Crockpot garlic butter steak has become my absolute go-to for a weeknight meal that feels incredibly special. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma of garlic and butter wafting from the slow cooker had my whole family gathering in the kitchen before it was even ready to serve. This slow cooker garlic butter steak recipe is so forgiving and results in the most tender, flavorful bites every single time. If you’re looking for an easy crockpot garlic butter steak that’s guaranteed to impress, you’ve found it. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Garlic Butter Steak

This recipe is a true winner for so many reasons. It’s incredibly simple to put together, making it perfect for busy nights. You’ll get that amazing, rich garlic butter flavor that everyone adores.

The taste is absolutely divine, a perfect balance of savory steak and aromatic garlic butter.
Prep time is minimal – just a quick sear and then let the crockpot do all the work!
It’s a surprisingly budget-friendly way to enjoy a steak dinner at home.
This dish is a guaranteed family pleaser; even picky eaters will ask for seconds.
You’ll achieve a wonderfully tender crockpot garlic butter steak that practically melts in your mouth.
Enjoy that truly melt-in-your-mouth crockpot steak experience without all the fuss.
It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that feels elegant yet is so easy to make.

Ingredients for Crockpot Garlic Butter Steak

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to an unforgettable meal. Here’s what you’ll need for this incredible crockpot steak and garlic butter creation:

3 lbs sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized chunks – I prefer sirloin for its tenderness, but feel free to use a similar cut.
1 teaspoon salt – essential for bringing out the steak’s natural flavor.
½ teaspoon black pepper – freshly ground pepper adds a nice bite.
¼ teaspoon garlic powder – a little extra garlic punch before cooking.
2 tablespoons olive oil, for searing beef – this helps get a beautiful crust on the steak.
6 garlic cloves, minced – the star of our rich garlic butter sauce! Don’t skimp here.
1 stick butter (8 tablespoons) – real butter is key for that luxurious garlic butter flavor.
¼ cup chopped parsley, for topping – adds a fresh, vibrant finish.

How to Make Crockpot Garlic Butter Steak

Let’s get this deliciousness going! Making this crockpot garlic butter steak recipe is surprisingly simple, and the results are absolutely worth it. The aroma alone will have you counting down the minutes until dinner.

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This initial sear is crucial for developing flavor and texture.
Step 2: Season the steak pieces generously with 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon garlic powder. Ensure each bite is coated for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want the pan nice and hot before adding the steak.
Step 4: Sear the steak bites for about 2–3 minutes on each side, just until nicely browned. The goal here is to create a beautiful crust, not to cook them through. You’ll see a lovely caramelization forming.
Step 5: Transfer these beautifully seared steak bites directly into your crockpot. This is where the magic of slow cooking begins.
Step 6: Add the 6 minced garlic cloves and the entire stick of butter (8 tablespoons) right on top of the steak in the crockpot. The butter will slowly melt, creating that luscious garlic butter sauce.
Step 7: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6–8 hours, or on high for 3–4 hours. The exact time will depend on your crockpot, but you’re looking for the steak to be incredibly tender. This is a key part of the crockpot garlic butter steak instructions.
Step 8: Once the steak is fork-tender, stir everything gently to combine the melted butter and garlic with the steak juices. This creates the perfect sauce for these garlic butter steak bites crockpot.
Step 9: Serve hot, garnished with ¼ cup chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy your incredible meal!

Crockpot Garlic Butter Steak: 1 Incredible Recipe - Close-up of seared steak bites in a skillet

Pro Tips for the Best Crockpot Garlic Butter Steak

I’ve made this dish more times than I can count, and these little tricks really elevate it to the next level. Trust me, a few extra steps make all the difference for the most amazing crockpot garlic butter steak.

Always sear your steak bites in batches. Overcrowding the pan will steam the meat instead of searing it, which is a crucial step for flavor development.
Don’t overcook the steak during the initial sear; it will continue to cook in the slow cooker. You just want a nice brown crust.
Use good quality butter! It’s in the name, and real butter makes a noticeable difference in the richness of the garlic butter sauce.
Taste and adjust seasonings before serving. Sometimes, depending on the saltiness of your steak and butter, you might need a little more salt or pepper.

What’s the secret to perfect crockpot garlic butter steak?

The real secret to a perfect best crockpot garlic butter steak is the initial sear. This caramelizes the outside of the steak, locking in juices and adding a depth of flavor that you just can’t achieve by throwing raw meat straight into the slow cooker. For more on the science of searing, you can check out resources on Maillard reactions.

