Slow Cooker Steak Bites

Name: Slow Cooker Steak Bites
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 pounds sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 teaspoons kosher salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small sweet onion, thinly sliced; 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced; 1 cup unsalted beef stock or broth; 1 ounce au jus gravy mix (1 packet); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, thinly sliced; Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)

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There’s something truly comforting about a dish that requires minimal effort yet delivers maximum flavor. I still remember the first time I made slow cooker steak bites—after a long day, I came home to a kitchen filled with the rich aroma of slow-cooked beef, garlic, and butter. It was like walking into a cozy hug. This recipe is a lifesaver for busy days when you want a satisfying meal without standing over the stove.

If you’re new to cooking, this is a perfect dish to start with. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it meal that uses simple ingredients, requires minimal prep, and turns out delicious every time. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or even with a side of roasted vegetables. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot in your weekly meal rotation.

Why This Recipe Is Special

Effortless and Beginner-Friendly

Unlike cooking a whole steak, which requires careful attention to temperature and doneness, these steak bites cook slowly, ensuring they’re tender and flavorful every time. There’s no need to worry about overcooking or undercooking.

Rich, Deep Flavor

Thanks to the slow-cooking process, the beef absorbs all the flavors from garlic, onions, and the au jus mix, creating a dish that’s bursting with umami goodness.

Versatile and Customizable

Whether you prefer sirloin, chuck roast, or stew meat, you can make this dish work with what you have. You can also experiment with seasonings like Montreal steak spice or add mushrooms for extra depth.

Ingredients and Their Role

Beef (Sirloin, Chuck, or Stew Meat) – The star of the dish. Sirloin is lean and tender, while chuck and stew meat become fall-apart soft when slow-cooked.

Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – Enhance the natural beef flavor.
Olive Oil – Helps sear the meat for a richer taste and caramelized crust.
Sweet Onion & Garlic – Provide a savory base that deepens the overall flavor.

Unsalted Beef Stock – Keeps the meat juicy and infuses it with extra flavor.
Au Jus Gravy Mix – Creates a flavorful, restaurant-quality sauce with minimal effort.
Unsalted Butter – Adds a silky, rich finish.

Fresh Parsley – A pop of color and freshness for garnish.

Ingredient Swaps:

Swap olive oil with vegetable oil if that’s what you have.
Use low-sodium beef broth if you can’t find unsalted stock.

Add thyme or rosemary for an herbal touch.
Stir in mushrooms for extra umami.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Season the steak bites with salt and pepper in a large bowl, ensuring all sides are coated for balanced seasoning.

Step 2: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add half the olive oil. Sear the steak bites in batches until browned on all sides. This step locks in moisture and enhances flavor.

Step 3: Transfer the seared steak bites to a slow cooker. Add the sliced onion and garlic on top.

Step 4: Pour in the beef stock, sprinkle the au jus mix evenly, and place the butter slices over the top.

Step 5: Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. Stir every 30 minutes if possible, but it’s not required.

Step 6: Once done, garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice.

Beginner Tips and Notes

Searing Matters – While optional, searing the beef before slow cooking deepens the flavor and adds texture.

Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet – Sear the steak in batches to ensure a nice crust forms.
Make It Spicy – Add red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.
Thicker Gravy? – Stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water) at the end.

Serving Suggestions

Classic Comfort: Serve over creamy mashed potatoes for the ultimate cozy meal.
Light & Healthy: Pair with roasted zucchini or a crisp side salad.
Appetizer Twist: Serve as bite-sized pieces with toothpicks and a side of BBQ sauce or horseradish dip.

Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Freeze for up to 3 months and reheat in the microwave or stovetop.

Now that you have an easy, flavorful slow cooker recipe, give it a try and let me know how it turns out. Did you add any unique ingredients? Serve it with something creative? Share your experience in the comments! Cooking is all about experimenting and making a dish your own, and I can’t wait to hear how you enjoyed this one. Happy cooking!

FAQ About Slow Cooker Steak Bites

Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

Yes! While sirloin is a great choice for tenderness, you can also use chuck roast, round steak, or beef stew meat. Just keep in mind that some cuts may take longer to become tender.

Do I need to sear the steak before adding it to the slow cooker?

Searing is optional, but it enhances the flavor by creating a rich caramelization on the beef. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step and still have delicious steak bites.

How do I thicken the gravy?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Can I cook this on high instead of low?

Yes, you can cook it on high for 3–4 hours, but for the most tender steak bites, cooking on low for 6–8 hours is recommended.

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