Bourbon Gravy Asparagus Sirloin Tips in the Crockpot Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For the best texture, cut the sirloin tips into uniform pieces so they cook evenly. If your slow cooker runs hot, check the beef at the lower end of the cooking time.

The sauce will be thinner at first, but it will thicken slightly as it rests. If you prefer a thicker gravy, stir in a slurry of 1 tablespoon cornstarch and 2 tablespoons water during the last 15 minutes.

Don't be tempted to add extra liquid—the beef and vegetables release moisture as they cook, so the gravy stays at the right consistency.

If you want a more intense bourbon flavor, stir in an extra tablespoon of bourbon just before serving. The alcohol will not cook off, so this is optional for those who enjoy a stronger kick.

Variations

• Mushroom and Onion: Add 1 cup sliced mushrooms and 1/2 cup diced onions to the slow cooker with the beef. Sauté them in a skillet first for extra depth, or add them raw for a simpler approach. The vegetables will soften and blend into the gravy.
• Spicy Kick: Stir in 1 teaspoon of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the gravy for a subtle heat. The bourbon and spice pair well, and it adds a nice warmth without overpowering the dish.
• Herb Infusion: Add 2 sprigs of fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary to the slow cooker with the other ingredients. The herbs infuse the gravy with a fragrant, earthy note that complements the bourbon and beef.
• Vegetable Swap: Replace the asparagus with 2 cups of trimmed green beans or broccolini. Adjust the cooking time so the vegetables stay crisp-tender. This is a great way to use whatever green vegetable is in season.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezer

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheat

Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Add a splash of beef broth or water if the gravy is too thick.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even better the next day. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth if the gravy has thickened too much.

You can assemble the uncooked ingredients in the slow cooker insert the night before, cover, and refrigerate.

In the morning, place the insert in the slow cooker base and cook as directed. You may need to add 15–20 minutes to the cooking time if starting from cold.

Serving ideas

Serve this dish over fluffy white rice to soak up the rich gravy. For a low-carb option, try mashed cauliflower or buttery egg noodles.

A side of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley if you like, though the dish is delicious as is.

This meal is hearty enough for a weeknight dinner but elegant enough for company. Pair it with a simple green salad and a glass of bourbon or red wine for a complete meal. The leftovers are just as good, so make extra if you can.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Bourbon Gravy Asparagus Sirloin Tips in the Crockpot

Prep 10 minCook 4 h 30 minTotal 4 h 40 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 2 lb top sirloin steak tips
• 1 lb fresh asparagus spears, trimmed
• 6 cloves garlic, smashed
• 1 1/2 cups mushroom-bourbon gravy (jarred or homemade)
• 4 tbsp salted butter, cut into pats
• 2 cups cooked white rice, for serving

Instructions

1. Place the sirloin steak tips in the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker in a single layer. Scatter the asparagus spears and smashed garlic cloves over the beef, distributing evenly.
2. Pour the mushroom-bourbon gravy over the beef and vegetables. Dot the top with the salted butter pats.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours, or on HIGH for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, until the beef is fork-tender. The internal temperature of the beef should reach at least 145°F (63°C). Let it rest for 3 minutes before slicing.
4. Turn off the slow cooker and let the beef rest in the sauce for at least 3 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute.
5. Spoon the warm cooked rice into shallow bowls. Ladle the beef, asparagus, and bourbon gravy over the rice, making sure each serving gets a generous amount of sauce.

Contains: gluten, milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

520

Protein

38 g

Carbohydrates

32 g

Fat

26 g

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.