These Slow Cooker Steak Bites are tender, juicy pieces of steak that cook perfectly while you relax. Just toss everything in the slow cooker, and you’re set!
Honestly, they’re so easy to make, it’s like the meal is cooking itself. I love serving these with rice or veggies—they just soak up the tasty juices. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Steak: For juicy bites, sirloin or ribeye are my favorites; they’re tender and flavorful. If you’re on a budget, chuck steak works well too and gets tender with slow cooking.
Soy Sauce: This is vital for umami flavor. Low-sodium soy sauce can be a good alternative if you’re watching your salt, or try tamari for a gluten-free option.
Beef Broth: This adds depth to the sauce. If you’re short on broth, vegetable broth or even water can work, just adjust seasoning as needed.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be used. Aim for 1/2 teaspoon of powder per clove.
Onions: A medium onion adds sweetness. Feel free to swap with shallots for a mild flavor or green onions for a fresh twist.
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds complexity. A few drops of hot sauce can work in a pinch for some zip!
How Do I Get the Most Flavor with Searing?
Searing the steak bites is key for adding rich flavor to your dish. It creates a beautiful brown crust that enhances the overall taste. Here’s how to sear them perfectly:
- Preheat your skillet on medium-high heat before adding olive oil.
- Cook the steak bites in batches, leaving space between them. This prevents steaming and ensures they brown nicely.
- Don’t rush it; sear for about 4-5 minutes until they’re golden.
- Once done, transfer them to the slow cooker. Keeping those browned bits in the skillet will add even more flavor to your dish if you deglaze it with a splash of broth before adding it to the slow cooker.
How to Make Slow Cooker Steak Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak Bites:
- 2 pounds beef steak (such as sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus your slow cooker will handle the cooking for around 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Just prepare the ingredients, let the slow cooker do its magic, and your flavorful steak bites will be ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Searing the Steak (Optional):
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized steak pieces to the skillet and sear them for about 4-5 minutes, turning to brown all sides. This step adds extra flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can skip it and still get delicious results!
2. Combining the Ingredients:
In your slow cooker, add the soy sauce, beef broth, minced garlic, diced onion, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Give everything a good stir to mix all the ingredients together.
3. Adding the Steak:
Now, add the seared steak bites into the slow cooker, making sure they are nicely coated in the flavorful sauce you just mixed. This will help keep the meat tender and tasty!
4. Cooking Time:
Cover the slow cooker and cook the steak bites on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The meat should be tender and ready to eat! Set a timer and let the slow cooker do all the hard work for you.
5. Finishing Touches:
Once the cooking time is up, stir the steak bites in the sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning if you think it needs a little extra salt or pepper. It’s all about your preference!
6. Serving Suggestions:
Serve your hot steak bites in a bowl, garnished with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy them with rice, potatoes, or just on their own as a scrumptious appetizer. Get ready for everyone to ask for seconds!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Absolutely! If you prefer a leaner cut, you can use flank steak or tenderloin. Just keep in mind that tougher cuts, like chuck roast, may need a bit longer cooking time for tenderness. Avoid cuts that are too lean, as they might not be as flavorful after cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Soy Sauce?
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try tamari or coconut aminos. For a different flavor profile, you can use liquid aminos, which will give a similar taste. If you want a soy-free option, you can mix equal parts of balsamic vinegar and water as a substitute.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the steak bites the night before, sear them, then store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. Just be sure to mix the sauce ingredients together the same day for the best flavor. Cook as directed when you’re ready to eat!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them! Just let the steak bites cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and heat through on the stovetop.
