Crockpot Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe

Cook Time: 360 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 (1 ounce) packet au jus seasoning
• 3 pounds chuck roast, cut into 1 to 1 1/2-inch cubes
• 1 tablespoon steak seasoning
• 1/4 cup butter
• 8 cloves garlic, minced (or more to taste)
• 3/4 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Directions

1. Place sliced onions at the bottom of a slow cooker. Sprinkle with au jus seasoning.
2. In a separate bowl, toss the beef cubes with steak seasoning, then layer them on top of the onions in the slow cooker.
3. Top the beef with butter and minced garlic. Pour the beef broth around the edges of the mixture.
4. Cover and cook on Low for about 6 hours, or until the meat is tender and fully cooked.
5. Before serving, stir in the fresh parsley for added flavor and freshness.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	384
Total Fat	26g (33% DV)
Saturated Fat	12g (59% DV)
Cholesterol	125mg (42% DV)
Sodium	474mg (21% DV)
Total Carbohydrate	4g (1% DV)
Dietary Fiber	0g (2% DV)
Protein	34g (69% DV)
Vitamin C	2mg (3% DV)
Calcium	44mg (3% DV)
Iron	3mg (18% DV)
Potassium	475mg (10% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

The History of Crockpot Garlic Butter Steak Bites

The origins of crockpot garlic butter steak bites are rooted in the mid-20th century rise of slow cooking in American households. The electric slow cooker, or "crockpot," was introduced in the 1970s, providing a convenient way to prepare hearty meals without constant supervision. Combining tender chunks of beef with butter, garlic, and simple seasonings became popular because it offered both rich flavor and minimal preparation time. Over decades, home cooks adapted traditional pan-seared steak bites into slow-cooked variations, allowing even tougher cuts of beef, like chuck roast, to transform into melt-in-your-mouth morsels.

Regional Variations

While the dish is primarily associated with American comfort cuisine, regional adaptations exist. In the Midwest, it is often paired with mashed potatoes or buttered noodles, emphasizing the hearty, filling aspect of the meal. Southern variations may include smoked paprika or cayenne in the seasoning for a subtle heat. Some coastal areas incorporate local herbs or even a splash of wine in the broth to elevate the flavor. Regardless of region, the core ingredientsbeef, garlic, butter, and brothremain consistent, showcasing the dish's versatility.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Crockpot garlic butter steak bites differ from traditional steak bites or beef stew in several ways. Unlike pan-seared steak bites, which are cooked quickly at high heat, this crockpot version relies on slow cooking to tenderize the meat. Compared to beef stew, the recipe uses fewer vegetables and emphasizes the garlic-butter sauce rather than a thick, gravy-heavy broth. This distinction creates a rich, silky coating on the beef, making it more indulgent and flavorful without overwhelming other components of the meal.

Where It Is Commonly Served

This dish is often served in home settings, especially for family dinners and casual gatherings. Its ease of preparation makes it ideal for weeknight meals, while the presentationgolden-buttered beef chunks over mashed potatoes or cauliflowerfits comfortably on holiday or special occasion tables. Some restaurants and bistros feature a refined version, pairing it with artisan bread or roasted seasonal vegetables. Its universal appeal lies in its simplicity and rich, savory taste.

Interesting Facts

• The slow-cooking method allows even budget-friendly cuts like chuck roast to develop flavors typically found in expensive steaks.
• Adding garlic directly to the butter before slow cooking creates a caramelized aroma that infuses the beef throughout the cooking process.
• Using au jus seasoning in the crockpot enhances the natural beef flavor while keeping the sauce thin enough to drizzle over sides.
• Though often served over mashed potatoes, creative variations include serving it atop pasta, rice, or even roasted vegetables.
• The dish is popular in meal prep culture because it can be cooked in large batches and stored in the refrigerator or freezer for easy reheating.

FAQ about Crockpot Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe

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