Crockpot Steak Bites

These Crockpot Steak Bites are perfect for a cozy night in or an easy weeknight dinner. With tender sirloin steak simmering in a rich au jus sauce, this dish is both flavorful and satisfying. The beauty of these steak bites lies in their simplicity—just sear, set, and forget in your trusty Crockpot!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Simply sear the steak and let the Crockpot do the rest. Perfect for busy days.
• Rich Flavor: The au jus sauce infuses each bite with a savory taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a main course or served over rice, mashed potatoes, or in sandwiches.
• Family-Friendly: This recipe is sure to please both kids and adults alike!
• Leftover Magic: Enjoy delicious leftovers that taste even better the next day.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making these Crockpot Steak Bites, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 6-quart Crockpot
• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• 6-quart Crockpot: Ideal for slow cooking large portions like this steak dish.
• Large skillet: Perfect for searing the steak to lock in flavor before slow cooking.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for the steak and vegetables.

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 Aromatics

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

For the Sauce

• 1 cup unsalted beef stock or broth
• 1 ounce au jus gravy mix (1 packet)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, thinly sliced

For Garnish

• Fresh chopped parsley (optional)

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 and sear half of the seasoned steak pieces until browned. Remove from skillet and repeat with remaining oil and steak.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Crockpot

Transfer all seared steak to a 6-quart Crockpot. Add sliced sweet onion and garlic, tossing gently to combine.

Step 4: Add Stock and Gravy Mix

Pour unsalted beef stock over the steak mixture. Sprinkle au jus gravy mix on top evenly.

Step 5: Finish with Butter

Lay thin slices of unsalted butter evenly over the top of the ingredients in the Crockpot.

Step 6: Cook

Cover and cook on HIGH for 3–4 hours or LOW for 6–8 hours. Enjoy your amazingly tender Crockpot Steak Bites!

Step 7: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving if desired. Enjoy these delectable bites as your main dish!

How to Serve Crockpot Steak Bites

Crockpot Steak Bites are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways to suit your taste. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy family meal, these bites will impress everyone.

On Skewers

• Use small skewers to serve the steak bites with grilled vegetables for a fun presentation.

With Rice

• Serve over fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the delicious au jus sauce.

In Tacos

• Fill corn or flour tortillas with steak bites, fresh salsa, and avocado for a tasty taco night.

As Sliders

• Place steak bites on mini buns with your choice of toppings for easy-to-eat sliders.

Over Mashed Potatoes

• Top creamy mashed potatoes with the steak bites and sauce for a comforting meal.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh parsley or cilantro on top just before serving for added freshness and flavor.

How to Perfect Crockpot Steak Bites

To make sure your Crockpot Steak Bites turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Choose Quality Meat: Opt for high-quality sirloin steak for the best flavor and tenderness.
• Sear the Meat: Always sear the steak before adding it to the Crockpot. This enhances the flavor and texture.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onions and garlic will elevate the dish, adding depth of flavor.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Make sure to adjust cooking times based on your Crockpot model; some cook faster than others.
• Taste as You Go: Check seasoning before serving. You can always add more salt or pepper if needed.
• Let It Rest: Allow the meat to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps maintain juiciness.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Steak Bites

Crockpot Steak Bites pair well with various side dishes that enhance their rich flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread
   Perfect for mopping up the delicious au jus sauce, homemade or store-bought garlic bread is always a hit.

2. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal veggies like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers roasted to perfection complement the savory bites well.

3. Caesar Salad
   A classic salad with crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing adds freshness to your meal.

4. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw provides a crunchy contrast to the tender steak bites—great for balancing flavors.

5. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a healthy option alongside beef.

6. Baked Sweet Potatoes
   Sweet potatoes baked until soft provide natural sweetness that pairs nicely with savory steak bites.

7. Grilled Corn on the Cob
   Charred corn adds a sweet and smoky flavor that complements the richness of the dish beautifully.

8. Creamy Polenta
   Soft polenta is another comforting side that pairs wonderfully with juicy steak bites and sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Slow cooking can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the outcome of your Crockpot Steak Bites. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

• Bold seasoning: Neglecting to season your steak properly can lead to bland bites. Be sure to salt and pepper generously before searing.
• Bold overcrowding the Crockpot: Adding too much meat at once can prevent even cooking. Stick to the recommended amount for best results.
• Bold skipping the searing step: Searing adds flavor and texture. Always brown your steak before placing it in the Crockpot.
• Bold not using enough liquid: Insufficient broth or stock can cause the meat to dry out. Ensure you follow the liquid measurements closely.
• Bold ignoring cooking times: Cooking for too long or too short can alter texture. Use a timer to keep track of cooking duration.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Crockpot Steak Bites

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crockpot Steak Bites

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place bites in a baking dish with a splash of broth; cover and heat for 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on medium heat, adding a little broth. Stir occasionally until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making these delicious Crockpot Steak Bites, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use other cuts of beef for Crockpot Steak Bites?

Yes, you can use other cuts like chuck roast or flank steak, but sirloin is preferred for its tenderness.

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

Consider adding extra spices or herbs like thyme or rosemary. You could also include vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added flavor.

How long do I need to cook Crockpot Steak Bites?

Cook on HIGH for 3–4 hours or LOW for 6–8 hours, depending on your schedule and desired tenderness.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare everything and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before starting the slow cooker.

Final Thoughts

These Crockpot Steak Bites are not just easy but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for busy nights, they serve as a comforting meal that can easily be customized with your favorite vegetables or spices. Give them a try and enjoy a hearty dish that satisfies everyone at your table!