Garlic Butter Crockpot Steak Bites – Easy Slow Cooker Recipe
Crockpot Steak Bites are a savory, tender, and juicy dinner option that’s both effortless and incredibly flavorful. Slow-cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce, these bite-sized steak pieces are perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or entertaining guests. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this dish is a hearty favorite for meat lovers.
History and Origins
Steak bites are a modern twist on classic steak dishes, born out of the desire to enjoy the richness of steak in a more convenient and shareable form. The slow cooker variation became popular as home cooks sought low-maintenance ways to tenderize tougher cuts of beef and infuse them with flavor. Inspired by traditional beef tips and gravy, Crockpot Steak Bites combine the simplicity of slow cooking with bold seasonings and tender results, ideal for hands-off cooking.
Crockpot Steak Bites Recipe
These garlic butter Crockpot Steak Bites melt in your mouth and require just a few pantry staples.
Ingredients Table
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Sirloin steak (or stew meat), cut into 1-inch cubes | 2 pounds |
Olive oil | 1 tbsp |
Minced garlic | 1 tbsp |
Beef broth | 1 cup |
Worcestershire sauce | 2 tbsp |
Soy sauce | 1 tbsp |
Butter, sliced into pats | 4 tbsp |
Italian seasoning | 1 tsp |
Salt | 1 tsp |
Black pepper | ½ tsp |
Red pepper flakes (optional) | ¼ tsp |
Fresh parsley (for garnish) | Optional |
Nutrition Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 370 kcal |
Protein | 32g |
Fat | 25g |
Saturated Fat | 10g |
Carbohydrates | 3g |
Fiber | 0g |
Sugar | 1g |
Sodium | 850mg |
Cholesterol | 90mg |
Instructions
1: Sear the Steak (Optional)
- In a hot skillet with 1 tbsp olive oil, quickly sear steak bites for 1–2 minutes to brown the outside. This step adds flavor but can be skipped for convenience.
2: Add to Crockpot
- Transfer steak bites to the Crockpot. Add minced garlic, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
3: Add Butter
- Place butter pats evenly over the steak bites.
4: Cook
- Cover and cook on Low for 6–7 hours or on High for 3–4 hours, until the steak is fork-tender.
5: Serve
- Stir gently and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze cooled steak bites in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to maintain moisture.
Additional Information
- Cut Suggestions: Sirloin is recommended, but chuck roast or stew meat also works well.
- Make It Keto: Skip soy sauce or use coconut aminos, and serve over cauliflower mash or zoodles.
- Add Veggies: Toss in mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions during the last hour for a one-pot meal.
- Flavor Boost: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of rosemary for extra depth.
Advantages
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Set-it-and-forget-it meal | Long cooking time |
Budget-friendly steak alternative | May require searing for best flavor |
Kid-friendly and protein-rich | Not ideal for rare/medium-rare steak lovers |
Versatile serving options | Slightly high in sodium |
FAQs
Yes! Chuck roast, stew meat, or even ribeye (for a treat) work well.
It’s optional. Searing enhances flavor and texture but isn’t necessary for tender results.
Mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, roasted vegetables, or over a salad.
Yes! Remove the meat, then whisk in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water) and simmer until thickened.
Conclusion
Crockpot Steak Bites are a fuss-free, flavorful way to enjoy steak without the hassle of grilling or pan-frying. Juicy, garlicky, and packed with savory richness, they’re ideal for family dinners or meal prepping. With just a few ingredients and your slow cooker, you can turn a simple cut of beef into a restaurant-worthy meal.