Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Steak Bites

If you’re craving a dinner that steals the show without stealing your whole evening, Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Steak Bites (+Video) are about to become your go-to magic trick. Think buttery, juicy steak morsels dissolving with sumptuous garlicky richness, all thanks to the slow cooker’s hands-off power. Whether you’re catering a Sunday family feast or prepping for an effortless weeknight treat, this recipe guarantees pure joy in every tender bite. The best part: a glorious payoff for minimal effort, leaving you more time for laughter and less time over the stove.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every element in this dish has a role—bold steak for texture, garlic for zing, and luscious butter as the flavor anchor. With just a handful of basics, each ingredient elevates the Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Steak Bites (+Video) into savory perfection you’ll want on repeat.

• Sirloin Steak: Go for 3 pounds, cut into bite-sized pieces; it delivers the ultimate juicy, tender chunks that shine in the slow cooker.
• Kosher Salt: Two teaspoons; coarse grains enhance flavor and help the meat stay juicy as it cooks low and slow.
• Black Pepper: One teaspoon; freshly cracked gives the best punch, balancing the richness of the butter.
• Vegetable Oil: A tablespoon (or more if needed); this high-heat oil is perfect for searing, ensuring gorgeous color and depth.
• Sweet Onion: One small, thinly sliced; sweet onion melts into the sauce, adding background sweetness and body.
• Garlic: Three cloves, thinly sliced; the star ingredient that infuses every bite with warm, aromatic flavor.
• Unsalted Beef Stock: One cup; creates the base for a luscious, savory sauce that soaks into every morsel.
• Au Jus Gravy Mix: One ounce packet; this shortcut delivers concentrated meaty flavor in the silkiest way.
• Unsalted Butter: Four tablespoons, thinly sliced; when melted, it forms the garlic-butter magic that defines the dish.

How to Make Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Step 1: Season the Steak Bites

Start by placing your sirloin chunks in a large bowl. Sprinkle over the kosher salt and black pepper, then toss everything together until each piece is beautifully seasoned on all sides. Taking a minute here ensures that every bite is deeply and evenly flavorful, setting the stage for some truly delicious steak bites.

Step 2: Sear for Flavor

Heat your largest skillet on medium-high and drizzle in the vegetable oil, letting it get rip-roaring hot. Working in batches, quickly sear the steak bites until they develop a rich, brown crust—don’t crowd the pan or they’ll steam instead! You’re not aiming to fully cook the meat here, just to build those delicious golden edges that add depth and a touch of smokiness.

Step 3: Layer Ingredients in Your Slow Cooker

Once all the steak is gorgeously browned, transfer the pieces into your slow cooker. Scatter the sliced onions and garlic on top, then give everything a gentle stir. This layering means the flavors meld, and the onions and garlic will practically melt into the sauce by the end of cooking.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Pour in the beef stock so it nestles into every nook and cranny. Then, sprinkle the au jus gravy mix evenly across the top for an effortless touch of rich, beefy flavor. Lastly, lay the slices of unsalted butter gently over everything. As it cooks, the butter will slowly melt, infusing the entire dish with that addictive garlic-butter allure.

Step 5: Set and Forget

Pop the lid on your slow cooker and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours, or low for 6 to 8 hours. Stir once an hour if you’re nearby (this helps all the flavors mingle and ensures even cooking). When it’s ready, the steak will be fork-tender, swaddled in that irresistible garlic-butter sauce. Serve hot and soak up the applause!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Steak Bites 

Garnishes

A quick shower of freshly chopped parsley adds a bright, fresh contrast to the luxurious sauce—plus it looks gorgeous on the plate. For a kick, sprinkle on a little cracked pepper or some finely sliced green onions.

Side Dishes

These steak bites beg to be paired with creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or even buttery egg noodles—something to soak up the dreamiest of sauces. Side salads or roasted veggies are perfect for adding crunch and balance to the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Steak Bites (+Video) into appetizers by serving them on toothpicks with a little drizzle of sauce in mini cups. Or, fill a hearty sandwich roll, top with melty provolone, and broil for an unforgettable steak sub. Don’t forget a few pieces in a bowl over polenta for a restaurant-worthy twist!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Steak Bites (+Video) store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Let the dish cool before transferring, and spoon over plenty of sauce to keep the meat juicy for round two.

Freezing

Want to save some for a future craving? Freeze cooled steak bites and sauce in zip-top bags or freezer containers for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.

Reheating

Warm your leftovers gently in a saucepan over low heat, or in the microwave with a splash of extra beef stock if needed. Stir occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating and to ensure the steak stays tender and moist.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Absolutely! While sirloin is classic for Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Steak Bites (+Video), flat iron or even stew meat work well. Just remember, the slow cooker is forgiving and tenderizes most cuts beautifully.

Do I really need to sear the steak first?

You can skip the searing to save time, but browning the meat adds caramelized flavor and a wonderful texture. If you’re in a rush, tossing the raw steak right in the slow cooker still results in tasty, tender bites.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes! Just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to hold all the ingredients. If necessary, extend the cooking time by an hour to ensure all the steak bites cook evenly and soak up that buttery sauce.

What’s the best way to make this dish gluten free?

Most ingredients are naturally gluten free, but check the label on your au jus gravy mix to be sure. Many brands offer gluten-free versions so everyone can join in on the Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Steak Bites (+Video) fun.

How do I keep the steak bites from drying out?

Make sure you don’t overcook them—aim for just tender, not falling-apart mushy. Also, always store with extra sauce and reheat gently to keep everything moist and flavorful.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to discover just how effortless and flavor-packed a slow cooker dinner can be, give these Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Steak Bites a spot on your table this week. I can’t wait to hear how much you and your loved ones enjoy every buttery forkful!

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