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This crockpot steak bites recipe transforms ordinary beef into melt-in-your-mouth morsels that will have everyone asking for seconds. The slow cooking process infuses the meat with rich flavors while ensuring perfectly tender results every time. I've relied on this dish countless times when I need something impressive yet effortless.
I first created these steak bites when hosting an impromptu dinner party with limited preparation time. The incredible aroma filled my home as guests arrived, and the compliments haven't stopped since. Now it's my secret weapon for stress-free entertaining.
Ingredients
- Sirloin steak cubes: create the perfect texture for slow cooking while remaining tender
- Low sodium soy sauce: provides the umami foundation without making the dish too salty
- Beef broth: enhances the meaty flavor and creates a luxurious sauce
- Worcestershire sauce: adds depth and complexity that elevates the entire dish
- Minced garlic cloves: infuse essential aromatic notes throughout the cooking process
- Onion powder: delivers concentrated flavor without the texture of fresh onions
- Smoked paprika: contributes a subtle smoky dimension that complements the beef perfectly
- Black pepper: adds necessary warmth and slight spice to balance the flavors
- Butter: stirred in at the end creates a silky finish that makes the sauce irresistible
- Fresh parsley: brightens the rich dish with color and fresh herbaceous notes
How To Make Crockpot Steak Bites
- Prepare the meat:
- Trim excess fat from the sirloin and cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking. Pat the meat dry with paper towels to ensure proper browning later. This step is crucial for texture development.
- Create the marinade:
- Whisk together soy sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper in the crockpot insert. Ensure everything is thoroughly combined to distribute the flavors evenly.
- Add the steak:
- Place the cubed steak into the crockpot and gently toss to coat each piece with the marinade. Make sure all pieces are submerged as much as possible for maximum flavor penetration.
- Slow cook to perfection:
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours until the meat is fork tender but not falling apart. The slow cooking process allows the connective tissues to break down properly.
- Finish with butter:
- About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the butter pieces until completely melted. This creates a velvety texture in the sauce and adds richness to the finished dish.
- Garnish and serve:
- Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley just before serving to add color and a fresh flavor contrast to the rich, savory meat.
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My absolute favorite way to enjoy these steak bites is served over creamy mashed potatoes with the sauce spooned generously over top. My husband proposed the day after I first made this dish for him. Coincidence? I think not!
Perfect Meat Selection
Choosing the right cut of beef makes all the difference in this recipe. While sirloin offers the ideal balance of tenderness and flavor, you can experiment with chuck roast for a more economical option though it will require longer cooking. Ribeye creates an incredibly luxurious version for special occasions. Regardless of which cut you choose, look for meat with good marbling as this fat will melt during cooking, creating self-basting magic that ensures juicy results.
Storage and Reheating
These steak bites store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually continue developing, making day-two leftovers sometimes even better than the original meal. To reheat, place in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to revitalize the sauce. Avoid microwave reheating if possible as it can toughen the meat. For longer storage, freeze portions in heavy duty freezer bags for up to 3 months.
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Serving Suggestions
These versatile steak bites shine when served over starchy bases that soak up the incredible sauce. Creamy mashed potatoes provide the classic comfort food pairing, while buttered egg noodles offer a simpler alternative. For a lower carb option, try cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles. The meat also works beautifully as a filling for soft tacos with quick pickled onions and cilantro, or tucked into warm hoagie rolls for incredible sandwiches. For a dinner party presentation, serve in small ramekins with toasted baguette slices for dipping.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I ensure the steak bites stay tender?
To keep steak bites tender, use sirloin steak and cook it on the low setting in your crockpot for the recommended time.
- → Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, you can use other cuts like chuck or round steak, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary due to tenderness differences.
- → What can I serve with steak bites?
Serve steak bites with mashed potatoes, rice, roasted vegetables, or even a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- → Can this be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the steak cubes overnight and cook them the next day for more intense flavors.
- → Can I thicken the sauce for serving?
To thicken the sauce, you can mix a small amount of cornstarch with water and stir it into the crockpot juices during the last 10 minutes of cooking.