Crockpot Steak Bites

These Crockpot Steak Bites are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings. The sirloin steak becomes tender as it simmers in a delicious au jus sauce, infusing every bite with rich flavor. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also offer a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Just sear the steak and let your Crockpot do the work—no constant monitoring required!
• Flavor Packed: The combination of beef stock, au jus mix, and garlic creates a mouthwatering sauce that perfectly complements the steak.
• Versatile Meal: Serve these steak bites on their own, over rice, or with bread for a complete meal.
• Great for Gatherings: This recipe yields six servings, making it ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests.
• Easily Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or spices to personalize this dish to your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Crockpot Steak Bites successfully, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker (Crockpot): Ensures even cooking and keeps the steak tender while allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Skillet: Perfect for searing the steak before adding it to the Crockpot, enhancing its flavor through caramelization.
• Sharp knife: Makes cutting the sirloin into bite-sized pieces an easy task.
• Mixing bowl: Provides a convenient space to season your steak before cooking.

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 Flavor Base

• 1 small sweet onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

For Cooking Liquid

• 1 cup unsalted beef stock or broth
• 1 ounce au jus gravy mix (1 packet)

For Finishing Touches

• 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. Sear half of the seasoned steak pieces until browned on all sides. Repeat this process with the remaining oil and steak.

Step 3: Transfer to Crockpot

Once seared, transfer all the steak into a 6-quart Crockpot.

Step 4: Add Aromatics

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

Step 5: Pour in Broth

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

Step 6: Add Butter

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

Step 7: Cook

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

Step 8: Serve

Garnish with fresh 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 served in various ways. Whether you want a hearty meal or a light snack, these steak bites fit the bill perfectly.

Serve Over Rice

• Serving over fluffy white or brown rice allows the flavorful juices to soak in, creating a comforting dish.

Pair with Mashed Potatoes

• The creamy texture of mashed potatoes complements the rich sauce of the steak bites, making for a filling meal.

In a Sandwich

• Use crusty bread or a soft roll to make a delicious steak sandwich. Add some sautéed onions for extra flavor!

With Fresh Salad

• A side salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty steak bites.

As Appetizers

• Serve smaller portions as appetizers at gatherings. Provide toothpicks for easy serving and eating.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Grilled vegetables add color and nutrition. The smoky flavor pairs well with the savory steak bites.

How to Perfect Crockpot Steak Bites

To ensure your Crockpot Steak Bites turn out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Meat: Opt for well-marbled sirloin steak for tenderness and flavor.
• Sear Before Cooking: Searing the meat enhances its taste, adding depth to the final dish.
• Don’t Skip the Broth: Using beef stock enriches the sauce, making it more flavorful.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving; you can always add more salt or pepper if needed.
• Garnish for Freshness: Fresh parsley not only brightens up the dish but adds a hint of freshness.
• Store Leftovers Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Steak Bites

Crockpot Steak Bites pair wonderfully with various sides that enhance their flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread
   Perfect for soaking up the tasty au jus sauce; buttered garlic bread is always a hit.

2. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal veggies like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers roasted until tender add color and nutrition.

3. Coleslaw
   A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing bite that balances the richness of the steak bites.

4. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad with herbs and lemon dressing is nutritious and complements the steak without overpowering it.

5. Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn on the cob is simple yet satisfying; its sweetness contrasts beautifully with savory flavors.

6. Sweet Potato Fries
   Crispy sweet potato fries offer a delightful crunch and natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with beef dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crockpot Steak Bites, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Searing: Not searing the steak can lead to less flavor. Always sear your meat first to lock in juices and enhance taste.
• Overcrowding the Crockpot: Adding too much steak at once may prevent even cooking. Cook in batches if necessary to maintain optimal results.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Different slow cookers have varying heat levels. Check your dish periodically to ensure it doesn’t overcook or dry out.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap meats can affect the overall flavor of the dish. Choose good-quality sirloin for the best Crockpot Steak Bites experience.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Under-seasoning can make your dish bland. Don’t skip on salt and pepper; they elevate the flavors significantly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Crockpot Steak Bites in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Crockpot Steak Bites

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• You can freeze them for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crockpot Steak Bites

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary to keep moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Crockpot Steak Bites that might help you out:

What type of meat is best for Crockpot Steak Bites?

Sirloin steak is ideal due to its balance of flavor and tenderness when slow-cooked.

Can I use other cuts of beef?

Yes, cuts like chuck or flank steak work well, but cooking times may vary.

How do I make my Crockpot Steak Bites more flavorful?

Consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra layer of flavor along with the basics.

What should I serve with Crockpot Steak Bites?

They pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or even a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and store it in advance, then reheat when ready to enjoy.

Final Thoughts

These Crockpot Steak Bites are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Whether for a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Try it out today!