I recall one rainy afternoon when I got home late from errands. My family was hungry, and I had steak in the fridge. I tossed it into the slow cooker with simple items from my pantry. Hours later, the house smelled amazing, and dinner was ready without stress. That moment showed me how this recipe saves the day.
This recipe makes tender steak bites in a savory gravy. It uses basic ingredients. You get juicy meat that falls apart. Serve it over mashed potatoes or rice for a full meal.
Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 6 hours on low Total time: 6 hours 15 minutes Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 2 pounds sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
- 1 packet au jus gravy mix
- 1 packet onion soup mix
- 4 tablespoons butter, cut into pats
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for thickening, optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cut the steak into 1-inch cubes. Trim any fat. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak cubes in batches for 2-3 minutes until browned. This step adds flavor but you can skip it.
- Place the seared steak in the slow cooker.
- Add sliced onion and minced garlic on top of the steak.
- Pour in beef broth. Sprinkle au jus gravy mix and onion soup mix over everything.
- Place butter pats on top.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir once halfway if possible.
- If you want thicker gravy, mix cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water. Stir into the slow cooker in the last 30 minutes. Cook on high until thickened.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Why This Recipe Works
Slow cooking breaks down tough steak fibers. You end up with soft bites full of taste. The gravy forms from broth and mixes. It soaks into the meat. This method fits busy days. Set it in the morning. Come home to a hot meal.
Common questions: What steak cut works best? Sirloin or chuck for tenderness. Can I add veggies? Yes, try mushrooms or carrots. How long on high? 3-4 hours.
Substitution Ideas
- Use chuck roast or round steak instead of sirloin.
- Swap beef broth for vegetable broth if needed.
- Replace onion soup mix with dried herbs like thyme and rosemary.
- For gluten-free, check packet labels or make your own mix with spices.
- Lipton Onion Soup Meatloaf Recipe for more ways to use onion soup mix.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
Make ahead: Prep steak and onions the night before. Store in the fridge. Add to slow cooker in the morning with liquids.
Reheat on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of broth if dry.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with mashed potatoes to soak up the gravy. Add a side of green beans for color. Try over rice or egg noodles.
For veggies, link to our Crack Green Beans Recipe or Canned Green Bean Recipes.
Tips and Variations
Tips: Sear meat first for better taste. Cook on low for the most tender results. Stir gently to avoid breaking bites.
Variations: Add sliced mushrooms for earthy flavor. Mix in bell peppers for color. For spice, add red pepper flakes.
Try a cheesy twist: Stir in shredded cheese at the end. Or make it with potatoes inside for a one-pot meal. Southern Mac and Cheese Recipe for a cheesy side.