Description
This Crockpot Steak Bites recipe features tender, flavorful cubes of sirloin or ribeye steak slow-cooked to perfection with aromatic herbs and a rich, savory sauce. With minimal prep and optional searing for extra depth, this easy slow cooker dish is perfect for a comforting meal served with your favorite sides.
Ingredients
Scale
Steak and Seasoning
- 1 1/2 lbs sirloin steak or ribeye, cut into bite-sized cubes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce and Aromatics
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional for extra depth of flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Thickening and Garnish
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Steak: Cut the steak into bite-sized cubes. Pat the steak cubes dry with a paper towel and season with salt and pepper to ensure the meat maintains a good sear and develops flavor.
- Sear the Steak (Optional): For enhanced flavor, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak cubes for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. This adds a caramelized crust and deeper flavor but can be omitted to save time.
- Add Ingredients to the Crockpot: Place the seared steak cubes (or raw if skipping searing) into the crockpot. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar, rosemary, thyme, and paprika. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
- Cook in the Crockpot: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The slow cooking tenderizes the steak and melds the flavors together beautifully.
- Optional Thickening: If a thicker sauce is desired, mix the cornstarch with water to form a slurry. Stir it into the crockpot about 30 minutes before the end of cooking, allowing the sauce to thicken up nicely.
- Serve: Once the steak is tender and the sauce is thickened to your liking, serve the steak bites hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Notes
- The searing step is optional but recommended for deeper flavor.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute tamari for soy sauce.
- Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Cornstarch slurry should be added at the end to avoid breaking down during the long cook.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours low or 2-3 hours high
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
