Amazing Quick Crock Pot Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe

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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.

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.

Juicy crock pot garlic butter steak bites served fresh in a white bowl over marble.

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

Close-up of garlic butter steak bites with parsley glaze
Close-up of tender garlic butter steak bites glistening in rich sauce and herbs.

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.

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Crock Pot Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Amazing Quick Crock Pot Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe


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  • Author: kai
  • 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

Scale

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

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