Crockpot Steak Bites Recipe
Picture this: tender, juicy morsels of beef, bursting with flavor and smothered in a rich, savory sauce, all simmered to perfection in your slow cooker with hardly any effort. That’s the magic of Crockpot Steak Bites! This recipe transforms simple steak cubes into mouthwatering bites that melt in your mouth, all with the help of your trusty crockpot. Whether you’re planning a cozy weeknight dinner or prepping for a laid-back gathering, these steak bites are bound to become your new go-to comfort dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You might be surprised by how just a handful of pantry staples and a good cut of beef come together to make such a satisfying meal. Each ingredient in these Crockpot Steak Bites is carefully chosen to add richness, depth, and that irresistible aroma you’ll be craving all day.
- Sirloin or chuck steak (2 lbs, cut into 1-inch cubes): Sirloin is wonderfully tender, while chuck gives you deep beefy flavor; pick your favorite or what suits your budget best.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): Adds richness and helps create that beautiful sear on the steak bites before slow cooking begins.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic packs a punch of savory flavor that soaks right into every bite.
- Low-sodium soy sauce (1/4 cup): Brings just the right hint of saltiness and umami, perfectly balancing the dish.
- Worcestershire sauce (2 tbsp): Adds a tangy, savory depth that makes the sauce downright irresistible.
- Butter (2 tbsp): Melts into the sauce for a velvety, luxurious finish and hints of richness.
- Onion powder (1 tsp): Infuses the entire dish with gentle warmth and subtle sweet notes.
- Smoked paprika (1/2 tsp): Layers in gentle smokiness and adds lovely color to your steak bites.
- Black pepper (1/2 tsp): A cozy kick of heat that ties everything together.
- Salt (1/4 tsp): Enhances all the other flavors without going overboard, thanks to the low-sodium soy sauce.
- Cornstarch (1 tbsp, optional, for thickening): Handy if you like your sauce a bit heartier; just whisk it with cold water first.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a pop of color and a fresh finish before serving.
How to Make Crockpot Steak Bites
Step 1: Sear the Steak Bites
Heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, working in batches, add the cubed steak and sear for just 1–2 minutes on each side. Don’t worry about cooking them all the way through at this stage—the goal is to develop a deep, flavorful crust. This quick sear is key for locking in juices and creating delicious “crusty” edges on your Crockpot Steak Bites.
Step 2: Transfer to the Crockpot
After searing, move all your steak bites into the slow cooker. Try to scrape up every last flavorful bit from the skillet—those browned bits are pure gold when it comes to taste! Now, your steak is ready to soak up all the savory sauce you’ve prepared.
Step 3: Whisk Together Sauce Ingredients
In a small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, melted butter, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Pour this aromatic mixture evenly over the steak bites in the crockpot, then give everything a gentle stir to coat the meat well. The smell alone at this point is enough to make your mouth water!
Step 4: Slow Cook to Tender Perfection
Cover your slow cooker and set it to low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours. The longer, low-and-slow method yields especially tender Crockpot Steak Bites, but even on high you’ll get fantastic results. You’ll know they’re done when the steak cubes are fork-tender and easily break apart—the ultimate signal that it’s time to eat.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce (optional)
If you love a thicker, saucier coating, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Stir this into the crockpot about 30 minutes before serving and let it finish cooking. The sauce will thicken up beautifully, perfect for spooning over sides.
Step 6: Finish and Garnish
Right before serving, sprinkle your Crockpot Steak Bites with a shower of freshly chopped parsley if you have it. It adds not only a burst of color but also a refreshing finish that makes the dish pop.
How to Serve Crockpot Steak Bites
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley is a classic, but don’t hesitate to get creative! Crumbled blue cheese or a drizzle of garlic butter right before serving can make your Crockpot Steak Bites even more decadent. For a touch of heat and color, a few sliced green onions or even crushed red pepper flakes are wonderful additions.
Side Dishes
These steak bites shine over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy white rice, or warm buttered noodles—perfect for soaking up all that incredible sauce. Roasted vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts also make fantastic side kicks. If you’re feeling indulgent, try serving them with crusty bread for sopping up every last drop.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or football game, stick toothpicks in each steak bite and arrange them on a platter with bowls of sauce for dipping—it’s an effortless crowd-pleaser! You can also tuck the Crockpot Steak Bites into soft rolls for sliders, or pile them onto baked potatoes for a hearty twist on classic comfort food.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Crockpot Steak Bites tasting their best, allow any leftovers to cool to room temperature, then transfer them (with sauce) to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—the flavors often get even deeper and richer as they meld together!
Freezing
These steak bites freeze remarkably well. Place cooled portions (including sauce) in freezer-safe bags or containers and freeze for up to 2 months. For easy meals, freeze in single-serve or family-size batches, so you can grab just what you need.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Then, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through—these steak bites taste just as fabulous the next day!
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for Crockpot Steak Bites?
Absolutely! While sirloin and chuck are wonderful, you can also use cuts like ribeye (extra decadent) or round steak (budget-friendly). Just keep in mind that tougher cuts may need a little longer to get perfectly tender in the slow cooker.
Do I have to sear the steak before slow cooking?
Searing is highly recommended because it brings out a rich, caramelized flavor and creates those satisfying crusty edges. But if you’re pressed for time, you can skip this step—the recipe will still deliver delicious Crockpot Steak Bites, just with a slightly different texture.
How do I make this recipe gluten free?
It’s easy! Just make sure to use a certified gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of regular soy sauce. Everything else in these Crockpot Steak Bites is naturally gluten free.
Can I add vegetables to the crockpot?
Definitely! Add sturdy vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or mushrooms during the last couple of hours of cooking so they don’t get too mushy. Just keep an eye on them since cook time may vary depending on the size of your veggie pieces.
What’s the best way to double this recipe for a party?
Simply double all the ingredients and use a large (at least 6-quart) slow cooker. You may need to sear the steak bites in more batches, but the cook time remains about the same. Watch for doneness and enjoy serving up a big batch of Crockpot Steak Bites to a hungry crowd!
Final Thoughts
There’s something especially satisfying about coming home to a simmering pot of rich, tender Crockpot Steak Bites. This recipe is an absolute favorite in my house for good reason—so easy, so flavorful, and so versatile! Whether you’re new to slow cooking or a total pro, I can’t wait for you to experience just how amazing these steak bites turn out. Give them a try, and don’t be surprised if they become a new staple at your table!
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Crockpot Steak Bites Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Crockpot Steak Bites are tender, flavorful chunks of steak cooked in a savory garlic butter sauce. Perfect for an easy and delicious meal that practically cooks itself in the slow cooker.
Ingredients
Steak Bites:
- 2 lbs sirloin or chuck steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Sear the Steak: Heat olive oil in a large skillet and sear the steak bites until browned.
- Mix the Sauce: Combine garlic, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, butter, and seasonings. Pour over steak bites in the slow cooker.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours until tender.
- Thicken Sauce: Optional: Mix cornstarch with water and add to the slow cooker for the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a splash of beef broth or red wine to the sauce.
- Chuck roast is a more economical cut but may require additional cooking time for tenderness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
