This Easy 5-Ingredient Crockpot Steak Bites Recipe is a winner for busy days! Just toss in some steak, seasoning, and a few other goodies, and let the crockpot do all the magic.
I love how tender and flavorful these bite-sized pieces become after slow cooking. It’s perfect for game day or a quick weeknight dinner with friends. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sirloin Steak: This cut is great because it’s tender and flavorful. If you’re looking for alternatives, ribeye works well too! You could also use boneless chuck for a more budget-friendly option, just know it may require a bit longer to get tender.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This adds a nice flavor kick. If you don’t have ranch seasoning, try using Italian seasoning or a mix of garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs for a different twist. You can even make your own ranch seasoning if you have the ingredients!
Beef Broth: It keeps the steak juicy and adds depth. If you’re short on beef broth, vegetable broth or even water can work, but the flavor might not be as rich. Consider adding a dash of soy sauce for more taste!
Worcestershire Sauce: This gives a unique savory flavor. Don’t have it? A splash of soy sauce or balsamic vinegar can work, but it will change the taste slightly. Still delicious either way!
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings great aroma and taste. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder could work too, using about 1/8 teaspoon for each clove of fresh garlic.
How Do I Make Sure the Steak Bites Are Tender?
To achieve tender steak bites, a few tips come in handy. First, cut your sirloin into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. This way, all the pieces cook at the same rate, making sure they’re tender together.
- Use low heat and cook for 3-4 hours. Slow cooking is your friend; it lets the meat break down nicely.
- Check for tenderness. If they seem tough, give them a bit more time. Every crockpot is slightly different!
- Avoid opening the lid too often while cooking, as it releases heat and can extend cooking time.
This gentle approach will yield deliciously tender steak bites every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy 5-Ingredient Crockpot Steak Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Essential Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 3-4 hours to cook on low in the crockpot. That means you can set it and forget it while you go about your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Steak:
Start by trimming any excess fat from the sirloin steak. This step ensures your steak bites are tender and not greasy. After that, cut the steak into bite-sized cubes, making sure they are about the same size for even cooking.
2. Assemble in the Crockpot:
Place the steak cubes in the bottom of your crockpot. This is where all the magic will happen, so make sure to spread them out evenly for the best results!
3. Season the Steak:
Now it’s time to sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix over the steak. This will give your bites that delicious, zesty flavor. Make sure to cover the meat well for the best taste!
4. Add the Liquid Ingredients:
Pour the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce over the seasoned steak. Then, add the minced garlic. These ingredients will help create a flavorful sauce as the steak cooks. Yum!
5. Mix It Up:
Gently stir everything together to combine the ingredients. This helps to ensure that the seasoning and flavors are evenly distributed among the steak bites.
6. Cook:
Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to low. Cook for 3-4 hours, or until the steak bites are nice and tender. You can check halfway through cooking but try to keep the lid closed to maintain the heat.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your steak bites are ready, gently stir them before serving. Enjoy them warm, either on their own or as a tasty addition to a meal. If you’d like, you can garnish them with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh touch. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Cuts of Meat?
Absolutely! While sirloin steak works great for its tenderness, you can also use cuts like ribeye or chuck. Just note that chuck may take a bit longer to tenderize, while ribeye will be rich in flavor.
What Can I Substitute for Ranch Seasoning?
If you don’t have ranch seasoning on hand, you can use a combination of garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs like dill and parsley for a similar flavor profile. Alternatively, Italian seasoning can also work in a pinch!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating. They also work great in wraps or salads!
Can I Cook This on High Instead?
Yes, you can cook the steak bites on high for about 2-3 hours instead of low. Just be sure to check for tenderness since cooking times can vary depending on your crockpot.
