminos or Worcestershire sauce – 1 teaspoon (optional) contributes an umami flavor that rounds out the gravy.
• Tapioca flour or cornstarch – 2 tbsp (dissolved in cold water) helps to thicken the gravy nicely.
For the Cauliflower Mash
• Cauliflower rice – 2 12 oz bags or 1.5 heads chopped into florets for a creamy, low-carb alternative.
• Ghee or dairy-free butter – 1 tbsp makes for a luscious consistency.
• Garlic powder – ½ tsp adds subtle notes of flavor.
• Onion powder – ½ tsp enhances the savory profile of the mash.
• Chives – 1 tbsp, fresh or dry, gives a pop of color and freshness.
• Coconut milk – 2 tbsp creates a creamy texture that binds everything together.
• Dairy-free sour cream or regular sour cream – 2 tbsp for a tangy finish (choose according to dietary needs).
• Salt – Use to taste for perfect seasoning.
• Pepper – Use to taste to elevate all the flavors.
This Beef Tips and Gravy Over Cauliflower Mash will bring warmth and satisfaction to your dining table!
How to Make Beef Tips and Gravy Over Cauliflower Mash
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Season the beef tips with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef tips, searing them on all sides until they are beautifully browned, about 4-5 minutes.
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Sauté the onions and garlic by moving the beef tips to one side of the skillet. On the other side, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant, approximately 30-40 seconds.
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Combine the flavors by adding the ghee and beef broth to the skillet along with the cornstarch or tapioca slurry. Stir constantly to blend and avoid lumps, allowing the sauce to thicken.
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Simmer the mixture by bringing it to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered until the beef is tender, about 30 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
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Prepare the cauliflower mash. If using frozen cauliflower rice, cook according to the package instructions and drain excess water. For fresh cauliflower, steam the florets over boiling water until fork-tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain and pat dry.
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Blend the mash in a food processor. Combine the steamed cauliflower with garlic powder, onion powder, chives, ghee, coconut milk, and dairy-free sour cream. Season with salt and pepper until you achieve a creamy, smooth consistency. Adjust with more coconut milk if needed.
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Serve the delicious beef tips and gravy over the velvety cauliflower mash, garnished with fresh herbs if desired for that extra touch of flavor.
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Crockpot Tip: For the crockpot version, brown the beef tips in a skillet and transfer everything (except the tapioca flour slurry) to the crockpot. Cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 5-7 hours, adding the slurry 15 minutes before serving to thicken.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Beef Tips and Gravy Over Cauliflower Mash
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Choose the Right Beef: Use beef stew meat or sirloin tips for tender bites. Avoid tougher cuts to ensure that your beef remains juicy and flavorful.
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Sear Them Well: Browning the beef tips fully enhances flavor through the Maillard reaction. Don’t rush this step; it sets the foundation for your gravy.
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Avoid Lumps in Gravy: When adding the tapioca flour or cornstarch, stir vigorously to avoid lumps. Gradually mix it to allow for smooth gravy consistency.
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Simmer Low and Slow: Let the beef simmer gently for about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in an irresistible dish.
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Perfect Cauliflower Mash: Drain your cauliflower well after cooking to prevent a watery mash. Adjust the creaminess with coconut milk for your desired texture.
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Crockpot Convenience: For a hands-off approach, use a crockpot. Brown the beef tips first, then let slow cooking do its magic, perfect for busy evenings.
Creating a delicious Beef Tips and Gravy Over Cauliflower Mash ensures comfort food done right!
Beef Tips and Gravy Over Cauliflower Mash Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful variations to make this dish your own and tickle your taste buds!
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk and dairy-free sour cream throughout for a creamy, non-dairy option. This twist ensures everyone can indulge without compromise!
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Vegetarian Option: Substitute beef tips with mushrooms or lentils for a hearty plant-based alternative that doesn’t skimp on flavor. You’ll be amazed at how well this captures the essence of the original recipe!
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Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the gravy for a spicy flavor profile. This little heat will elevate your dish to a flavor fiesta!
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Herb Infusion: Fresh thyme or rosemary can be added to the beef broth for an aromatic infusion that elevates the dish’s complexity. Herbs make a world of difference, bringing freshness and zest to each bite!
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Zesty Tang: Incorporate a tablespoon of Dijon mustard into the gravy for a subtle tang that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the beef. This variation adds an unexpected depth of flavor that will have everyone guessing the secret ingredient!
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Nutty Flavor: Toasted walnuts or pecans added to the cauliflower mash can introduce a delightful crunch and depth. You’ll love the surprise element that these nuts provide in every spoonful!
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Extra Creamy: Swap in some cream cheese or add an additional tablespoon of ghee to the cauliflower mash for an ultra-rich texture. This indulgent twist transforms the mash into a luxurious dish on its own!
