These juicy slow cooker steak bites are perfect for a cozy meal! Tender pieces of beef simmer with tasty seasonings, making them full of rich flavor.
I love how easy it is to just toss everything in the cooker and forget about it! Plus, serve them with toothpicks for a fun snack that everyone will enjoy. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Steak: Sirloin or chuck works great, but you can use any cut of steak you enjoy, like ribeye or flank. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try using chicken or tofu for a different take.
Soy Sauce: This adds umami flavor. If you’re gluten-free, opt for tamari instead. For a lighter option, you can use low-sodium soy sauce to control sodium levels.
Beef Broth: Homemade beef broth is wonderful, but store-bought works just fine! You could use vegetable broth for a lighter flavor or if you want a vegetarian twist.
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds complexity. If you don’t have it on hand, a mix of soy sauce and a splash of vinegar can be a handy substitute.
Red Pepper Flakes: If you like heat, go for it! If not, leave them out or use a dash of black pepper instead for just a hint of spice.
How Do I Ensure My Steak Bites Are Tender and Flavorful?
The slow cooker is magical for creating tender meat! Properly layering your ingredients is key. Start by mixing all the sauces and seasonings together, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Make sure each steak piece is well-coated in the sauce before cooking.
- Cook on low for the best results; the longer cooking time makes the meat more tender.
- If you’re in a hurry, cooking on high is fine too, but aim for that 3-4 hour mark for best tenderness.
- Once done, gently stir the steak bites in the sauce to ensure they’re nicely coated before serving.
Using these tips, your steak bites should come out juicy and bursting with flavor every time! Enjoy!
How to Make Slow Cooker Steak Bites?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak Bites:
- 2 lbs beef steak (sirloin or chuck), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then requires cooking in the slow cooker for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Overall, you can look forward to enjoying your tender steak bites within a day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Mix everything well using a whisk or fork, so the flavors blend nicely.
2. Combine with Steak:
Place the bite-sized pieces of steak into your slow cooker. Pour the sauce mixture over the steak, making sure each piece is well-covered. This will ensure that your steak bites soak up all the delicious flavors!
3. Add Olive Oil:
Drizzle the olive oil over the steak and sauce mixture in the slow cooker. This adds a nice richness to the dish.
4. Cook the Steak Bites:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The steak is ready when it’s tender and fully cooked through. You can check for tenderness by gently pulling on a piece with a fork.
5. Finish and Serve:
Once your steak bites are cooked, give them a gentle stir to coat them in the tasty sauce. Before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a lovely color and fresh flavor. Enjoy your steak bites over rice, mashed potatoes, or as a tasty appetizer!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin and chuck are great options, you can also use ribeye, flank steak, or even brisket for a different flavor. Just remember, tougher cuts may require longer cooking times for optimal tenderness.
What Can I Substitute for Worcestershire Sauce?
If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce on hand, you can make a quick substitute by mixing soy sauce with a splash of balsamic vinegar, a dash of hot sauce, and a bit of sugar. This will provide a similar depth of flavor to your dish!
Can I Thicken the Sauce After Cooking?
Yes! If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with an equal amount of water to create a slurry. Stir this into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking and cook uncovered to thicken the sauce to your liking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For reheating, simply warm them up in a skillet on low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to retain moisture.
