These slow cooker steak bites are juicy and full of flavor. Just toss some tender steak pieces in a tasty sauce and let the slow cooker do all the work for you!
Honestly, they make for a perfect snack or meal! I love serving them with toothpicks for easy eating during movie nights. Who can resist a good bite-sized piece of steak? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: I love using sirloin for its balance of tenderness and flavor. Flank steak also works well. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try using chicken or turkey instead, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds depth to the flavor. If you don’t have any, soy sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar can be used instead. Both will provide a nice umami kick!
Beef Broth: It’s great for moisture and flavor. If you’re watching sodium intake, use low-sodium broth. You can also substitute vegetable broth for a lighter option.
Olive Oil: You can swap this for canola or avocado oil, especially if you want a higher smoke point for searing the steak bites.
Smoked Paprika: This is optional, but it gives a lovely smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika will do, or you can leave it out if you prefer a milder taste.
What’s the Best Way to Sear Steak Bites for Extra Flavor?
Searing the steak before cooking it in the slow cooker is key to building flavor. Here’s how you can make it work:
- Pat the steak dry so it sears properly, not steams.
- Heat your skillet on medium-high until hot.
- Add the olive oil and let it heat up, then carefully add the seasoned steak pieces.
- Sear for about 1-2 minutes on each side until browned. You might need to work in batches.
- Once done, transfer the steak to the slow cooker. This step adds an amazing depth of flavor.
If you’re short on time, it’s okay to skip this step, but don’t expect the same depth of flavor!
How to Make Slow Cooker Steak Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak Bites:
- 2 pounds steak (such as sirloin or flank steak), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for added flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious slow cooker recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep, and you’ll need 4 to 5 hours to cook on low or 2 to 3 hours on high in the slow cooker. It’s an easy way to have a satisfying meal waiting for you after a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Steak:
Start by cutting the steak into bite-sized pieces. It’s important to pat them dry with paper towels first so they are not too wet. This helps the seasonings stick better!
2. Season the Meat:
In a large bowl, season the steak pieces with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika if you want an extra kick. Toss everything together until the steak is nicely coated with the seasonings.
3. Sear the Steak (Optional):
If you like, you can sear the steak bites for extra flavor! In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned steak bites in batches. Brown them on all sides for a few minutes. If you prefer a simpler approach, you can skip this step and move directly to the slow cooker!
4. Combine in the Slow Cooker:
Carefully transfer the seared (or uncooked) steak bites into the slow cooker. Pour in the Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, and soy sauce.
5. Mix and Cover:
Give everything a good stir to ensure all the steak is well mixed with the liquids. Cover the slow cooker with its lid to keep all the heat in for cooking.
6. Cook the Steak Bites:
Set your slow cooker to cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or high for about 2 to 3 hours. The steak is done when it’s tender and fully cooked!
7. Final Touches:
Once the cooking time is up, taste the steak bites and adjust the seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley to add a nice pop of color and flavor.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these tasty steak bites as a main dish on their own or over a bed of rice, pasta, or with some crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin and flank steak work well, you can also use cuts like chuck or ribeye for a richer flavor. Just keep in mind that tougher cuts may take a bit longer to tenderize in the slow cooker.
What If I Don’t Have Worcestershire Sauce?
No worries! You can substitute Worcestershire sauce with soy sauce for a similar umami flavor. Alternatively, a mix of soy sauce and a dash of vinegar (like apple cider or red wine vinegar) can also work well.
How to Store Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of beef broth if they seem dry.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Slow Cooker?
Definitely! You can add hearty vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to the slow cooker with the steak. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them in with the sauces for extra flavor and nutrition!
