Dinner · Part 3 of 3: Tips & recipe card

Bourbon Gravy Sirloin Tips: Easy Crockpot Dinner Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Name: Bourbon Gravy Sirloin Tips: Easy Crockpot Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lb top sirloin steak tips; 1 cup peeled pearl onions; 2 cups crinkle-cut carrots; 1 jar (12 oz) mushroom-bourbon gravy; 4 tbsp salted butter

By Clara Weller · Oct 28, 2026

Bourbon gravy sirloin tips with pearl onions and carrots in a slow cooker, topped with melting butter.

Prep: 10 min
Cook: 6 h
Total: 6 h 10 min
Serves: 6

Tips for success

For the best flavor, choose a high-quality mushroom-bourbon gravy. If you can’t find it, look for a jarred beef gravy and add a splash of bourbon and a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce.

The alcohol cooks off, leaving just the rich, slightly sweet flavor. If you want a thicker gravy, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

This recipe is endlessly adaptable. Add a handful of sliced mushrooms along with the onions for extra earthy flavor. For a touch of freshness, stir in chopped parsley just before serving.

If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. The slow cooker does all the work, so feel free to experiment with different vegetables like parsnips or potatoes—just cut them into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly.

Variations

Mushroom Lover's: Add 8 ounces of sliced cremini mushrooms along with the onions and carrots. The mushrooms will release their liquid and add extra depth to the gravy. Sauté them first if you prefer a firmer texture, or just toss them in raw.
Herb-Infused: Tuck a few sprigs of fresh thyme and rosemary into the slow cooker before cooking. Remove them before serving. The herbs will infuse the gravy with a subtle woodsy flavor that complements the bourbon beautifully.
Spicy Bourbon: Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a chopped chipotle pepper in adobo for a smoky heat. The spice will balance the sweetness of the bourbon and butter. Adjust the amount to taste.
Vegetable Boost: Add 2 cups of baby potatoes or halved new potatoes along with the carrots. They will cook in the gravy and become tender and flavorful. You may need to increase the cook time by 30 minutes if the potatoes are large.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave until hot.
Freezer: Freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat: Reheat in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until hot. 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 the leftovers even more delicious.

Reheat gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally. The gravy may thicken as it sits, so add a splash of beef broth or water when reheating if needed.

You can assemble the slow cooker insert the night before: layer the beef, onions, carrots, gravy, and butter, then cover and refrigerate overnight.

In the morning, place the insert in the slow cooker and cook as directed. If you need to cook this in a hurry, use the high setting for 3 to 4 hours, but the low setting gives the most tender results.

Serving ideas

Serve this bourbon gravy sirloin tips over fluffy white rice, egg noodles, or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up every bit of the rich gravy. A side of crusty bread is perfect for dipping. For a lighter option, serve over cauliflower rice or alongside a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness.

This dish is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but it also pairs well with roasted green beans or a steamed vegetable like broccoli. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color. The sweet pearl onions and carrots are a delightful surprise, so make sure everyone gets some in their serving.

Frequently asked questions

Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the slow cooker insert the night before and refrigerate it. In the morning, place the insert in the slow cooker and cook as directed. The cooking time will be the same. You can also cook the entire dish, then cool and refrigerate it for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

What can be substituted for sirloin steak tips?

Chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes, is an excellent substitute. It has enough marbling to stay tender during the long cook time. You can also use beef stew meat, but check for large chunks and cut them into smaller pieces if needed. Avoid lean cuts like tenderloin, which will dry out.

Why does the gravy sometimes turn out thin?

The gravy may be thin if there is too much liquid from the meat and vegetables. To thicken it, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Let it cook uncovered for the last 15 minutes to allow some liquid to evaporate.

Can this recipe be cooked on high instead of low?

Yes, you can cook on high for 3 to 4 hours instead of low for 6 to 7 hours. The beef will be tender, but the low setting yields the most fork-tender results because the longer cooking time allows the collagen to break down more completely. If using high, check the beef at 3 hours to avoid overcooking.

Is the bourbon gravy safe for children?

Yes, the alcohol cooks off during the long slow-cooking process, leaving only the flavor. The dish is safe for children and adults alike. If you prefer to avoid alcohol entirely, use a non-alcoholic bourbon flavoring or simply omit it and add a teaspoon of vanilla extract for a hint of sweetness.

Recipe card

Bourbon Gravy Sirloin Tips: Easy Crockpot Dinner

Prep 10 minCook 6 hTotal 6 h 10 minServes 6

Ingredients

2 lb top sirloin steak tips
1 cup peeled pearl onions
2 cups crinkle-cut carrots
1 jar (12 oz) mushroom-bourbon gravy
4 tbsp salted butter

Instructions

Place the sirloin steak tips in the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker in an even layer. Scatter the pearl onions and carrots over the beef. Pour the mushroom-bourbon gravy over everything, then top with the butter pats. Do not stir.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the beef is fork-tender and reaches an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C). Let the beef rest for at least 3 minutes before serving.
Spoon the hot beef, onions, and carrots over fluffy white rice or mashed potatoes. Ladle extra gravy over the top and serve immediately.

Contains: milk, gluten

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories: 480
Protein: 35 g
Carbohydrates: 18 g
Fat: 28 g

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

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This recipe is based on a short cooking video and is published under the pen name Clara Weller. It was checked before publication, but errors can slip through. Nutrition, when shown, is an estimate. Read more in our editorial policy and on our food safety page.