Ingredients
- 3 lb (1.4 kg) beef stew meat or sirloin steak, cut into 1–1½-inch cubes
- 1 packet (1 oz) Au Jus gravy mix
- 1 packet (1 oz) Ranch seasoning mix
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- ½ cup beef broth
- ½ cup pepperoncini peppers, optional
- ¼ cup pepperoncini juice, optional
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 1 small onion, sliced, optional
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced, optional
Instructions
- Prepare the beef: Pat the beef cubes dry and trim excess fat.
- Optional sear: Heat a little oil in a skillet and brown the beef for 2–3 minutes per side. Searing adds extra flavor but can be skipped.
- Load the slow cooker: Place the beef in a 6-quart slow cooker.
- Season: Sprinkle the Au Jus mix, Ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper evenly over the beef.
- Add butter: Cut the butter into pieces and place it on top.
- Add liquid: Pour in the beef broth. Add pepperoncini and juice if using.
- Slow cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the beef is very tender.
- Make thicker gravy: For a thicker sauce, mix 2 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp cold water, stir into the slow cooker during the final 20–30 minutes, and cook on HIGH.
- Serve: Stir the beef into the rich gravy and serve over mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or vegetables.
Nutrition — Approx. per serving
- Calories: 450–550 kcal
- Protein: 40–45 g
- Carbohydrates: 5–8 g
- Fat: 28–38 g
- Fiber: 1–2 g
- Sodium: Can be high because of the seasoning packets.
One published Mississippi beef version lists about 533 calories, 44 g protein, and 38 g fat per serving, though nutrition varies by cut and serving size.
Nut & Allergen Information
- Peanuts: None
- Tree nuts: None
- Dairy: Butter
- Eggs: None
- Gluten: Check Au Jus and Ranch seasoning labels
- Soy: May be present in seasoning mixes
- Mustard: May be present in Ranch seasoning
- Pepperoncini: Optional
Q/S — Quick Questions & Substitutions
Can I use chuck roast instead of beef tips?
Yes. Use a 3–4 lb chuck roast and cook on LOW about 8 hours, then shred.
Can I leave out pepperoncini?
Yes. The dish will still be rich and savory, but you’ll lose the characteristic tangy flavor.
Can I use only ½ stick of butter?
Yes. Using less butter still works and makes the dish lighter.
Can I add potatoes?
Yes. Add baby potatoes during cooking; they work especially well with the gravy.
What should I serve with it?
Mashed potatoes are excellent because they soak up the gravy. Rice, noodles, or roasted vegetables also work well.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes. Cool completely and freeze in an airtight container for up to about 3 months.