The Ultimate Easy Crockpot Steak Bites: Tender Beef Smothered in Rich Au Jus Gravy
Prepare to fall in love with these incredible crockpot steak bites! Imagine perfectly seasoned, melt-in-your-mouth tender steak, slow-cooked to perfection with aromatic garlic, sweet onions, and a rich, savory au jus gravy. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that’s so straightforward, it’s ideal for any day of the week, transforming steak from a special occasion luxury into an everyday delight. Get ready for a dish that promises maximum flavor with minimal effort, making it an instant family favorite!
If you’re a fan of simple yet sensational slow cooker beef recipes, be sure to explore more of our culinary creations. You’ll adore these incredible Crockpot Salisbury Steaks, known for their classic comfort. For a smoky and tender option, try this delicious crockpot brisket with BBQ sauce. And for a hearty, warming dish, our easy Crockpot Chili Recipe is always a winner. Each recipe is designed for ease and flavor, just like these amazing steak bites!
Steak often carries the reputation of being a dish reserved for special occasions or requiring complicated cooking techniques. This recipe shatters that notion entirely! Not only is it incredibly simple to prepare, but its charm truly lies in the bite-sized pieces of steak. This thoughtful preparation makes the dish incredibly kid-friendly and universally appealing, ensuring even the pickiest eaters will happily devour their portion.
Imagine your entire family gathered around, eagerly enjoying fork-tender, juicy steak bites, each piece generously coated in that luscious au jus gravy. This dish is designed for ultimate convenience; simply serve it over fluffy mashed potatoes or a bed of warm egg noodles, and you’ve got a complete, comforting dinner. The slow cooker handles the vast majority of the work, allowing you to focus on other tasks or simply relax. It truly embodies the definition of an effortless, satisfying weeknight meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!
For those times when you need steak bites on the table in under 30 minutes, you absolutely must try my stovetop garlic butter steak bites recipe. It’s a lightning-fast alternative that delivers fantastic flavor. Alternatively, if your palate craves a delightful blend of sweet and savory, prepare to be amazed by my Honey Bourbon Steak Tips. These are slow-cooked in an incredibly rich honey bourbon glaze, bursting with complex and irresistible flavors.
And here’s another fantastic perk: these crockpot steak bites are incredibly freezer-friendly! This makes them a perfect candidate for meal prepping. You can easily prepare a large batch, portion it out, and stash it in your freezer. On a busy day, simply thaw it overnight, gently reheat, and serve. It’s a wonderful way to ensure you always have a delicious, home-cooked meal ready to go, saving you time and stress on those hectic evenings.
My love for easy slow cooker meals runs deep, and if you share that passion, you’re in for a treat! You absolutely must give my Crockpot Chili Mac and Crockpot Frito Pie a try. Both are fantastic, family-friendly options that consistently receive rave reviews. The Crockpot Frito Pie, in particular, is an absolute hit with kids, promising a fun and flavorful dinner that they’ll go crazy for!
Now, let’s dive into the details and get these mouthwatering crockpot steak bites cooking!
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Crockpot Steak Bites
This section provides detailed notes on each ingredient, including substitution options and tips for best results. You’ll find all precise measurements, ingredients, and step-by-step instructions in the comprehensive, printable recipe card located at the very end of this post.
- Sirloin Steak: This cut is ideal for its balance of tenderness and flavor. For optimal results, cut the steak into approximately 1-inch bite-sized cubes before you begin cooking. Don’t worry if you don’t have sirloin readily available; other excellent choices include round steak, beef stew meat (which often comes pre-cut!), or even chuck roast, all of which will yield deliciously tender results in the slow cooker.
- Kosher Salt: Kosher salt has a larger grain size compared to standard table salt, which allows it to adhere better to the meat and distribute flavor more evenly. Beyond seasoning, it also plays a role in tenderizing the meat during the long cooking process. If you’re substituting with regular table salt, remember to use half the amount, as it is much finer and saltier by volume.
