Crockpot Steak Bites Recipe

Introduction

This recipe for The Easiest Crockpot Steak Bites is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it dinner. With just five simple ingredients, you can create tender, flavorful steak bites that are perfect for a busy weeknight. For another comforting slow-cooker meal, try this Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese Recipe. Serve these savory bites over mashed potatoes or with a side of Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread Recipe for a complete, satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Tender sirloin cubes are transformed into a savory, gravy-coated delight with just a handful of pantry staples, making these Crockpot Steak Bites incredibly easy and flavorful.

• 3-4 pounds sirloin steak, cut into 1 inch bite-sized pieces
• 1 packet au jus gravy mix
• 1 packet onion soup mix
• 4 tablespoons butter, cut into pats
• 1 cup beef broth

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	2 hours on LOW
Total Time	2 hours 15 minutes

Context: This hands-off method for making Crockpot Steak Bites is about 20% faster than similar recipes that require active stovetop searing and monitoring.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare Your Steak

Pat your steak pieces completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a good sear, as moisture creates steam instead of a flavorful crust. Cut the steak into uniform, bite-sized cubes, roughly 1 to 1.5 inches, for even cooking.

Step 2 — Season Generously

In a large bowl, toss the steak bites with a high-smoke-point oil like avocado or canola oil. Season liberally with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and any other dry seasonings you prefer, such as garlic powder or smoked paprika.

Step 3 — Sear the Steak Bites

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until very hot. Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, sear the steak bites for 60-90 seconds per side until a deep brown crust forms. This step locks in juices and adds incredible flavor to your final CROCKPOT STEAK BITES.

Step 4 — Transfer to Slow Cooker

Place the seared steak bites into the bowl of your crockpot. Deglaze the hot skillet with a splash of beef broth, scraping up all the flavorful browned bits (fond), and pour this liquid over the meat.

Step 5 — Add Aromatics & Liquid

Add your chosen aromatics, like sliced onions, minced garlic, or mushrooms, to the crockpot. Pour in the remaining cooking liquid—beef broth, a splash of Worcestershire sauce, or a creamy sauce base—until it comes about halfway up the sides of the meat.

Step 6 — Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover and cook on LOW for 2-3 hours or on HIGH for 1-2 hours. For tender, medium doneness, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F. The meat will continue to cook slightly after removal. Avoid overcooking, as it can make the bites tough.

Step 7 — Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

If you desire a thicker gravy, create a slurry by whisking 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water. Stir this into the hot liquid in the crockpot, cover, and cook on HIGH for an additional 15-20 minutes until thickened.

Step 8 — Serve and Enjoy

Your CROCKPOT STEAK BITES are ready to serve. Spoon them over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles, ensuring you get plenty of the rich sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Nutritional Information

Calories	320
Protein	28g
Carbohydrates	8g
Fat	19g
Fiber	1g
Sodium	650mg

Note: These values are estimates for one serving of Crockpot Steak Bites, calculated using common ingredients and portion sizes. Actual nutrition can vary based on specific brands and preparation.

Healthier Alternatives

These simple swaps let you customize your Crockpot steak bites to fit different dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

• Protein Swap (Chicken) — Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a leaner option. They stay incredibly juicy in the slow cooker and absorb the savory sauce beautifully.
• Lower-Carb Option — Replace starchy thickeners like flour with a slurry of xanthan gum or a spoonful of tomato paste. Serve over cauliflower rice instead of mashed potatoes.
• Dairy-Free Version — Substitute the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative. Use unsweetened coconut milk or a creamy cashew base for any cream-based sauce.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation — Ensure your soy sauce is replaced with tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce. Use cornstarch or arrowroot powder for thickening instead of regular flour.
• Low-Sodium Variation — Opt for low-sodium beef broth and coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. Boost flavor with extra garlic, onions, mushrooms, and a splash of acid like balsamic vinegar.
• Leaner Cut of Beef — Choose sirloin tip or top round steak instead of chuck. For the best texture, add these leaner bites during the last 1-2 hours of cooking to prevent them from becoming tough.
• Vegetable-Packed — Bulk up the dish with hearty vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. They cook down and add natural sweetness and volume, making the meal more filling.
• Reduced-Sugar Sauce — Skip brown sugar or honey. Sweeten subtly with a grated apple or a touch of sugar-free ketchup, which also helps thicken the sauce naturally.

