There’s something deeply comforting about the smell of garlic and butter filling the house on a chilly evening. You know dinner’s going to be rich, warm, and easy. These Quick Crock Pot Garlic Butter Steak Bites bring that same feeling, only with zero stress and all the flavor.
Table of Contents
Why These Crock Pot Garlic Butter Steak Bites Work So Well
Flavor and Texture Benefits
Garlic, butter, and beef create a combination that never fails. The slow cooker locks in moisture, and as the steak simmers, it soaks up every drop of buttery, garlicky goodness. The result? Tender, juicy bites that melt in your mouth.
Convenience for Busy Weeknights
You sear, set, and forget. That’s the magic here. Once the slow cooker lid goes on, you can walk away and still end up with a meal that tastes like you hovered over it for hours.
Who This Recipe Is Perfect For
This dish fits anyone craving comfort food without the chaos. It’s perfect for weeknights, family gatherings, or lazy Sundays when you still want something that feels special.
Ingredients You’ll Need for the Best Steak Bites
Steak Selection and Alternatives
Sirloin steak works beautifully here because it’s lean but tender. However, you can also use chuck or top round if trimmed properly.
Pantry Items and Flavor Builders
You’ll need salt, black pepper, neutral oil, sweet onion, garlic, beef stock, au jus gravy mix, and butter. These simple staples transform into an incredibly rich sauce as they cook together.
Optional Swaps and Substitutions
If you’re short on au jus mix, swap it for beef bouillon with a pinch of cornstarch or brown gravy mix. Use yellow or white onions if needed, though red onions will darken the sauce slightly.
How to Make Quick Crock Pot Garlic Butter Steak Bites (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prep and Season the Steak
Cut the sirloin into 1-inch cubes. Add salt and pepper, and toss until every piece is seasoned.
Step 2: Sear the Steak for Maximum Flavor
Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Quickly sear the steak bites in small batches. This step gives them a caramelized edge that deepens the flavor later.
Step 3: Load the Slow Cooker
Transfer the browned steak cubes into the slow cooker.
Step 4: Add the Liquid, Aromatics, and Butter
Add sliced onion and minced garlic, pour in the beef stock, and sprinkle the au jus mix over everything. Then, layer the butter pats on top.
Step 5: Slow Cook to Tender Perfection
Cover and cook on high for 3–4 hours or on low for 6–8 hours. Stir occasionally if possible. The steak bites will become tender and coated in a silky garlic butter sauce.
Step 6: Serve With Your Favorite Sides
Serve the steak bites and sauce over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. Each one soaks up that buttery gravy perfectly.
Tips for Success and Common Mistakes to Avoid
Getting the Perfect Sear
Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the meat. A good sizzle means a good crust. Don’t overcrowd the pan or the meat will steam instead of sear.
Preventing Tough or Dry Steak Bites
Avoid overcooking. If your steak bites finish early, switch the cooker to “warm” mode to keep them juicy.
Balancing Salt and Seasonings
Taste before adding extra salt—au jus mix already adds plenty of seasoning.
What to Serve With Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Classic Pairings
Mashed potatoes or buttery noodles are unbeatable. Their mild flavor complements the rich garlic butter sauce.
Lower-Carb or Lighter Options
Cauliflower mash or sautéed zucchini noodles make great low-carb swaps.
Vegetable Sides That Complement the Sauce
Try steamed broccoli, green beans, or a simple side salad. The sauce works like a dressing when drizzled lightly.
Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Guide
How to Store Leftovers
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing Instructions
Cool completely before freezing in a labeled container or bag for up to 3 months.
Best Ways to Reheat Without Drying Out
Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of beef broth or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring between each.
Recipe Notes and Helpful Variations
Ingredient Adjustments Based on What You Have
If using salted butter, reduce the added salt slightly. You can also substitute beef or chicken broth for beef stock, though the flavor may change.
Flavor Boosters and Add-Ins
Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a few red pepper flakes for an extra punch.
Adjusting for Dietary Needs
Use gluten-free au jus or gravy mix for a gluten-friendly option.
Estimated Nutrition Overview
Total calories: 2700–2900 kcal
Protein: 240–260 g
Fat: 200–220 g
Carbs: 20–30 g
FAQs About Crock Pot Steak Bites
How long to cook steak pieces in a slow cooker?
Cook on high for 3–4 hours or low for 6–8 hours.
How long does it take for steak to get tender in a crock pot?
Most cuts reach tenderness between 3 and 4 hours on high.
How to soften steak bites quickly?
Searing first helps lock in moisture, and cutting into small cubes speeds up tenderness.
Can I put raw steak in a slow cooker?
Yes, though searing adds deeper flavor, it’s safe to skip and cook raw directly.
More Such Recipes
- Creamy Tomato Ricotta Pasta Dinner
- Mushroom Stuffed Chicken Breast Easy Dinner
- Healthier Smoked Salmon Linguine Dinner
- Creamy Cottage Cheese Orzo Quick Dinner
- Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Dinner
- Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff Comfort Dinner
- Best Crockpot Chicken Alfredo Dinner

Conclusion
There’s a kind of magic that happens when garlic, butter, and beef meet in a slow cooker. It’s cozy, low-effort, and feels like a reward after a long day. Pair these Quick Crock Pot Garlic Butter Steak Bites with your favorite side, pour a drink, and enjoy the kind of dinner that feels homemade in the best way. For more comforting ideas, follow me on Pinterest and Facebook.
Print
Amazing Quick Crock Pot Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: High Protein
Description
Tender, buttery steak bites simmered in garlic and au jus inside your crock pot. A cozy, rich dinner perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
3 lb sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tsp coarse salt
1 tsp ground black pepper
1 tbsp neutral oil (such as vegetable oil)
1 small sweet onion, thinly sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup unsalted beef stock
1 oz au jus gravy mix
4 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into pats
Instructions
1. Cut the steak into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large bowl.
2. Season the steak with salt and pepper, mixing to coat evenly.
3. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the steak cubes in batches until browned on the outside but not fully cooked.
4. Transfer the seared steak to a slow cooker.
5. Add sliced onion and minced garlic to the slow cooker and stir gently.
6. Pour in beef stock and sprinkle the au jus gravy mix evenly on top.
7. Place the butter pats on top of the mixture.
8. Cover and cook on high for 3–4 hours or on low for 6–8 hours, stirring occasionally if possible.
9. Serve the steak bites and sauce over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
Notes
Sirloin is preferred for tenderness, but other cuts like chuck or top round can be used if trimmed.
Searing adds flavor but can be skipped if needed.
Au jus mix can be replaced with beef bouillon and cornstarch or brown gravy mix.
Neutral oils like canola or grapeseed are suitable alternatives.
Sweet onions can be replaced with yellow or white onions; red onions will change the sauce color.
If using salted butter, reduce added salt.
Beef or chicken broth can replace beef stock, though it may alter the flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 700
- Fat: 30
- Saturated Fat: 12
- Unsaturated Fat: 14
- Trans Fat: 0.5
- Carbohydrates: 4
- Fiber: 0
- Protein: 35
- Cholesterol: 125