- Black Pepper: For the most vibrant and pungent flavor, we highly recommend using freshly cracked black pepper. The difference in aroma and taste compared to pre-ground pepper is noticeable and truly elevates the dish.
- Vegetable Oil: This is crucial for achieving a beautiful sear on your steak bites before they go into the slow cooker. Searing helps to lock in juices and build a rich depth of flavor. If you prefer, high-smoke point oils like olive oil or avocado oil can be used as alternatives to vegetable oil.
- Onion: A small sweet onion, thinly sliced, will soften beautifully in the slow cooker, imparting a gentle sweetness and savory depth to the au jus gravy. The thin slices ensure they meld seamlessly into the sauce.
- Garlic: Instead of finely mincing the garlic, opt for thinly slicing the cloves. This allows the garlic to slowly release its flavor throughout the cooking process without becoming overpowering, resulting in a more nuanced garlic essence.
- Beef Stock: To maintain control over the overall saltiness of your dish, it’s best to use unsalted beef stock. This allows the kosher salt and au jus mix to provide the primary seasoning. If unsalted beef broth is all you have, it can be substituted without issues.
- Au Jus Gravy Mix: This convenient mix is your secret weapon for creating that incredibly rich and savory gravy! You’ll typically find it in the condiment or spice aisle of your grocery store. It’s designed to create a fantastic, flavorful sauce that perfectly complements the beef.
- Butter: Just like with the beef stock, using unsalted butter is recommended. This gives you precise control over the salt content in the entire recipe, especially since we’re adding salt separately. The butter adds richness and a silky texture to the gravy.
- Parsley: Fresh chopped parsley serves as a vibrant, optional garnish. While it doesn’t significantly alter the flavor profile, its bright green color adds a lovely touch of freshness and makes for a more appealing presentation.
Essential Equipment You’ll Need
Before you embark on crafting these tender crockpot steak bites, it’s always a good idea to gather all your necessary tools and ingredients. Having everything ready ensures a smooth and enjoyable cooking process. Here’s a detailed list of the equipment you’ll need for this delicious and easy recipe:
- 6-quart to 8-quart crockpot: The star of this recipe! A slow cooker of this size is perfect for accommodating the quantity of steak and sauce, ensuring even cooking and tender results. If you have a larger family or love leftovers, an 8-quart pot gives you more space.
- Measuring spoons: Essential for accurately measuring your spices and other smaller ingredients to ensure consistent flavor every time.
- Measuring cups: Used for precise liquid measurements, such as beef stock, which is key to a perfectly balanced au jus.
- Sharp knife for cutting up the meat: A good quality, sharp knife is crucial for safely and efficiently cutting your sirloin steak into uniform, bite-sized pieces. Uniformity helps with even cooking.
- Large mixing bowl: You’ll need this to season your steak cubes thoroughly with salt and pepper before searing.
- Large skillet: This is vital for searing the steak bites. A cast iron skillet or any heavy-bottomed skillet that retains heat well is ideal for achieving that desirable golden-brown crust.
- Tongs: Tongs are incredibly useful for safely transferring the hot beef cubes from the skillet to the slow cooker and for tossing ingredients within the slow cooker.
How to Make Tender Steak Bites in the Crockpot with Au Jus Sauce
This comprehensive section walks you through each step of the recipe with clear, easy-to-follow instructions, complemented by helpful photos. For the complete printable recipe, including all precise measurements and nutritional information, please refer to the dedicated recipe card found below.
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Steak
Begin by taking your sirloin steak and carefully cutting it into uniform bite-sized pieces, aiming for roughly 1-inch cubes. Transfer these cubed steak pieces into a large mixing bowl. Generously sprinkle them with the kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Toss the steak well to ensure every piece is evenly coated with the seasoning. This initial step is vital for building the foundational flavor of your steak bites.
