There is something truly irresistible about Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites that makes them an instant favorite in any household. These tender, juicy morsels of sirloin steak soak up a rich blend of garlic, butter, and savory au jus gravy, resulting in a comfort dish that’s both simple to prepare and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re craving a hearty weeknight dinner or something special to share with friends, these beef bites deliver warm, melt-in-your-mouth flavor that will keep everyone coming back for more.

Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for the Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites is delightfully straightforward. Each component plays a crucial role—from the robust sirloin bringing hearty texture, to the garlic and butter layering in rich, aromatic depth. The au jus gravy mix adds that classic, savory finish that transforms simple beef bites into a showstopper.

3 pounds sirloin steak: Cut into bite-sized pieces for tender, juicy bites that cook evenly and soak up flavors perfectly.
2 teaspoons kosher salt: Enhances the natural flavor of the beef without overpowering it.
1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and complements the rich butter and garlic notes.
1 tablespoon vegetable oil: Helps to sear the beef, locking in juices and creating a beautiful caramelized exterior.
1 small sweet onion: Thinly sliced for a mild, slightly sweet flavor and tender texture once slow-cooked.
3 cloves garlic: Thinly sliced to infuse the beef with a fragrant, buttery punch.
1 cup unsalted beef stock: Provides a savory liquid base that tenderizes the meat and forms the delicious sauce.
1 ounce au jus gravy mix: Adds that signature rich, beefy flavor with a glossy finish.
4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Thinly sliced and melted into the sauce for luxurious creaminess and a silky texture.

How to Make Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites

Step 1: Season and Prepare the Beef

Start by tossing your bite-sized sirloin pieces with kosher salt and black pepper in a large bowl. This simple seasoning step is essential—it ensures every single piece is perfectly flavored right from the start. Don’t rush here because evenly seasoned beef sets the foundation for all the deliciousness to come.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

Heat your skillet over medium-high heat and pour in the vegetable oil. Once the oil is shimmering hot, brown the beef pieces in batches to avoid overcrowding. You’re not cooking them through at this stage, just developing that gorgeous caramelized crust that adds depth and texture. This quick sear is one of the secrets to making your Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites extra special.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Transfer the seared beef bites into your slow cooker. Layer the thinly sliced sweet onion and garlic evenly over the top to infuse the dish with mellow sweetness and vibrant aroma. These ingredients soften beautifully during the slow cooking, mingling with the beef juices for a perfectly balanced dish.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Butter

Pour in the unsalted beef stock, then sprinkle the au jus gravy mix across the top. This combination forms a savory, flavorful broth that keeps the beef tender and juicy throughout cooking. Finally, lay thin slices of unsalted butter on top, which will melt slowly, enriching the sauce and adding a velvety finish.

Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover your slow cooker and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours, or low for 6 to 8 hours, stirring occasionally if possible. The slow, gentle heat transforms the beef bites into tender morsels bursting with garlic butter goodness. This step is where the magic really happens, melding all the flavors into an irresistible dish.

Step 6: Ready to Serve

Once cooked, your Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites are ready to be enjoyed. The beef should be tender, the sauce rich and buttery, and the overall aroma simply mouthwatering. This dish is comfort food at its finest.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of color and a touch of fresh herbaceous brightness to the rich beef bites. For a little extra indulgence, a few shavings of parmesan can bring in nutty, salty notes that pair beautifully with the buttery sauce.

Side Dishes

Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites truly shine alongside creamy mashed potatoes, tender egg noodles, or fluffy steamed rice. These simple sides soak up the luscious sauce perfectly, turning every bite into a comforting bite of pure joy.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving these beef bites over a bed of buttery polenta for a twist on the classic. You can also pile them onto toasted crusty bread to create gourmet beef sliders great for casual gatherings. A side of roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad balances the richness and keeps the meal well-rounded.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to deepen, making your next meal just as delicious, if not more so.

Freezing

If you want to keep these beef bites longer, freezing is a fantastic option. Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. They will maintain their flavor and texture for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw frozen beef bites overnight in the fridge, then warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of beef broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much to bring back that silky texture you love.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites?

Absolutely! While sirloin is perfect for its tenderness and flavor, you can also use chuck roast or other stew beef cuts. Just know that tougher cuts might need a little longer cooking time to become tender.

Is it necessary to sear the beef before slow cooking?

Searing the beef isn’t mandatory, but it makes a big difference. It creates a rich crust and deep color that adds layers of flavor, keeping your Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites from tasting flat or one-dimensional.

Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot instead of a slow cooker?

Yes! Use the sauté function to sear the beef, then cook on high pressure for about 35-40 minutes followed by a natural release. The result will be similarly tender and flavorful.

How do I know when the beef is done?

The beef is done when it is fork-tender and easily shredded or pierced without resistance. The slow cooking process breaks down connective tissue, so the longer cooking time yields melt-in-your-mouth bites.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

For a dairy-free option, simply omit the butter or use a plant-based butter alternative. The dish will still be delicious, though the sauce will have a slightly different richness without real butter.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a warm, comforting dish that feels like a big hug on a plate, you absolutely have to try Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites. It’s an easy recipe with simple ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Once you taste that tender, garlic-kissed beef swimming in buttery goodness, this recipe will quickly become a treasured favorite you’ll want to make again and again.

Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 22 reviews

Author: Olivia
Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes to 8 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

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Description

Tender and flavorful slow cooker garlic butter beef bites made with seared sirloin steak, sweet onions, garlic, and a rich au jus gravy, perfect for a comforting meal served over mashed potatoes, noodles, or rice.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

3 pounds sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 Tablespoon vegetable oil (may need more for browning)
1 small sweet onion, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1 cup unsalted beef stock
1 ounce packet au jus gravy mix
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, thinly sliced

Instructions

Season the Steak: Place the bite-sized sirloin steak pieces into a large bowl, season with kosher salt and black pepper, then toss well to evenly coat the meat with the seasoning.
Sear the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add vegetable oil. Once hot, brown the steak pieces in batches, searing them on all sides until they gain a deep brown color. The goal is to develop flavor and color, not to cook the steak through. Add more oil if necessary.
Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Transfer all of the seared steak pieces to a 6-quart slow cooker. Add the thinly sliced sweet onion and garlic, and gently stir to mix the ingredients together.
Add Liquids and Butter: Pour the unsalted beef stock evenly over the beef mixture. Sprinkle the au jus gravy mix on top, then lay thin slices of unsalted butter evenly along the surface.
Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours, or on low for 6 to 8 hours. Stir the mixture once every hour if possible to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
Serve: Once cooked, serve the garlic butter beef bites hot over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice for a satisfying and hearty meal.

Notes

You can use vegetable oil or any neutral oil with a high smoke point for searing.
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade beef stock or broth.
Stirring every hour helps prevent sticking and mixes flavors evenly but can be skipped if inconvenient.
The gravy from the au jus mix creates a flavorful sauce; adjust seasoning after cooking if needed.
Best served fresh but leftovers can be refrigerated up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 3-4 hours on high or 6-8 hours on low
Category: Dinner, Main Course
Method: Slow Cooking, Searing
Cuisine: American