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BBQ Influence: Mix in some barbecue sauce with the beef gravy for a smoky twist that brings a little summer to the table. This bold choice is sure to be crowd-pleasing!
Make Ahead Options
These Beef Tips and Gravy Over Cauliflower Mash are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can sear the beef tips and prepare the gravy up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in an airtight container to maintain flavor and tenderness. Additionally, you can make the cauliflower mash ahead of time—just store it in the fridge and reheat it gently, adding a splash of coconut milk for creaminess. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the beef and gravy on the stove, and warm the mash before plating. You’ll enjoy all the comforting flavors just as delicious as when freshly made, making dinner a breeze!
What to Serve with Beef Tips and Gravy Over Cauliflower Mash?
Experience a symphony of flavors that turns a comforting meal into a celebration of deliciousness.
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Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Their earthy, slightly bitter flavor provides a wonderful contrast to the rich gravy, bringing balance to your plate.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery, and infused with garlic, they are perfect for mopping up extra gravy, making each bite irresistible.
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Roasted Carrots: Naturally sweet and caramelized, these vibrant vegetables add a splash of color and nutritional goodness to your meal.
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Fresh Green Salad: A light and zesty salad with lemon vinaigrette brightens the palate, cutting through the richness of the beef and gravy.
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Steamed Broccoli: Tender and vibrant, steamed broccoli adds a nutritious, crunchy element that complements the creamy mash beautifully.
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Red Wine: A glass of bold Cabernet Sauvignon offers deep flavors that echo the savory notes in the dish, providing a luxurious touch to your dinner experience.
Let these pairings complete your Beef Tips and Gravy Over Cauliflower Mash meal, transforming it into a delightful and memorable dining experience that the whole family will savor!
How to Store and Freeze Beef Tips and Gravy Over Cauliflower Mash
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the dish completely before refrigerating for best results.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze portions of the Beef Tips and Gravy by using freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. If the cauliflower mash appears thick, add a splash of coconut milk to restore creaminess.
Keep it Separated: If you prefer, package the beef tips and gravy separately from the cauliflower mash to maintain texture and flavor quality when reheating.
Beef Tips and Gravy Over Cauliflower Mash Recipe FAQs
How do I select the perfect beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for beef stew meat or sirloin tips; they’re both tender and ideal for slow cooking. You want pieces that are bright red with good marbling to ensure juiciness. If you notice any dark spots or a smell, steer clear!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very! Place leftovers in an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge. For the best taste, cool the dish completely before storing. If you want to save it for later, freezing is a great option!
Can I freeze Beef Tips and Gravy Over Cauliflower Mash?
Absolutely! You can freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just make sure to allow the dish to cool before packaging. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the stovetop or microwave.
What should I do if my cauliflower mash is too watery?
If your cauliflower mash ends up too watery, no worries! You can blend in a bit more ghee and coconut milk for richness and creaminess. Alternatively, re-drain and pat the cauliflower more thoroughly before blending next time to achieve the perfect texture.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! If you or someone at your table has a dairy allergy, feel free to use dairy-free butter and sour cream, which work beautifully in this recipe. For even more dietary options, you can use low-sodium beef broth or gluten-free cornstarch.
Can I prepare the dish in advance?
Certainly! You can cook the beef tips and gravy a day ahead of time—just store them separately from the cauliflower mash to keep everything fresh. When you’re ready to serve, whip up the mash and combine for a comforting meal in no time.
Beef Tips and Gravy Over Cauliflower Mash for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season the beef tips with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef tips, searing them on all sides until they are beautifully browned, about 4-5 minutes.
- Sauté the onions and garlic by moving the beef tips to one side of the skillet. On the other side, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant, approximately 30-40 seconds.
- Combine the flavors by adding the ghee and beef broth to the skillet along with the cornstarch or tapioca slurry. Stir constantly to blend and avoid lumps, allowing the sauce to thicken.
- Simmer the mixture by bringing it to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered until the beef is tender, about 30 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Prepare the cauliflower mash. If using frozen cauliflower rice, cook according to the package instructions and drain excess water. For fresh cauliflower, steam the florets over boiling water until fork-tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain and pat dry.
- Blend the mash in a food processor. Combine the steamed cauliflower with garlic powder, onion powder, chives, ghee, coconut milk, and dairy-free sour cream. Season with salt and pepper until you achieve a creamy, smooth consistency. Adjust with more coconut milk if needed.
- Serve the delicious beef tips and gravy over the velvety cauliflower mash, garnished with fresh herbs if desired for that extra touch of flavor.
- For the crockpot version, brown the beef tips in a skillet and transfer everything (except the tapioca flour slurry) to the crockpot. Cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 5-7 hours, adding the slurry 15 minutes before serving to thicken.