Step 2: Sear for Enhanced Flavor
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add half of the vegetable oil to the hot pan. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the seasoned steak bites to the skillet. It’s crucial to sear the steak in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding will steam the meat instead of searing it, preventing a good crust from forming. Sear each batch until beautifully browned on all sides, then use tongs to transfer the seared steak bites directly to the bottom of your slow cooker. If needed, add the remaining oil or a little more to the pan for subsequent batches to ensure a consistent sear.
Step 3: Add Aromatics
Once all the steak has been expertly seared and transferred to the crockpot, it’s time to incorporate your aromatics. Add the thinly sliced onion and garlic directly into the slow cooker with the steak bites. Use your tongs to gently toss them together, ensuring they are well distributed among the meat. As they slow cook, these ingredients will infuse the entire dish with a wonderful depth of flavor.
Step 4: Build the Au Jus Base
Pour the unsalted beef stock evenly over the steak pieces, onions, and garlic in the crockpot. Next, open the au jus gravy mix packet and sprinkle its contents directly over the top of everything. Finally, arrange the thinly sliced unsalted butter over the au jus mix. As the butter melts, it will contribute a luxurious richness to the gravy, further enhancing its flavor and texture.
Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection
Securely place the lid on your slow cooker. Set your appliance to cook on high for a duration of 3-4 hours, or if you have more time, opt for the low setting and cook for 6-8 hours. The longer, slower cook time on low often results in even more tender meat. If your schedule allows, try to stir the steak bites approximately every 30 minutes to ensure even cooking and distribution of flavors. Once cooked, the steak should be incredibly tender and easily pierced with a fork. Serve these delightful steak bites warm, optionally garnished with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Serving Suggestions for Your Crockpot Steak Bites
These incredibly tender crockpot steak bites, with their rich and flavorful au jus gravy, are wonderfully versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of classic side dishes. The luscious gravy is truly the star here, making it an excellent companion for anything that can soak up its deliciousness!
For the ultimate comfort food experience, serve these steak bites alongside your favorite creamy mashed potatoes. The potatoes act as a perfect sponge for the savory gravy. Alternatively, a generous bed of buttery egg noodles is another fantastic choice, offering a satisfying texture that complements the tender beef. Both options transform this dish into a hearty and complete meal.
Looking for more inspired side dish options to round out your meal? Consider whipping up my incredibly cheesy Stovetop Mac and Cheese for a truly indulgent pairing. If you’re craving something tangy and hearty, our Old-Fashioned Potato Salad offers a delightful contrast. For a fresh and crunchy element, try the vibrant Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheddar. Classic green beans or a crisp, simple side salad also provide a refreshing balance to the richness of the steak and gravy, making for a well-rounded and satisfying dinner.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
One of the best qualities of these crockpot steak bites is how well they store, making them an excellent choice for meal prep or enjoying delicious leftovers!
Refrigerator: To store any leftover steak bites, simply transfer them to an airtight container. They will maintain their delicious flavor and texture in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure they are completely cooled before refrigerating to prevent condensation.
Freezer: These cooked steak bites are also wonderfully freezer-friendly. For longer storage, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can be safely frozen for up to 3 months. This is perfect for having a quick, gourmet-like meal on hand whenever you need it!
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, there are several convenient reheating options. You can gently reheat these easy crockpot beef tips in the slow cooker itself (on a low setting), in a pan on the stove over medium-low heat, or quickly in the microwave. For optimal results and to preserve the tender texture of the meat, I highly recommend reheating on the stove. Reheating meat in the microwave can sometimes lead to a slightly rubbery texture, which we want to avoid with these succulent bites. Stir occasionally until warmed through, adding a splash of beef broth if the gravy seems too thick.
Crockpot Steak Bites Recipe Tips and Tricks for Success
- Milder Onion and Garlic Flavor: If you prefer a more subtle taste of onion and garlic, or if you want to ensure they are extra tender and caramelized, consider sautéing them briefly in the same skillet after searing the steak, before adding them to the slow cooker. This step gently mellows their flavors.
- The Power of Searing: While technically optional, searing the steak before adding it to the crockpot is a highly recommended step that makes a significant difference. This quick browning creates a delicious crust through the Maillard reaction, locking in the natural juices and developing a much bolder, richer, and more complex flavor profile for your beef. Don’t skip it if you have the time!
