Introduction
If you’re craving a delicious, melt-in-your-mouth steak that requires minimal effort, then Crockpot Steak Bites are the perfect dish for you. These juicy, tender steak pieces are cooked to perfection in a slow cooker, absorbing all the rich flavors from spices, garlic, and savory seasonings. Whether you’re looking for a hearty weeknight dinner or preparing a dish to impress guests, this recipe is both simple and satisfying.
With a few ingredients, you can prepare a meal that’s packed with flavor without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow cooking process ensures that the steak bites turn out tender, and the rich sauce adds an irresistible finish. This dish is perfect for pairing with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables, making it a versatile and complete meal.
Why You’ll Love Crockpot Steak Bites
- Effortless cooking: Just toss the ingredients in the Crockpot and let it do the work for you.
- Tender steak: Slow cooking ensures the steak turns out melt-in-your-mouth tender.
- Flavor-packed: The spices and seasonings infuse the steak, creating a dish full of rich, savory flavors.
- Versatile: Can be served with various sides, making it perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Steak Bites:
- 1 1/2 pounds of sirloin steak (or any tender cut of your choice), cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or Worcestershire sauce for a different flavor)
- 1/4 cup beef broth
For the Sauce (optional but recommended):
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon flour (for thickening)
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for added flavor)
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Steak Bites
Start by cutting the steak into bite-sized cubes. Try to keep the pieces uniform in size for even cooking. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This helps achieve a good sear before adding them to the Crockpot.
Step 2: Season the Steak Bites
In a large bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and dried thyme (if using). Add the steak cubes and toss them until they are evenly coated in the seasoning mixture. This step is crucial to building layers of flavor in each bite.
Step 3: Sear the Steak Bites (Optional, but Recommended)
While this step is optional, searing the steak bites before slow cooking helps lock in the flavors. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil. Once the pan is hot, add the steak cubes in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Sear the steak for about 1-2 minutes per side, until browned. This will create a rich, caramelized crust.
Step 4: Slow Cook the Steak Bites
Transfer the seared steak cubes to the Crockpot. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce (or Worcestershire sauce), beef broth, and any remaining seasoning mixture. Pour the liquid over the steak bites in the Crockpot. Stir to combine.
Set the Crockpot to low and cook for 4-6 hours, or until the steak bites are tender and have absorbed all the flavorful liquids.
Step 5: Make the Sauce (Optional)
While the steak bites are cooking, you can prepare a quick sauce to drizzle over the steak. In a separate skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the flour to form a roux, and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually add the beef broth and soy sauce, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer and thicken for 3-5 minutes. Once it reaches your desired consistency, remove it from heat.
Once the steak bites are cooked, drizzle the sauce over the top for an extra burst of flavor.
Variation
1. Mushroom Steak Bites:
Add sliced mushrooms to the Crockpot along with the steak bites for a savory, earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the beef.
2. Spicy Steak Bites:
For those who love a little heat, add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the seasoning mix. This will give the dish a spicy kick that contrasts nicely with the rich steak flavor.
3. Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites:
After the steak bites are done cooking, toss them in freshly grated Parmesan cheese and minced garlic for a decadent, garlicky twist.
4. Keto-Friendly Steak Bites:
Substitute the soy sauce with coconut aminos and omit the flour from the sauce to make this recipe keto-friendly while maintaining all the flavor.
COOKING Note
- Pat the steak dry: Ensuring that the steak is dry before searing or slow cooking will help it brown better and avoid excessive liquid during the cooking process.
- Use lean cuts of steak: While you can use various cuts of beef, leaner cuts such as sirloin or tenderloin are preferred as they remain tender when cooked in the Crockpot.
- Don’t skip the searing: While not mandatory, searing the steak bites before slow cooking adds a lot of flavor and texture to the dish.
- Be mindful of the sauce consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can let the sauce reduce for a few more minutes after cooking, or mix in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water) to thicken it.
Serving Suggestions
Crockpot Steak Bites are incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of sides to create a complete meal. Here are some suggestions for pairing:
- Mashed Potatoes: The rich and creamy mashed potatoes complement the tender steak bites perfectly.
- Steamed Vegetables: Roasted carrots, green beans, or asparagus would be a great addition to balance the richness of the steak.
- Rice: Serve the steak bites over a bed of fluffy rice or cauliflower rice for a lighter, low-carb option.
- Salad: A simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is an excellent way to cut through the richness of the steak.
- Garlic Bread: For a hearty touch, serve with warm garlic bread or crusty rolls to soak up the delicious juices from the Crockpot.
Tips
- Chill the steak: Before cutting the steak into bite-sized cubes, place it in the freezer for about 15-20 minutes. This makes the slicing process much easier and helps create uniform pieces.
- Slow-cook on low for best results: Slow cooking on low for 4-6 hours ensures that the steak bites become perfectly tender and absorb all the savory flavors.
- Use a meat thermometer: If you’re unsure about the doneness of your steak bites, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, aim for 130°F-135°F.
- Freeze leftovers: Crockpot Steak Bites freeze well for up to 3 months. Store them in an airtight container and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 4-6 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes to 6 hours 10 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 250 | Protein: 28g | Sodium: 450mg | Saturated Fat: 6g | Unsaturated Fat: 12g | Trans Fat: 0g | Carbohydrates: 5g | Fiber: 1g | Cholesterol: 70mg
FAQs
Can I use frozen steak for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen steak, but be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight for best results. Cooking frozen steak directly in the Crockpot may result in uneven cooking.
Can I make this recipe in a pressure cooker or Instant Pot?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, you can cook the steak bites in an Instant Pot. Set it to high pressure for 15 minutes, and the steak will be tender in no time.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
To make the sauce thicker, you can either reduce it by simmering it for longer or use a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) to thicken the sauce.
What cut of beef is best for this recipe?
Sirloin steak is an ideal choice for Crockpot Steak Bites. It’s lean, flavorful, and tender when slow-cooked. However, you can also use flank steak, ribeye, or tenderloin if you prefer.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the steak bites and the sauce a day ahead. Store them separately in the fridge, and then combine and reheat before serving.
Conclusion
Crockpot Steak Bites are a crowd-pleasing dish that brings together tender, flavorful steak with a savory sauce, all cooked effortlessly in a slow cooker. Whether you serve them with mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your household. It’s perfect for busy days when you want a hearty meal without all the work. Try it out today and enjoy the delicious flavors of perfectly cooked steak bites that are sure to impress!