Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Steak

This Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Steak Bites recipe is one of those comfort meals that turns a simple cut of beef into something tender juicy and drenched in garlicky buttery sauce. When the weather turns chilly or I need an easy dinner that feels a little special I pull out this crowd-pleaser. These steak bites come out perfectly every time and make a satisfying meal paired with mashed potatoes rice or noodles.

I first made these on a chilly weekend when we were craving something hearty but easy and now it’s become our Sunday afternoon tradition. The recipe never fails to win rave reviews from everyone around our table.

Ingredients

• Sirloin steak: Look for marbled well-trimmed steak for the best tender bites You can also use round steak chuck or flat iron for great results and value
• Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential seasoning that enhances the beef’s natural flavor Use freshly cracked pepper for more punch
• Vegetable oil: Needed for getting that delicious seared crust on steak bites Choose a neutral high smoke point oil
• Sweet onion: Adds a mild savory sweetness that builds the base of the sauce Choose firm onions with shiny skin
• Garlic: Use fresh cloves for the fullest aroma and flavor Pre-minced garlic is convenient but fresh really shines here
• Unsalted beef stock: Provides richness for the sauce and keeps the steak juicy Opt for low sodium so you control the salt level
• Au jus gravy mix: Intensifies the flavor and gives a silky mouthfeel to the sauce Check labels for a mix without excessive additives
• Unsalted butter: Finishes the sauce for a glossy rich texture Always use unsalted so you can adjust seasoning to taste
• Fresh parsley: For garnish that pops with color and adds a fresh finish Always choose bright green unblemished bunches

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season and Toss:

In a large bowl combine your steak pieces with salt and black pepper Toss thoroughly so every bite is well seasoned and ready to brown

Sear the Steak:

Heat a skillet over medium high and add enough oil to lightly coat the bottom Sear steak bites in batches letting them brown without crowding the pan Turn each piece to get some golden color but do not cook them through Transfer seared bites to your slow cooker

Layer Everything In:

Scatter chopped sweet onion and minced garlic over the seared steak bites in the slow cooker Gently stir for even distribution

Pour and Sprinkle:

Carefully pour in the unsalted beef stock over everything Sprinkle the au jus gravy mix evenly and lay slices of unsalted butter across the top This ensures every bite is basted in flavor as it cooks

Slow Cook Low and Slow:

Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for six to eight hours or high for three to four hours The magic happens as everything simmers together and the beef becomes fork tender Try to give the pot a gentle stir once an hour if possible

Garnish and Serve:

Once finished give the steak bites a final stir and garnish with chopped parsley Serve them hot over mashed potatoes rice or egg noodles spooning plenty of sauce on top

Each time I make this I look forward to using fresh garlic It is the hero ingredient that transforms the sauce from basic to addictive When I serve this the smell of garlic and butter reminds me of family dinners at my grandma’s house where simple food was always made with love

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days For longer storage freeze portions in a bag or freezer safe container for up to three months Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove to keep the meat tender

Ingredient Substitutions

Sirloin works beautifully but round steak or chuck roast are budget friendly choices Flat iron steak gives a nice beefy flavor If you do not have au jus mix a little soy sauce and onion powder can be used in a pinch Chicken stock works if beef stock is unavailable

Serving Suggestions

My favorite way to serve these steak bites is over creamy mashed potatoes so the sauce can soak in They are also fantastic with buttered egg noodles or simple steamed rice Add a side of roasted veggies or a crisp green salad for a well balanced meal

Cultural and Historical Context

Slow cooker steak bite recipes like this one are rooted in classic American comfort food They borrow old fashioned pot roast techniques but speed things up with smaller cuts and bolder garlic butter flavor It is a modern update that honors family tradition while making weeknight dinners easier

Common Recipe Questions

→ What is the best cut for this steak dish?

Sirloin is preferred for its tenderness after slow cooking, but stew meat, round steak, chuck roast, or flat iron steak work well too.

→ Is searing the steak necessary?

Searing adds more flavor and color, but it can be skipped if you're short on time.

→ What sides complement these steak bites?

They're delicious with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles to enjoy the flavorful gravy.

→ Can I add herbs?

Yes, adding sprigs of thyme or rosemary infuses a bright herbal layer to the finished dish.

→ How long should the steak bites cook?

Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours; slow cooking yields the most tender meat.

→ How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for 3 months. Reheat in microwave, stovetop, or air fryer.