- Avoid Overcrowding the Skillet: When searing your steak bites, it’s crucial not to overcrowd the skillet. If too many pieces are in the pan at once, the temperature will drop, and the meat will steam instead of getting a proper sear. Work in batches to ensure each piece gets beautifully browned on all sides, contributing to that incredible depth of flavor.
- Thickening the Gravy: If you desire a thicker, richer gravy for your steak bites, it’s simple to achieve. Towards the end of the cooking process (about 30 minutes before it’s done), prepare a cornstarch slurry. This involves mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Stir this slurry into the crockpot, and continue cooking until the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency.
Exciting Additions and Flavor Variations
These crockpot steak bites are fantastic as is, but they also serve as a wonderful base for creative culinary exploration. Don’t hesitate to experiment with these additions and variations to tailor the dish to your personal taste or dietary needs:
- Infuse with More Herbs: Elevate the aromatic complexity of this slow cooker beef tips recipe by adding a few fresh sprigs of hardy herbs. Thyme or rosemary, either alone or combined, will slowly release their fragrant oils, deeply infusing the beef and gravy with their earthy, peppery notes.
- Brighten Before Serving: To really make the flavors pop and add a fresh dimension right before serving, consider stirring in a heaping tablespoon of vibrant pesto for an herbaceous kick, or a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice. The acidity from the lemon will cut through the richness, brightening the entire dish.
- Add Savory Mushrooms: For an added layer of earthy flavor and satisfying texture, stir in some quickly seared mushrooms a few minutes before serving. Sautéing them separately ensures they retain their texture rather than becoming soggy. This is also an inexpensive and delicious way to extend the meal and make it even heartier!
- Make it Keto-Friendly: To adapt this recipe for a keto lifestyle, simply omit the au jus gravy mix (which often contains starches and sugars). Instead, rely on the other flavor-boosting options mentioned above: incorporate additional fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary, add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness, or stir in plenty of savory seared mushrooms for depth and substance.
- Embrace the “Dump and Go” Method: For the ultimate in convenience, especially on those incredibly busy days, feel free to skip the searing step entirely. While searing enhances flavor, a “dump and go” approach still yields delicious, tender results. Simply combine all your ingredients in the crockpot, set it, and forget about it until a fantastic dinner is ready!
- Cook with Potatoes for a Complete Meal: Why cook sides separately when you can do it all in one pot? Quarter some potatoes (Yukon Golds or red potatoes work wonderfully) and add them directly to the slow cooker along with the steak bites. They’ll absorb the delicious au jus and cook to tender perfection, minimizing your time and dishes in the kitchen.
- Try with Cream of Mushroom Soup: For a different gravy profile, consider swapping the au jus mix for a can of cream of mushroom soup combined with beef stock. This creates a wonderfully creamy and rich sauce. You can still thicken it with a cornstarch slurry if desired, and it pairs exceptionally well with mashed potatoes or egg noodles.
- Introduce a Little Spice: If you enjoy a touch of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the au jus and butter before covering the slow cooker to cook. This will infuse the delicious beef tips with just a slight, pleasant kick of warmth, adding another layer of complexity to the flavor.
Crockpot Steak Bites FAQ
Absolutely! Stew beef is an excellent choice for making delicious steak bites in the slow cooker. In fact, it often comes pre-cut into perfect bite-sized pieces, adding an extra layer of convenience as you won’t need to do any prior chopping before seasoning and searing. Its inherent toughness breaks down beautifully with slow cooking, resulting in incredibly tender beef.
Yes, you can certainly put raw, uncooked steak directly into a slow cooker. While searing the meat beforehand is highly recommended because it creates a flavorful crust and helps to lock in those delicious juices, it’s not strictly mandatory. If you’re pressed for time or simply prefer a more hands-off approach, you can skip the searing step and just dump the steak pieces and other ingredients into the crockpot right away. The resulting dish will still be quite tasty and tender, though it might have a slightly less robust and complex flavor profile compared to seared steak.
