Crockpot Steak Bites

These Crockpot Steak Bites are not just delicious; they’re also incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this dish allows you to enjoy tender, juicy steak simmered in a rich au jus sauce with minimal effort. With just a few ingredients and your trusty slow cooker, you can create a meal that’s sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply sear the steak, toss everything in the Crockpot, and let it cook while you relax.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of beef stock, au jus mix, and butter creates a deeply savory taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve these steak bites over rice, mashed potatoes, or on their own as a hearty appetizer.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a game day snack, these steak bites fit right in.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dish: With tender sirloin and robust flavors, this recipe is sure to be a hit with friends and family.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather the essential tools needed for this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker (Crockpot)
• Skillet
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker (Crockpot): This is the star of the show, allowing you to slow-cook the steak to perfection without constant supervision.
• Skillet: Searing the steak in a skillet helps lock in juices and enhance flavor before it hits the Crockpot.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need for these flavorful Crockpot Steak Bites:

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
• 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 them 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 and sear half of the seasoned steak until browned. Remove from heat and repeat with remaining oil and steak.

Step 3: Transfer to Crockpot

Transfer all seared steak pieces into your 6-quart Crockpot.

Step 4: Add Aromatics

Add thinly sliced onion and garlic on top of the steak. Gently toss them together to mix.

Step 5: Pour Stock & Sprinkle Mix

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

Step 6: Add Butter

Lay thin slices of unsalted butter evenly over the mixture in your Crockpot.

Step 7: Cook

Cover your Crockpot and cook on HIGH for 3–4 hours or LOW for 6–8 hours until the steak is tender.

Step 8: Garnish & Serve

Before serving, garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy your delicious Crockpot Steak Bites!

How to Serve Crockpot Steak Bites

Crockpot Steak Bites are versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides or served in different ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

On a Bed of Rice

• White or brown rice is perfect for soaking up the flavorful au jus sauce.
• Serve the steak bites over rice for a hearty and filling dish.

In Tacos

• Use soft tortillas to create delicious steak tacos.
• Top with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and avocado for added flavor.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes make an ideal comfort food companion.
• Spoon the steak and sauce over the potatoes for a delightful combination.

As Sliders

• Serve the steak bites on small buns as sliders for a fun appetizer.
• Add cheese and pickles for an extra burst of flavor.

On a Salad

• Toss the steak bites onto a fresh salad for added protein.
• Pair with your favorite dressing and some crunchy toppings like croutons.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve alongside slices of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• This is great for those who love a good dipping option.

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How to Perfect Crockpot Steak Bites

To ensure your Crockpot Steak Bites turn out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips.

• Choose quality meat: Select fresh sirloin steak for the best flavor and tenderness.
• Sear properly: Browning the steak before slow cooking enhances its overall taste.
• Don’t skip the seasoning: Seasoning with salt and pepper boosts the flavors significantly.
• Use low sodium broth: Opt for low-sodium beef stock if you’re watching your salt intake.
• Layer ingredients wisely: Place onions and garlic on top of the meat to infuse their flavors during cooking.
• Let it rest: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking before serving; this helps redistribute juices.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Steak Bites

Crockpot Steak Bites pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some delicious options to complement your meal.

1. Garlic Bread: A crunchy side that pairs well with the savory sauce.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until tender add color and nutrition.
3. Coleslaw: A refreshing slaw provides a nice crunch against the tender steak bites.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a delightful sweetness to balance out savory flavors.
5. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes offer another hearty base for your steak bites.
6. Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans with almonds offer elegance and texture.
7. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad brings freshness and complements the rich meat dish.
8. Cauliflower Mash: A lower-carb alternative to mashed potatoes that’s creamy and satisfying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Crockpot Steak Bites, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the Sear: Not searing the steak before adding it to the crockpot can lead to less flavor in your dish. Always take the time to brown your meat first for a richer taste.
• Overcrowding the Crockpot: If you add too much meat, it may cook unevenly. Stick to the recommended amount of steak for best results.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Cooking on HIGH vs. LOW can change the texture of your steak. Make sure to follow the time guidelines provided in the recipe.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap cuts of meat or low-quality broth can affect flavor. Opt for good quality sirloin and fresh ingredients for better outcomes.
• Forgetting to Add Liquid: Not adding enough broth can result in dry steak bites. Ensure you pour in adequate liquid for proper slow cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Keep It Covered: Store leftover steak bites in an airtight container.
• Consume Within 3 Days: For optimal freshness, eat within three days.

Freezing Crockpot Steak Bites

• Use Freezer-Safe Containers: Store in freezer bags or containers designed for freezing.
• Label & Date: Mark containers with date and contents to keep track.
• Best Used Within 2 Months: For best quality, consume within two months.

Reheating Crockpot Steak Bites

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated through.

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 is recommended for its tenderness, you can also use chuck roast or flank steak.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Crockpot Steak Bites?

Adding herbs like rosemary or thyme can elevate the taste. You might also incorporate mushrooms or bell peppers.

What side dishes pair well with Crockpot Steak Bites?

These steak bites go great with mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple salad.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free au jus mix and ensure that your beef stock is also gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

These Crockpot Steak Bites are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, this recipe allows room for customization according to your taste preferences. Try adding different spices or vegetables to make it your own!