These Crockpot Steak Bites are tender, juicy, and packed with flavor, making them a perfect meal for any occasion. The sirloin steak is seasoned to perfection, seared to lock in the juices, and slow-cooked with onions, garlic, and savory au jus gravy mix. Serve these irresistible steak bites as a hearty main course or as a delicious appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
- 3 pounds sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 small sweet onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1 cup unsalted beef stock
- 1 1 ounce packet au jus gravy mix
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, thinly sliced
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Prepare the Steak Place the cubed steak into a large bowl and season with kosher salt and black pepper. Toss to combine evenly.
- Sear the Steak Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add half of the vegetable oil. Sear the steak pieces in batches until browned on all sides, then transfer them to the slow cooker. Add more oil to the pan if needed.
- Add Onion and Garlic Once all the steak has been seared, add the thinly sliced onion and garlic to the slow cooker. Toss with the steak bites.
- Prepare the Sauce Pour in the unsalted beef stock and sprinkle the au jus gravy mix over the top. Place slices of unsalted butter on top of the mixture.
- Slow Cook Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-8 hours, stirring every 30 minutes if possible.
- Serve Serve the steak bites warm, garnished with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Nutritional Information Prep Time: 15 min | Cooking Time: 4 hr 30 min | Total Time: 4 hr 45 min | Servings: 8
Serving and Storage Tips:
Serving Suggestions:
- Main Course: These Crockpot Steak Bites make a delicious main course served alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.
- Appetizer: Serve them as an appetizer at your next party or gathering. Pair them with toothpicks for easy serving.
- Sandwiches: Use leftover steak bites to make tasty sandwiches or wraps. Add some cheese, lettuce, and your favorite condiments for a quick and satisfying meal.
Garnish Options:
- Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or green onions over the steak bites before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.
- For a touch of heat, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce.
Storage Tips:
- Store any leftover steak bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To freeze, place the cooled steak bites in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
- When reheating, gently warm the steak bites in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. Add a splash of beef broth or water to prevent them from drying out.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy the deliciousness of Crockpot Steak Bites even beyond the initial serving, making them a convenient and versatile dish for any occasion.
Variations:
1. Teriyaki Steak Bites: Replace the au jus gravy mix with teriyaki sauce for a sweet and savory twist. Add some diced pineapple and bell peppers for extra flavor.
2. Garlic Herb Steak Bites: Infuse the steak with additional garlic and herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley for a fragrant and flavorful dish.
3. BBQ Steak Bites: Coat the steak bites in your favorite barbecue sauce before slow cooking for a tangy and smoky flavor profile.
4. Spicy Steak Bites: Kick up the heat by adding some chopped jalapenos or red pepper flakes to the steak seasoning mix.
5. Mushroom Steak Bites: Enhance the umami flavor by adding sliced mushrooms to the slow cooker along with the onions and garlic.
6. Asian-Inspired Steak Bites: Create an Asian-inspired marinade using soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil. Serve with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
7. Lemon Herb Steak Bites: Brighten up the dish with fresh lemon zest and a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, or parsley.
8. Mediterranean Steak Bites: Season the steak with Mediterranean spices like oregano, thyme, and paprika. Serve with tzatziki sauce and a Greek salad for a taste of the Mediterranean.
9. Red Wine Steak Bites: Substitute some of the beef stock with red wine for a rich and flavorful sauce. Pair with mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
10. Surf and Turf Steak Bites: Add some shrimp to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking for a surf and turf twist. Serve with garlic butter for dipping.
11. Smoky Chipotle Steak Bites: Add chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky and spicy kick. Serve with cilantro lime rice and black beans for a Tex-Mex flair.
12. Honey Garlic Steak Bites: Create a sweet and savory glaze using honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Drizzle the glaze over the cooked steak bites for irresistible flavor.
13. Creamy Mushroom Steak Bites: Make a creamy mushroom sauce by sautéing mushrooms with garlic, then adding heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Pour the sauce over the cooked steak bites for a decadent twist.
14. Italian Herb Steak Bites: Season the steak with Italian herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme. Serve with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese for an Italian-inspired meal.
15. Thai Basil Steak Bites: Infuse the steak with Thai flavors by marinating it in a mixture of fish sauce, soy sauce, lime juice, and fresh basil. Serve with jasmine rice and stir-fried vegetables for a taste of Thailand.
FAQs :
1. Can I use a different cut of meat for this recipe? Yes, you can use other cuts of beef such as ribeye or flank steak. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the cut of meat used.
2. Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot instead of a slow cooker? Yes, you can adapt this recipe for the Instant Pot. Follow the same steps for seasoning and searing the steak, then cook on high pressure for about 15-20 minutes with a natural release.
3. Can I use frozen steak for this recipe? It’s best to use thawed steak for optimal flavor and texture. If using frozen steak, ensure it is fully thawed before cooking to avoid uneven cooking.
4. How can I make this recipe gluten-free? Use a gluten-free au jus gravy mix or make your own gravy using gluten-free ingredients.
5. Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker with the steak? Yes, you can add vegetables like potatoes, carrots, or bell peppers to the slow cooker for a complete meal.
6. Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd? Yes, you can easily double or triple the ingredients to feed a larger group. Use a larger slow cooker or cook in batches if needed.
7. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the steak bites ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. Simply follow the recipe up to the point of cooking and refrigerate until needed.
8. How do I prevent the steak from becoming tough? Searing the steak before slow cooking helps to lock in the juices and keep the meat tender. Be sure not to overcook the steak, as it can become tough if cooked for too long.
9. Can I add wine to this recipe? Yes, you can add a splash of red wine for extra flavor. Adjust the amount of beef stock accordingly if adding wine.
10. Can I make this recipe spicy? Yes, you can add additional spices or hot sauce to make the steak bites spicy according to your preference. Adjust the amount of spice to suit your taste.
Indulge in these succulent Crockpot Steak Bites, cooked to perfection and bursting with rich, savory flavors that will leave your taste buds craving for more!