Are you ready for a dish that combines melt-in-your-mouth tenderness with bold, savory flavors? Slow Cooker Steak Bites are the answer to effortless weeknight dinners or a crowd-pleasing party appetizer. These bite-sized morsels of beef are cooked low and slow, soaking up every ounce of seasoning to deliver maximum taste with minimal effort. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is simple, satisfying, and sure to become a staple in your home.
Ingredients
For the Steak Bites:
- 2 pounds of sirloin steak or chuck roast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1/3 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
Optional Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh parsley
- A sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
1: Prep the Steak
- Begin by patting your steak bites dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps them sear beautifully.
- Season the steak generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning. Toss the pieces to coat them evenly.
2: Sear for Flavor
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the steak bites in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook each batch for about 2 minutes per side, or until you see a golden-brown crust. You’re not cooking them through at this point—just locking in that delicious flavor.
- Transfer the seared steak bites to your slow cooker.
3: Create the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Pour in the Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and beef broth. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet for extra flavor.
- Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, then pour it over the steak bites in the slow cooker.
4: Slow Cook
- Cover your slow cooker with its lid and set it to low for 6-7 hours, or high for 3-4 hours.
- The steak bites are done when they’re fork-tender and infused with all the rich flavors of the sauce.
5: Serve and Enjoy
- Transfer the steak bites to a serving dish and drizzle with the remaining sauce from the slow cooker.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or red pepper flakes for a pop of color and extra flavor.
Tips for Perfect Steak Bites
- Choose the Right Cut: Sirloin works great because it’s tender, but chuck roast is a budget-friendly option that becomes incredibly tender when slow-cooked.
- Don’t Skip the Sear: Browning the meat adds depth of flavor that makes a big difference.
- Customize the Seasoning: Adjust the spices to suit your taste—add a touch of cayenne for spice or more Worcestershire for tang.
- Layer Flavors: Deglaze the pan with the sauce ingredients to capture every bit of flavor from the skillet.
- Low and Slow: If you have time, cooking on the low setting yields the most tender and flavorful results.
Storage Instructions
Refrigeration:
- Store leftover steak bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep them moist.
Freezing:
- Freeze cooked steak bites in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned above.
Variations
- Asian-Inspired:
- Swap Italian seasoning for a teaspoon of ginger and a dash of sesame oil.
- Add green onions and a drizzle of teriyaki sauce before serving.
- Garlic Butter Steak Bites:
- Stir in a tablespoon of melted butter and minced garlic during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Tex-Mex Style:
- Replace the Italian seasoning with chili powder and cumin.
- Serve with a side of guacamole or sour cream for dipping.
- Vegetable Additions:
- Add sliced mushrooms, pearl onions, or bell peppers to the slow cooker for a hearty twist.
Nutrition Details
| Nutrient | Per Serving (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 290 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Total Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Cholesterol | 75mg |
| Sodium | 780mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 4g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sugar | 1g |
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! You can substitute the steak with pork shoulder or chicken thighs. Cooking times may vary slightly.
Can I skip searing the steak?
While you can skip it, searing adds a caramelized layer of flavor that enhances the dish. If you’re short on time, you can skip it, but it’s worth the effort!
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Just ensure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the increased volume without overcrowding.
What can I serve with steak bites?
They pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or over egg noodles for a complete meal.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, it’s not inherently spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes or cayenne for heat.