Crockpot Steak Bites

These Crockpot Steak Bites are juicy, flavorful, and unbelievably easy to make. With tender sirloin steak simmering in a rich au jus sauce, this slow-cooked dish is perfect for busy nights or gatherings. Just sear, set, and forget! Ideal for any occasion, these bites will impress your family and friends with their delightful taste and effortless preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Minimal hands-on time means you can spend more time with family or guests.
• Flavorful Outcome: The slow cooking process allows the steak to absorb all the delicious flavors of the broth and spices.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as an appetizer or main course, these bites can be served with various sides.
• Comfort Food Classic: A warm, hearty dish that satisfies cravings and brings joy to any meal.
• Crowd-Pleasing Choice: Great for game nights or family dinners; everyone loves a good steak bite!

Tools and Preparation

To create your Crockpot Steak Bites effortlessly, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker (Crockpot)
• Skillet
• Large bowl
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker (Crockpot): This is essential for slow cooking your steak bites to perfection while you focus on other tasks.
• Skillet: Used for searing the steak, enhancing flavor through caramelization before it cooks in the Crockpot.
• Large bowl: Ideal for mixing ingredients like salt and pepper with the steak pieces before cooking.

Ingredients

To make these delicious Crockpot Steak Bites, gather the following ingredients:

For the Steak Bites

• 3 pounds sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce

• 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 (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Crockpot Steak Bites

Step 1: Season the Steak

Place steak pieces in a large bowl and toss with kosher salt and black pepper until evenly coated.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Sear half of the seasoned steak pieces until browned on all sides. Repeat with the remaining tablespoon of oil and remaining steak.

Step 3: Transfer to Crockpot

Transfer all seared steak to a 6-quart Crockpot.

Step 4: Add Aromatics

Add sliced onion and garlic on top of the steak. Toss gently to combine.

Step 5: Pour in Stock

Pour unsalted beef stock over everything in the Crockpot. Sprinkle au jus gravy mix evenly on top.

Step 6: Add Butter

Lay slices of unsalted butter evenly over the steak mixture for added richness.

Step 7: Cook

Cover and cook on HIGH for 3–4 hours or LOW for 6–8 hours until tender.

Step 8: Serve

Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving, if desired. Enjoy your flavorful Crockpot Steak Bites!

How to Serve Crockpot Steak Bites

Crockpot Steak Bites are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just enjoying a quiet night at home, these bites make for an excellent dish that can be paired with various sides and garnishes.

With Rice

• Cooked white or brown rice complements the savory flavors of the steak and absorbs the delicious au jus sauce perfectly.

In Tacos

• Use soft tortillas to create tasty tacos filled with steak bites, topped with fresh salsa, avocado, and shredded lettuce for a fun twist.

Over Mashed Potatoes

• Serve the steak bites over creamy mashed potatoes. The rich gravy enhances the potatoes, making each bite irresistible.

As Party Appetizers

• Skewer the steak bites onto toothpicks for easy serving at parties. They are a great finger food option that guests will love.

With Salad

• Pair the steak bites with a refreshing garden salad. The freshness of the greens balances the richness of the meat.

On Crusty Bread

• Serve on slices of crusty bread as an open-faced sandwich. Top with melted cheese for a delicious melt-in-your-mouth experience.

How to Perfect Crockpot Steak Bites

Perfecting your Crockpot Steak Bites is simple with a few key tips. Follow these suggestions to enhance flavor and texture.

• Choose Quality Meat: Select high-quality sirloin steak for tender and flavorful bites.
• Sear Before Slow Cooking: Searing the steak first adds depth to the flavor and enhances caramelization.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onions and garlic elevate the dish’s overall taste.
• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak salt and pepper levels according to your preference for optimal flavor.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit after cooking can help flavors meld together even more.
• Garnish Creatively: Fresh parsley or other herbs can brighten up your dish visually and add freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Steak Bites

When serving Crockpot Steak Bites, consider pairing them with complementary side dishes. Here are some delicious options:

1. Garlic Bread – A perfect side that pairs well with steak bites; use it to soak up extra sauce.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables roasted until tender add color and nutrients to your meal.
3. Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the steak.
4. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn on the cob is a great summer side that brings sweetness to balance savory notes.
5. Baked Sweet Potatoes – Their natural sweetness contrasts nicely with the savory beef, adding nutritional value too.
6. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette offers a healthy grain alternative full of flavor.
7. Steamed Broccoli – Simple steamed broccoli adds color, nutrition, and crunch alongside your hearty main dish.
8. Macaroni and Cheese – Creamy mac and cheese is always a crowd-pleaser that provides comfort alongside your steak bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can take your Crockpot Steak Bites from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Bold seasoning: Not seasoning the steak before cooking can lead to bland bites. Always season your meat with salt and pepper before searing for maximum flavor.
• Overcrowding the pan: Searing too much steak at once can lower the pan’s temperature, preventing a proper sear. Cook in batches to achieve that delicious brown crust.
• Ignoring the cooking time: Cooking the steak bites for too long can make them tough. Follow recommended cooking times for the best texture.
• Not using enough liquid: Insufficient broth can result in dry steak bites. Make sure there’s enough liquid in the Crockpot to keep it moist throughout cooking.
• Skipping garnishes: Forgetting to add fresh parsley or other garnishes can make your dish look less appealing. A simple garnish enhances both presentation and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Crockpot Steak Bites

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with dates to keep track of freshness.

Reheating Crockpot Steak Bites

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place steak bites in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe dish. Heat on medium power, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of broth, and warm the steak bites while stirring gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Crockpot Steak Bites.

Can I use other cuts of beef for Crockpot Steak Bites?

Yes! While sirloin works great, you can also try chuck roast or flank steak for different flavors and textures.

How do I make my Crockpot Steak Bites spicier?

To add heat, include red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when adding onion and garlic.

Can I make Crockpot Steak Bites without beef stock?

Absolutely! You can substitute with chicken stock or vegetable broth if you prefer a different flavor base.

What side dishes pair well with Crockpot Steak Bites?

These steak bites are delicious served with mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How do I store leftovers from my Crockpot Steak Bites?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Steak Bites are not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to suit any occasion. You can customize them by adding your favorite vegetables or spices according to your taste. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a comforting meal any night of the week!