These Easy Slow Cooker Steak Bites are super simple and packed with flavor! Just toss in tender steak pieces, seasonings, and let the slow cooker do its magic. Yum!
It’s perfect for busy days when you want a tasty meal without the fuss. I love coming home to the smell of delicious steak; it’s like a warm hug from the kitchen! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sirloin Steak or Stew Meat: I love using sirloin for its good flavor and tenderness. However, you can use chuck or ribeye if you prefer a richer flavor or if they are on sale!
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness. If you want something milder, try green onions or shallots instead. They give a nice taste without being overpowering.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for flavor. If you’re short on time, garlic powder can work, but fresh really makes a difference. I tend to use more than 4 cloves for an extra kick!
Beef Broth: It’s best for the rich taste. For a lighter option, try vegetable broth or even low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake.
How Do You Achieve Tender Steak Bites?
The secret to perfectly tender steak bites lies in the slow cooking process! Here’s how you can achieve that:
- Start by searing the steak in a skillet. This locks in juices and adds flavor. Don’t worry about cooking it through, just get that nice brown color.
- Layer the ingredients in the slow cooker. The seared steak on the bottom with onions and garlic will soak up all the delicious flavors while cooking.
- Cooking on LOW for a longer time is usually better for tenderness. If you’re in a rush, HIGH works too, but keep an eye out to avoid overcooking.
Feel free to taste and adjust seasonings before serving. Enjoy every bite!
Easy Slow Cooker Steak Bites
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs sirloin steak or stew meat, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Time Needed
This delicious recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time. Then, you just let the slow cooker work its magic for 4-6 hours on LOW or 2-3 hours on HIGH. So, in total, you’re looking at about 4-6 hours plus prep time. Easy and hands-off!
Instructions
1. Sear the Steak
To start, heat the oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Quickly put in the steak cubes in batches and sear them until they are brown on all sides but still not cooked through, which should take about 1-2 minutes per side. Once done, transfer the browned steak to your slow cooker.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
Next, in the same skillet, toss in the sliced onions and minced garlic. Sauté these for about 2-3 minutes until they are fragrant and softened. Then, add this delicious mixture right over the steak in the slow cooker.
3. Make the Flavorful Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the steak and onions in the slow cooker. Make sure everything is evenly coated for maximum flavor!
4. Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on LOW for 4-6 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the steak is tender and the flavors are melded together beautifully.
5. Stir and Serve
Once cooked, give the steak bites a gentle stir to coat with the rich sauce. This is where the magic happens! Now, if you like, garnish with fresh parsley to add a bit of color.
6. Enjoy!
Serve your tender steak bites hot over rice, mashed potatoes, or alongside your favorite vegetables. Enjoy this comforting meal that’s sure to impress!
These Easy Slow Cooker Steak Bites are not only delicious but also a breeze to prepare. Enjoy every mouthful!
Can I Use Frozen Steak for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen steak, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. Thaw the steak in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method: seal it in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water until thawed.
Can I Substitute Ingredients?
Absolutely! If you don’t have sirloin, try using chuck or ribeye for a richer flavor. You can also swap beef broth for vegetable broth or even use red wine for a deeper taste. Just adjust the salt if your substitutes contain sodium!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover steak bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave or warm it gently on the stove, adding a splash of beef broth to keep it moist.
What Should I Serve with Steak Bites?
These steak bites are versatile! They pair wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or a side of roasted veggies. You can also enjoy them in a tasty wrap or over a fresh salad for a lighter option!
