Slow Cooker Garlic Steak Bites

This hearty slow cooker garlic butter steak bites recipe has been my family's go-to dinner solution for busy weeknights. The steak becomes incredibly tender and absorbs all the rich garlic butter flavor while you go about your day.

I first made these steak bites during a particularly hectic week when I needed something impressive but hands off. My husband now requests them monthly, claiming they're better than any steakhouse meal.

Ingredients

• Sirloin steak: Choose well marbled pieces for the best flavor and tenderness
• Kosher salt: The coarse texture adheres better to meat than table salt
• Black pepper: Freshly ground provides the most aromatic flavor
• Vegetable oil: Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point for proper searing
• Sweet onion: The natural sugars caramelize beautifully in the slow cooker
• Garlic: Fresh cloves deliver more depth than pre minced options
• Unsalted beef stock: Allows you to control the overall saltiness
• Au jus gravy mix: Adds concentrated beef flavor and helps thicken the sauce
• Unsalted butter: Opt for European style butter for extra richness if available

How To Make Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Season the steak:

Place bite sized steak pieces in a large bowl then add salt and pepper. Toss thoroughly to ensure even coverage. Good seasoning at this stage builds the foundation of flavor.

Sear the meat:

Heat oil in a large skillet until very hot. Working in small batches sear the steak pieces quickly on all sides until browned but not cooked through. Avoid overcrowding which causes steaming instead of searing. This step creates beautiful caramelization that enhances the final flavor dramatically.

Prepare the slow cooker:

Transfer seared steak pieces to your slow cooker then add the thinly sliced onion and garlic. Gently mix to distribute the aromatics evenly throughout the meat.

Add the liquid components:

Pour beef stock over the meat mixture then sprinkle the au jus mix evenly across the top. This combination creates a savory base that will become your sauce. Finally place the butter slices on top where they will slowly melt and infuse everything with richness.

Slow cook to perfection:

Cover and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours or low for 6 to 8 hours. If possible stir once per hour to ensure even flavor distribution. The meat will become increasingly tender as it cooks.

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My absolute favorite part of this dish is how the butter slowly incorporates into the beef broth creating a velvety sauce that coats each piece of meat. I remember serving this at my daughter's birthday dinner and even my picky nephew went back for seconds which is practically a culinary miracle in our family.

Choosing the Right Cut of Beef

While sirloin steak is specified in the recipe it isn't your only option. Chuck roast works beautifully when cut into bite sized pieces and costs significantly less. The slow cooking method will tenderize tougher cuts effectively. For a splurge ribeye or New York strip create exceptionally rich results. Whatever cut you choose look for good marbling throughout the meat as those fat pockets will melt during cooking creating self basting juicy bites.

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

These garlic butter steak bites actually taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop overnight. You can refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage freeze portions in freezer safe containers for up to 2 months. When reheating add a splash of beef broth to maintain moisture and warm gently on the stovetop or microwave. The butter may separate slightly when reheating but a quick stir will recombine the sauce.

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Serving Suggestions

These versatile steak bites shine when served over a starch that can soak up the incredible garlic butter sauce. Creamy mashed potatoes make an ideal base creating the ultimate comfort food experience. For something lighter try cauliflower mash or steamed rice. Egg noodles tossed with a bit of the sauce then topped with the steak create a stroganoff like dish everyone will love. For a complete meal add a simple green vegetable like roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli on the side.

Customization Options

The basic recipe creates a delicious classic flavor but feel free to customize based on your preferences. For an herb infused variation add fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs during cooking. Remove the stems before serving. Wine lovers can substitute half the beef stock with dry red wine for depth. Mushroom enthusiasts should add sliced cremini or baby bella mushrooms during the last hour of cooking. For a touch of heat incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different cut of steak?

Yes, you can use cuts like ribeye, tenderloin, or chuck roast if sirloin is unavailable. Just ensure they are cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover steak bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare the steak bites up to the point of slow cooking and refrigerate everything overnight. Start the slow cooker the next day for a fresh meal.

→ What can I serve with these steak bites?

These steak bites are excellent over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice. Add a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

→ Can I make this without a slow cooker?

If you don't have a slow cooker, you can replicate the recipe in a Dutch oven. Use low heat on the stovetop or place it in a low-temperature oven for similar results.