Can I make crockpot garlic butter steak ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can! You can sear the steak and add all the ingredients to the crockpot the night before. Just refrigerate the whole insert and start it in the morning. It’s a great way to prep for a busy day.

How do I avoid common mistakes with slow cooker garlic butter steak?

The biggest mistake is not searing the steak first, which leads to blandness. Another pitfall is overcooking; check for tenderness towards the end of the cook time. Finally, make sure you use enough butter for that signature rich flavor!

Best Ways to Serve Crockpot Garlic Butter Steak

This melt-in-your-mouth crockpot steak is incredibly versatile. It’s perfect served over creamy mashed potatoes to soak up all that delicious garlic butter sauce. Another fantastic option is to serve it alongside roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus for a complete meal. For a truly satisfying experience, consider this a key part of a hearty crockpot steak recipe garlic butter steak pairing with a side of garlic bread to double down on the flavor. It’s also fantastic over rice or even tossed with pasta!

Nutrition Facts for Crockpot Garlic Butter Steak

This recipe yields about 6 servings, and while the exact nutritional values can vary based on your ingredients and portion sizes, here’s a general breakdown per serving of this delicious crockpot garlic butter steak. It’s a rich dish, so enjoy it as a treat!

Calories: 550-650 (estimates vary)
Fat: 35-45g
Saturated Fat: 15-20g
Protein: 40-50g
Carbohydrates: 5-10g
Fiber: 1-2g
Sugar: 2-4g
Sodium: 400-600mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Crockpot Garlic Butter Steak

I love knowing I can enjoy these amazing slow cooker garlic butter steak bites even after the initial meal. Properly storing and reheating ensures they stay just as delicious. Once your crockpot garlic butter steak has cooled down a bit, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. These containers are perfect for keeping the steak fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

For longer storage, these steak bites freeze beautifully. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap first, then in aluminum foil. This double layer helps prevent freezer burn. Properly stored this way, your slow cooker garlic butter steak bites can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, I recommend thawing them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

To reheat, I usually transfer the steak and sauce to a skillet over medium heat. This helps re-emulsify the sauce and keeps the steak from drying out. You can also gently warm them in the microwave. If the sauce seems a bit thick, don’t worry! Just add a splash of broth or a little extra butter to reach your desired consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot Garlic Butter Steak

How do I make crockpot garlic butter steak with the best flavor?

To achieve the best flavor, always start by searing the steak bites before adding them to the crockpot. This caramelization is key. Also, don’t be shy with the garlic and butter; they are the stars of this flavorful crockpot garlic butter steak dish. Using fresh, quality ingredients makes a significant difference.

Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

While sirloin is fantastic, you can certainly experiment with other cuts. Beef chuck roast or even brisket can work, though they might require a slightly longer cooking time to reach that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Just ensure the meat is cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

What can I serve with my crockpot garlic butter steak?

This dish is incredibly versatile! It pairs wonderfully with classic sides like mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or creamy polenta, all of which are perfect for soaking up the luscious garlic butter sauce. For a lighter option, consider serving it with steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a fresh side salad. Thinking about how to make crockpot garlic butter steak part of a complete meal is easy with so many delicious pairings.

How do I ensure my steak doesn’t get tough?

The trick to tender steak in the slow cooker is not to overcook it. While slow cooking is forgiving, checking the steak towards the earlier end of the suggested cook time (around 3-4 hours on high or 6 hours on low) is a good idea. The initial sear also helps retain moisture, contributing to a tender outcome.

Variations of Crockpot Garlic Butter Steak You Can Try

While this recipe is fantastic as is, I love playing around with it to create different flavor profiles. If you’re looking for a simple slow cooker garlic steak, there are so many ways to adapt this base. Here are a few ideas I’ve tried that turned out wonderfully!

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño along with the garlic and butter. It gives the steak a wonderful warmth without overpowering the garlic butter flavor.
Creamy Mushroom Finish: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic before adding them to the crockpot. Stirring in a dollop of sour cream or a splash of heavy cream at the end of cooking creates a rich, creamy sauce.
Herb Garden Delight: Experiment with different fresh herbs! Rosemary or thyme are wonderful additions alongside the parsley, or try stirring in some chives for a mild oniony flavor.
Lemon Zest Brightness: A bit of fresh lemon zest stirred in right before serving can cut through the richness of the butter and add a lovely brightness to the dish.