Description: Tender, juicy, and bursting with savory goodness, these Crockpot Steak Bites are the epitome of easy comfort food. Perfect for a casual weeknight dinner, a relaxed weekend gathering, or whenever you crave a satisfying and flavorful meal, this recipe delivers melt-in-your-mouth steak bites with minimal effort. Let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy the delicious aroma that fills your home!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs (900g) sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch bite-sized cubes (Sirloin is preferred for its balance of tenderness and flavor, but chuck steak can also be used, though cooking time may need adjusting.)
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce (Low-sodium helps control the saltiness of the dish. Regular soy sauce can be used, but you may want to reduce the quantity.)
- 1/4 cup beef broth (Beef broth adds depth of flavor and helps keep the steak moist during the slow cooking process. Low-sodium is also recommended.)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce (This adds a savory umami flavor that complements the steak perfectly.)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced (Freshly minced garlic provides the best flavor. Garlic powder can be substituted in a pinch, using about 1 teaspoon.)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder (Onion powder enhances the overall savory profile of the dish.)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (Smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky flavor that elevates the steak bites.)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (Freshly ground black pepper is recommended for the best flavor.)
- 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces (Butter adds richness and helps create a luscious sauce.)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional) (Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note. Other herbs like chives or thyme can also be used.)
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Steak: Begin by thoroughly patting the sirloin steak cubes dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is crucial for achieving a better sear (if desired) and enhancing the browning process during cooking. While a sear isn’t essential for this slow cooker recipe, it does contribute to a richer, more developed flavor profile. If searing, heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and quickly sear the steak cubes in batches until browned on all sides. Don’t overcrowd the pan, or the steak will steam instead of sear.
Step 2: Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Ensure all ingredients are well combined to create a flavorful marinade that will infuse the steak bites with savory goodness. Taste the marinade and adjust seasonings as needed to suit your preference.
Step 3: Combine and Coat: Place the steak cubes in the crockpot. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring that all pieces are evenly coated. Use a spoon or spatula to gently toss the steak, making sure the marinade penetrates every nook and cranny. The more thorough the coating, the more flavorful the steak bites will be.
Step 4: Add Butter for Richness: Scatter the butter pieces evenly over the steak in the crockpot. As the butter melts during the slow cooking process, it will add richness and create a luscious sauce that coats the steak bites, making them incredibly tender and flavorful.
Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover the crockpot and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours, until the steak bites are tender and practically melt in your mouth. The exact cooking time may vary depending on your crockpot, so it’s always best to check for doneness using a fork. The steak should be easily pierced with a fork and should shred apart with minimal effort.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This Crockpot Steak Bites recipe is a winner for so many reasons! First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. With minimal prep time and a hands-off cooking method, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to focus on other things while a delicious meal is being prepared.
Secondly, the steak bites are incredibly tender and flavorful. The slow cooking process allows the steak to become incredibly tender, while the marinade infuses it with a rich and savory flavor. The addition of butter adds a luxurious touch, creating a melt-in-your-mouth texture that is simply irresistible.
Finally, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can serve the steak bites over mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or even polenta. They also make a fantastic appetizer, served with toothpicks for easy snacking. The possibilities are endless!
COOKING Rating: Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Over Mashed Potatoes: Spoon the steak bites and their luscious sauce over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes for a classic comfort food meal.
- Over Rice: Serve the steak bites over fluffy rice (white, brown, or jasmine) for a simple and satisfying dinner.
- As an Appetizer: Serve the steak bites on their own as a mouthwatering appetizer, with toothpicks for easy grabbing.
- In Tacos or Burritos: Shred the steak bites and use them as a filling for tacos or burritos.
- Over Pasta: Toss the steak bites and their sauce with your favorite pasta for a quick and easy weeknight meal.
- With Roasted Vegetables: Serve the steak bites alongside roasted vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts.
Tips:
- Choose the Right Cut of Steak: Sirloin steak is recommended for its balance of tenderness and flavor. However, chuck steak can also be used, though cooking time may need to be adjusted.
- Don’t Overcook: Overcooking the steak can result in dry, tough bites. Check for doneness after the recommended cooking time and adjust as needed.
- Sear the Steak (Optional): Searing the steak before adding it to the crockpot can enhance the flavor and create a richer, more complex dish.
- Use Low-Sodium Ingredients: Using low-sodium soy sauce and beef broth helps control the saltiness of the dish.
- Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Taste the marinade and adjust seasonings as needed to suit your preference.
- Add Vegetables (Optional): Add chopped vegetables such as onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the crockpot for a heartier meal.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4-5 hours (on low) or 2-3 hours (on high)
Total Time: Approximately 4 hours 10 minutes (on low)
Nutritional Information: (Approximate, may vary based on specific ingredients used)
- Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving
- Protein: Approximately 35g per serving
- Sodium: Approximately 400mg per serving (will vary depending on soy sauce and broth used)
Conclusion:
These Crockpot Steak Bites are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Their tender texture, savory flavor, and ease of preparation make them the perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your crockpot, and get ready to enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience!
Questions and Answers about this Recipe:
Q1: Can I use a different cut of steak?
A: While sirloin is recommended for its balance of tenderness and flavor, you can certainly use other cuts of steak. Chuck steak is a good alternative, as it becomes very tender when slow-cooked. However, you may need to adjust the cooking time, as chuck steak typically requires a longer cooking time to break down and become tender. Avoid using leaner cuts like flank steak, as they can become dry in the slow cooker.
Q2: Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Adding vegetables is a great way to make this recipe even more nutritious and flavorful. Some excellent choices include chopped onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, carrots, or celery. Add the vegetables to the crockpot along with the steak and marinade, and they will cook alongside the steak, absorbing all the delicious flavors.
Q3: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can definitely make this recipe ahead of time. In fact, the flavor often improves when the steak bites are allowed to sit in the marinade for a longer period. You can prepare the steak and marinade the night before and store them in the refrigerator. Then, simply transfer the mixture to the crockpot in the morning and cook according to the recipe instructions. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Q4: What can I do if the sauce is too thin?
A: If the sauce is too thin after the steak bites are cooked, you can easily thicken it using a simple cornstarch slurry. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Stir the slurry into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking, and the sauce will thicken as it simmers.
Q5: Can I freeze these steak bites?
A: Yes, these steak bites freeze very well! Allow the steak bites to cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. The steak bites can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw the steak bites in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