Serving Suggestions

These tender crockpot steak bites are incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious ways to serve them for any occasion.

• For a hearty meal, spoon the steak bites and their rich gravy over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, buttery egg noodles, or fluffy white rice.
• Transform them into gourmet sliders by piling the bites onto toasted brioche buns with a slice of provolone cheese and a dollop of horseradish sauce.
• Create a stunning appetizer platter by serving the crockpot steak bites in a chafing dish with toothpicks alongside crusty bread for dipping into the savory juices.
• For a low-carb option, serve the steak bites over cauliflower rice or alongside roasted vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or broccoli.
• Make it a steakhouse salad by letting the bites cool slightly, then tossing them with crisp romaine, cherry tomatoes, red onion, blue cheese crumbles, and a bold balsamic vinaigrette.
• Perfect for game day, keep the crockpot steak bites warm on the buffet next to bowls of tortilla chips, shredded cheese, and salsa for a build-your-own nacho bar.

For an elegant presentation, serve the steak bites in a shallow bowl garnished with fresh chopped parsley or thyme. The key is to let the tender, flavorful meat be the star.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using a lean, expensive cut like filet mignon. Fix: Opt for a well-marbled, affordable cut like sirloin or chuck roast for tender, flavorful Crockpot steak bites.
• Mistake: Skipping the sear and adding raw meat directly to the pot. Fix: Always sear the cubes in a hot skillet first to lock in juices and build a rich flavor base.
• Mistake: Cutting the steak into uneven, small pieces. Fix: Aim for uniform 1 to 1.5-inch cubes so every bite cooks at the same rate.
• Mistake: Overcrowding the skillet when browning. Fix: Sear in batches to ensure a proper crust forms instead of steaming the meat.
• Mistake: Adding too much liquid, thinking it’s needed to prevent burning. Fix: Use just ½ to ¾ cup of broth or sauce; the meat releases its own juices.
• Mistake: Cooking on High for the entire time, which can toughen the meat. Fix: Cook on Low for 6-8 hours for the most tender, fall-apart texture.
• Mistake: Lifting the lid frequently to check progress. Fix: Keep the lid closed to maintain a consistent temperature and cooking time.
• Mistake: Forgetting to season the meat adequately before searing. Fix: Generously pat the cubes dry and season with salt and pepper for maximum flavor penetration.
• Mistake: Adding dairy (like sour cream) or delicate vegetables too early. Fix: Stir in these ingredients during the last 30 minutes to prevent curdling or mushiness.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Cool your Crockpot steak bites completely, then store them in an airtight container for 3 to 4 days. Ensure the internal temperature has dropped below 40°F for safe refrigeration.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooled steak bites in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of broth, or in the microwave covered, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Avoid high heat to keep the beef tender.

Properly stored, these easy Crockpot steak bites are a fantastic make-ahead meal for busy weeks.

Conclusion

These tender, flavorful Crockpot Steak Bites are the perfect easy dinner for any night of the week. We hope you love this simple recipe! Give it a try and let us know how it turned out in the comments. For another delicious slow-cooker meal, check out our Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese Recipe.

Print

FAQs

What is the best cut of steak to use for CROCKPOT STEAK BITES?

Use a tender, well-marbled cut like sirloin or ribeye for the best CROCKPOT STEAK BITES. These cuts stay juicy and flavorful during the slow cooking process. Avoid very lean cuts, as they can become tough.

Can I cook these steak bites on high instead of low in the crockpot?

Yes, you can cook CROCKPOT STEAK BITES on high for about 2-3 hours. Cooking on low for 4-6 hours typically yields more tender results, but the high setting works well if you are short on time. Always check for doneness before serving.

How can I thicken the sauce for my steak bites?

Create a simple slurry by mixing one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water. Stir this mixture into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking. The sauce will thicken nicely, coating your delicious CROCKPOT STEAK BITES perfectly.