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This slow cooker garlic butter steak bites recipe is the perfect easy meal when you want tender juicy steak pieces bursting with rich garlic butter flavor. It’s a fix-it-and-forget-it dish that comes out so flavorful and comforting, ideal for pairing with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles to soak up the delicious gravy.
I first made this on a chilly weekend and my family couldn’t stop eating it. Now it’s a go-to when I want something easy but impressive.
Ingredients
- Sirloin steak: cut into bite-sized pieces for tender juicy bites. Look for well-marbled meat for best flavor and tenderness
- Kosher salt: for seasoning that enhances the natural steak flavor
- Black pepper: freshly ground adds subtle heat and depth
- Vegetable oil: to sear the steak and build flavor layers
- Sweet onion: thinly sliced for a mild sweetness that balances the garlic
- Garlic: thinly sliced to infuse the butter sauce with aromatic richness
- Unsalted beef stock: adds a savory base for the gravy without overpowering
- Au jus gravy mix: provides a rich beefy flavor that deepens the sauce
- Unsalted butter: thinly sliced to melt into the sauce and create a luscious finish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sear the Steak Bites:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add vegetable oil. Once hot, brown the steak pieces in batches. You are not cooking through but adding a nice golden crust to lock in flavor and create depth. Add more oil if needed between batches.
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker:
- Transfer all seared steak bites to your slow cooker. Add the thinly sliced sweet onion and garlic. Gently stir to combine everything evenly.
- Add Stock, Gravy Mix, and Butter:
- Pour in the beef stock carefully over the steak and onions. Sprinkle the au jus gravy mix evenly across the top. Lay the thin slices of butter over the mixture to slowly melt and enrich the sauce.
- Slow Cook Until Tender:
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours or on low for 6 to 8 hours. Stir the mixture gently once every hour if possible to keep flavors balanced. Cooking low and slow will produce the most tender bites.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Once cooked, serve the steak bites over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles to enjoy the full gravy experience. Optionally garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and brightness.
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Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove or in a slow cooker to avoid drying out the steak.
Ingredient Substitutions
Flat iron steak or chuck roast can be used as more affordable alternatives to sirloin. Just adjust cooking time accordingly for tenderness. You can swap the au jus mix for beef bouillon powder mixed with a little Worcestershire sauce for a homemade gravy base.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the garlic butter gravy. It also works well served over buttered egg noodles or steamed rice. Add a side of green vegetables like sautéed green beans or roasted asparagus for a balanced meal.
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Recipe FAQs
- → What steak cut works best?
Sirloin is ideal for tenderness and flavor when slow cooked, but stew meat, chuck roast, flat iron, or round steak can also be used.
- → Is searing the steak necessary?
Searing adds great color and flavor but can be skipped if you prefer a simpler prep.
- → What sides pair well with these steak bites?
Mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles complement the rich garlic butter gravy perfectly.
- → Can I add herbs or spices?
Thyme or rosemary sprigs work well to enhance the savory flavor.
- → How long should I cook the steak bites?
Cook on low for 6-8 hours for maximum tenderness or high for 3-4 hours for quicker results.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on stove, microwave, or slow cooker.