These Crockpot Garlic Butter Steak Bites are tender pieces of beef cooked to perfection with a rich garlic butter sauce. It’s super easy and delicious!
You’ll love how simple it is to make; just throw the ingredients in the crockpot and let it do the hard work. Perfect for busy days when you want a tasty meal without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Sirloin or Tenderloin: These cuts are great for tenderness. If you’re looking for something budget-friendly, chuck roast can work too—just slice it smaller and cook a bit longer.
Unsalted Butter: This gives a rich flavor. You can substitute with olive oil for a healthier option, but you’ll miss that creamy taste. If you want something different, try ghee or even plant-based butter.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a punch, but if you don’t have any, garlic powder (about 1 teaspoon) can work in a pinch. Just remember to adjust the quantity since dried garlic is stronger!
Smoked Paprika: This adds a smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or cayenne pepper can be a substitute, depending on your spice preference. Or simply omit it if you prefer a milder taste.
How Do I Ensure My Steak Bites are Perfectly Tender?
One of the biggest concerns is achieving tender steak bites. First, patting the steak cubes dry is key; it helps when searing them for a nice crust. Searing locks in juices and adds flavor even before the slow cooking.
- Heat olive oil until shimmering before adding the steak.
- Sear in small batches to avoid overcrowding; this keeps the heat up.
- Cook them just until browned – they’ll finish cooking in the crockpot.
- Follow the recommended slow cooking time; overcooking can make them tough.
Enjoy these tips and happy cooking! Your steak bites will turn out restaurant-quality!
Crockpot Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds beef sirloin or tenderloin, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley or 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish requires about 10-15 minutes for preparation, with a cooking time of 3-4 hours in the crockpot. The wait is worth it for tender, flavorful steak bites!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Beef:
Start by patting the beef cubes dry with paper towels. This helps to get a nice sear when cooking. It’s important to remove any excess moisture to ensure a delightful crust on the meat.
2. Searing the Steak Bites:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil. Add the beef cubes in batches (do not overcrowd the pan). Sear them for about 2-3 minutes until they are browned on all sides but not fully cooked. Once browned, remove the steak bites and set them aside.
3. Adding to the Crockpot:
Place the seared steak bites into your crockpot. This will allow the meat to cook slowly and soak up all the delicious flavors from the sauce.
4. Making the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika (if using), Worcestershire sauce, and parsley. Mix well and let it cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Combining Everything:
Pour the garlic butter mixture over the steak bites in the crockpot. Toss gently to ensure all the meat is coated evenly with the garlic butter sauce.
6. Cooking the Steak Bites:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 3-4 hours. The steak bites should become tender and soak in all the wonderful flavors. Be sure not to overcook them to keep them juicy!
7. Finishing Touches:
Before serving, give the steak bites a quick stir to ensure they are nicely coated with the sauce. Serve warm, garnished with additional fresh parsley if you like. These savory steak bites pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables for a fulfilling meal.
Enjoy your flavorful Crockpot Garlic Butter Steak Bites!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef?
Absolutely! While sirloin and tenderloin are great choices for tenderness, you can also use cuts like flank steak or chuck roast. Just keep in mind that chuck roast may require a longer cooking time to become tender.
Can I Prep This Dish the Night Before?
Yes! You can prepare the steak bites and the garlic butter mixture the night before. Simply store each component separately in the fridge. In the morning, combine them in the crockpot and set it to cook while you’re at work!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to keep them moist.
Is This Recipe Freezer-Friendly?
Yes, you can freeze these steak bites after they’ve cooled. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.