Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Steak Bites Recipe

Introduction

Craving something that’s melt-in-your-mouth tender, packed with flavor, and requires minimal effort? Look no further than Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Steak Bites. This dish combines juicy steak bites with a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. The result? An irresistible meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, weekend gatherings, or even meal prepping for the week. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Equipment and Tools

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large skillet (for searing steak bites)
• Slow cooker
• Whisk or spoon (for mixing sauce)
• Serving dish

Preparing the Steak Bites

Selecting and Prepping the Steak

1. Choosing the Right Cut: Opt for sirloin steak or another tender cut like ribeye or tenderloin. These cuts work well for slow cooking and will remain juicy and tender.
2. Cutting the Steak: Cut the steak into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are uniform in size for even cooking.

Seasoning the Steak Bites

1. Season Generously: Sprinkle the steak bites with salt and pepper on all sides. This basic seasoning will enhance the natural flavor of the meat.

Cooking the Steak Bites

Searing the Steak Bites

1. Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2. Sear the Steak Bites: Add the steak bites to the skillet in a single layer. Sear for 1-2 minutes on each side, just until browned. You’re not cooking them through at this stage—just adding flavor.

Preparing the Honey Garlic Sauce

1. Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, beef broth, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Optional Thickening: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry and set it aside. This will be added later.

Slow Cooking the Steak Bites

Setting Up the Slow Cooker

1. Add to the Slow Cooker: Transfer the seared steak bites to the slow cooker.
2. Pour the Sauce: Pour the honey garlic sauce over the steak bites, ensuring they are well-coated.

Cooking Time

1. Low and Slow: Cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the steak bites are tender and infused with the flavors of the sauce.

Thickening the Sauce (Optional)

1. Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, during the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the cornstarch slurry. Allow it to cook and thicken.

Serving the Steak Bites

Plating and Garnishing

1. Transfer to a Dish: Carefully remove the steak bites from the slow cooker and place them on a serving dish.
2. Garnish: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and added flavor.

Pairing Suggestions

• Serve Over Rice: These steak bites are perfect served over a bed of white rice or quinoa, soaking up all that delicious sauce.
• Pair with Veggies: Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or green beans make excellent sides.
• Add a Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish.

Tips for Success

Choosing the Best Steak

• Tender Cuts Work Best: Sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin are ideal for this recipe. Avoid tougher cuts unless you plan to marinate them first.

Searing the Steak Bites

• Don’t Skip the Sear: Searing the steak bites before slow cooking locks in the juices and adds a depth of flavor that you won’t get otherwise.
• Use High Heat: Make sure the skillet is hot enough to sear the steak quickly without overcooking.

Adjusting the Sweetness

• Balance the Flavors: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of honey or add a bit more soy sauce or vinegar to taste.

Variations to Try

Spicy Honey Garlic Steak Bites

• Add Extra Heat: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a splash of sriracha to the sauce for a spicier kick.

Honey Garlic Chicken Bites

• Swap the Protein: This recipe works beautifully with chicken as well. Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breast cut into bite-sized pieces.

Asian-Inspired Steak Bites

• Add Asian Flavors: For an Asian twist, add a tablespoon of hoisin sauce or a splash of sesame oil to the honey garlic sauce.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Steak Bites are a game-changer for anyone who loves a hearty, flavorful meal with minimal prep time. The slow cooker does all the hard work, turning tender steak bites into a dish that’s bursting with the rich, sweet, and savory flavors of honey and garlic. Whether you’re serving it over rice, pairing it with vegetables, or enjoying it on its own, this recipe is sure to satisfy.

FAQs

Can I Use Frozen Steak?

Yes, but make sure to thaw the steak completely before cooking to ensure even searing and cooking.

How Long Can I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Can I Double the Recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients.

What Can I Use Instead of Cornstarch?

You can use flour or arrowroot powder as a thickening agent. Just mix it with water to create a slurry before adding it to the sauce.

Can I Make This Recipe on the Stovetop?

Yes, you can simmer the seared steak bites in the sauce on the stovetop over low heat for about 1-2 hours, or until tender.

Yield: 4

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Steak Bites Recipe

Print

Craving something that’s melt-in-your-mouth tender, packed with flavor, and requires minimal effort? Look no further than Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Steak Bites. This dish combines juicy steak bites with a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. The result? An irresistible meal that's perfect for busy weeknights, weekend gatherings, or even meal prepping for the week. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 4 hours

Total Time 4 hours 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 ½ lbs sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
• ⅓ cup honey
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 2 tablespoons water (optional, for cornstarch slurry)
• Sliced green onions and sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce:
   In a bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, ketchup, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, and black pepper.
   
2. Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker:
   Place the steak bites in the slow cooker. Pour the honey garlic sauce over the steak bites, ensuring they are well coated.
   
3. Cook the Steak Bites:
   Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the steak bites are tender.
   
4. Thicken the Sauce (Optional):
   If you prefer a thicker sauce, about 30 minutes before serving, mix the cornstarch with the water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the slow cooker and allow the sauce to thicken.
   
5. Serve:
   Garnish the honey garlic steak bites with sliced green onions and sesame seeds, if desired. Serve over rice, mashed potatoes, or with steamed vegetables.

Notes

Steak: Sirloin steak is ideal for this recipe, but other tender cuts like ribeye or tenderloin can also be used.

Adjusting Sweetness: For a less sweet version, reduce the amount of honey or balance it with a bit more vinegar.

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Serving Suggestions: These steak bites are delicious served with rice, noodles, or a side of vegetables. They can also be served as an appetizer at gatherings.