These tender steak bites cooked in a slow cooker are full of flavor and super easy to make! Just toss in your ingredients and let the magic happen while you relax.
I love how these bites are perfect for game day or any gathering. Pair them with toothpicks, and watch everyone enjoy them—just be careful, they disappear fast! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Sirloin: This cut is tender and flavorful for steak bites. If you’re looking for a substitute, flank steak or skirt steak work well too. They are also good for searing and slow cooking.
Soy Sauce: A staple in this recipe, soy sauce adds umami. If you need a low-sodium version, use that to cut back on salt. Tamari is a great gluten-free alternative.
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds depth to the flavor. If you don’t have it, a mix of soy sauce and a dash of vinegar can replicate its tangy taste.
Beef Broth: Homemade or store-bought, beef broth enhances the richness. You can use chicken broth if beef is unavailable, or vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic truly elevates the dish. If pressed for time, garlic powder or jarred minced garlic are acceptable substitutes, just adjust the quantity for potency.
How Do I Get Perfectly Browned Steak Bites?
The searing step is optional but really boosts flavor. If you choose to sear, here’s how to do it right!
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
- Add beef in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. Sear for about 5-7 minutes until browned.
- Make sure to turn the pieces for even browning. Don’t rush this step; it makes a noticeable difference!
Once browned, transfer the meat to the slow cooker and pour the sauce mixture over. The slow cooker will make the beef tender and full of flavor. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Slow Cooker Steak Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak Bites:
- 1.5 lbs beef sirloin, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for browning)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10-15 minutes for prep and browning the steak bites, followed by a slow cooking time of 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. So, while you prepare a bit, your slow cooker will do most of the work for you. Relax and let the flavors develop!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Beef:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef sirloin pieces. Sear them for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are browned on all sides. This step is optional, but it helps to create a deeper flavor in your steak bites.
2. Mix the Sauce:
While the beef is browning, grab a bowl and combine the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, minced garlic, onion powder, black pepper, smoked paprika (if using), and brown sugar. Stir everything together until well mixed. This sauce is going to add amazing flavor!
3. Combine in the Slow Cooker:
Once the beef is seared, transfer it into the slow cooker. Pour the delicious sauce mixture over the steak bites. Make sure all the beef is coated with the sauce for maximum flavor!
4. Cook to Perfection:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours, or high for 3-4 hours. The longer it cooks, the more tender the beef will be. If possible, give it a little stir every now and then to help blend the flavors evenly.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
When the cooking time is up and the steak bites are tender, they’re ready to enjoy! Serve them topped with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of color. They are perfect on their own or served over a bed of rice or noodles for a satisfying meal. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Absolutely! You can use other cuts like ribeye or chuck. Just keep in mind that tougher cuts like chuck may need a bit more time to become tender, so adjust cooking times accordingly if you decide to go that route!
Can I Skip the Searing Step?
Yes, you can skip searing the steak! While this step adds more flavor, the slow cooking method will still yield tender steak bites. Just combine everything in the slow cooker and adjust the cooking time if necessary.
Storage Tips for Leftovers
Store any leftover steak bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stove or in the microwave. You may want to add a splash of beef broth to keep the meat moist during reheating!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare everything the night before and keep the steak bites and sauce in the fridge. In the morning, just pop it into the slow cooker and let it cook while you’re busy with your day!