When it comes to slow cooking, cuts of beef that benefit from long, moist heat are ideal for the crockpot. Sirloin is a fantastic choice for steak bites due to its flavor and relatively quick tenderizing. Other excellent and often more budget-friendly options include round steak, pre-cut stew meat, or chuck roast. These cuts, which can sometimes be tough if cooked quickly, become incredibly fork-tender and flavorful when slow-cooked, making them perfect for this recipe.
If your beef turns out chewy after slow cooking, it’s almost always an indication that it hasn’t cooked long enough. Many cuts of beef that are suitable for slow cooking, like chuck or round, contain a lot of collagen and connective tissue. These need ample time and moisture to break down into gelatin, which is what gives slow-cooked beef its signature tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. If your steak bites are chewy, simply return them to the crockpot and continue cooking in 30-minute increments. Ensure there’s enough liquid in the slow cooker to keep the meat submerged and prevent it from drying out; add a little more broth if you need to. Continue cooking until the beef is undeniably fork-tender.
More Delicious & Easy Crockpot Recipes
- Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes (Philly Cheesesteak Style!) – A creative and incredibly satisfying twist on classic sloppy joes, this meal is guaranteed to be a huge hit with the entire family. It’s the perfect solution for those busy weekdays when you need a flavorful and hearty dinner with minimal effort.
- Crockpot Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken – This recipe delivers unbelievably tender and juicy chicken thighs coated in a sweet and savory brown sugar garlic sauce. It’s absolutely delicious served over a bed of fluffy white rice, making for a comforting and satisfying meal.
- Meatballs in Crockpot with Grape Jelly and BBQ Sauce – Prepare for the easiest and most flavorful party appetizer you’ll ever make! These meatballs are slow-cooked in a delightful sweet and tangy sauce, making them perfect for gatherings or a simple family dinner.
- Slow Cooker Hot Honey Chicken Sandwiches – A truly easy “dump-and-go” meal that combines succulent chicken with a perfectly balanced hot honey glaze. Pile it high on buns for a delicious and slightly spicy sandwich experience that requires almost no fuss.
- Crockpot Loaded Baked Potato Soup – Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this rich, creamy, and hearty soup. Packed with all the beloved flavors of a loaded baked potato, it’s the best way to enjoy a warm and satisfying meal on a chilly winter’s day.
Or view our entire collection of crockpot recipes for even more slow-cooking inspiration!
Crockpot Steak Bites
Author: Jaclyn
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Ingredients
- 3 pounds sirloin steak cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 Tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 small sweet onion thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic thinly sliced
- 1 cup unsalted beef stock
- 1 1 ounce packet au jus gravy mix
- 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter thinly sliced
- fresh chopped parsley for garnish optional
Instructions
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Place the cubed steak into a large bowl with the salt and pepper; toss to combine.
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Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add half of the oil. Sear the steak pieces in batches and place them into the slow cooker. Add more oil to the pan if needed.
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Once all the steak has been seared, add the onion and garlic to the slow cooker. Toss with the steak bites.
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Pour in the beef stock. Sprinkle with the au jus mix and top with slices of the butter.
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Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 3-4 hours or low 6-8 hours. Stir every 30 minutes or so, if you can. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley, if desired.
Notes
- Round steak, stew meat, or chuck roast can be used in place of sirloin.
- The searing step is optional but gives the steak bites more flavor.
- You can use unsalted beef broth in place of the beef stock if needed.
- Refrigerate leftovers for 3 days. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
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We hope you’re as excited as we are to try these incredibly easy and delicious crockpot steak bites! This recipe truly embodies the joy of home cooking – delivering rich flavors and tender textures with minimal fuss, making it perfect for both busy weeknights and relaxed weekend meals. Don’t forget to experiment with the variations and serving suggestions to make it uniquely yours. Happy cooking, and enjoy every flavorful bite!