These slow cooker steak bites are perfect for a cozy meal! The tender, juicy steak is mixed with tasty seasonings and cooked to perfection while you relax. Who doesn’t love a hands-off dinner?
I enjoy serving these bites with some fresh veggies or rice. It’s like having a delicious restaurant dish at home, but way easier to make. Plus, your kitchen will smell amazing! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Sirloin or Tenderloin: This recipe shines with tender cuts like sirloin or tenderloin. If you’re on a budget, flank steak or chuck roast can work, but may need longer cooking for tenderness.
Soy Sauce: If you’re avoiding soy, try tamari or coconut aminos as great alternatives. Both provide a similar umami flavor that’s perfect for this dish.
Beef Broth: Use homemade or store-bought broth for a flavor boost. If you prefer a lighter option, vegetable broth can substitute nicely, though it will change the overall flavor profile a bit.
Olive Oil: While I always prefer olive oil for its flavor, you can swap it with avocado oil or even melted butter if you’re looking for a rich taste.
Worcestershire Sauce: If you’re out of this condiment, a mixture of soy sauce with a splash of vinegar can do the trick! It’ll maintain that tangy depth in the dish.
How Can I Ensure My Steak Bites Are Tender?
To achieve perfectly tender steak bites, the key is low and slow cooking. This method allows the meat to break down over time, leading to melt-in-your-mouth beef. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Choose high-quality meat: Fresh, well-marbled cuts yield the best results.
- Avoid removing the lid: Keeping the slow cooker covered helps maintain heat and moisture.
- Cook for a full 6-8 hours: Resist the urge to rush; the longer cooking time is essential.
If you’re unsure, check the steak’s tenderness with a fork after 6 hours. It should pull apart easily! Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning before serving for the best flavor.
How to Make Slow Cooker Steak Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak Bites:
- 1.5 lbs beef sirloin or tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then you’ll let the slow cooker do the work for 6 to 8 hours. That’s a total of 6 hours and 15 minutes if you cook on the low setting. It’s perfect for a hearty meal with minimal effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
Start by grabbing a medium bowl. Combine the soy sauce, beef broth, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, onion powder, black pepper, paprika, and salt. Use a whisk or fork to mix everything together until well blended. This sauce is what makes your steak bites so tasty!
2. Add the Beef:
Now, take your beef cubes and place them into the slow cooker. Pour the prepared sauce mixture over the beef. Give it a gentle stir to ensure every piece of beef is nicely coated with that flavor-packed sauce.
3. Slow Cook the Steak Bites:
Cover your slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for about 6 to 8 hours. This slow and low cooking will make the beef super tender. So, you can go about your day while the magic happens!
4. Thicken the Sauce (Optional):
If you like a thicker sauce, here’s a quick trick! About 30 minutes before serving, mix the cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry. Stir this into the slow cooker and switch the setting to high. Let it cook for those 30 minutes to thicken the sauce just the way you like it.
5. Final Touches:
Once your steak bites are done cooking, it’s time for a taste test! Check the seasoning and adjust with more salt or pepper if needed. Don’t forget to garnish with freshly chopped parsley for that lovely color and freshness.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious steak bites warm, either on their own or alongside some fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin or tenderloin are great choices for tenderness, you can also use cuts like chuck roast or flank steak. Just keep in mind that tougher cuts may require a longer cooking time to become tender, so be patient!
What Can I Substitute for Soy Sauce?
If you’re looking for a soy sauce alternative, you can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter taste. Both will provide a similar umami flavor, so feel free to adjust the amounts based on your taste preferences.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover steak bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until heated through. If the sauce thickens upon cooling, you can add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Definitely! If you like a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. You can adjust to your spice preference, but start with a small amount and taste as you go!
