If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors yet incredibly easy to prepare, you’re going to love this Slow Cooker Mississippi Steak Bites Recipe. Imagine tender, juicy sirloin cubes simmered low and slow in a mouthwatering blend of buttery goodness, zesty ranch seasoning, au jus gravy, and just the right kick from pepperoncini peppers. This recipe makes the perfect comfort food that effortlessly combines simplicity with rich, unforgettable taste that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might be straightforward, but each one plays a crucial role in creating the unforgettable flavor and texture of this dish. From the tender sirloin steak to the tangy pepperoncini, everything has a part in the magic!
- 3 pounds sirloin steak (cubed into approximately 1-inch squares): Choose fresh sirloin for tender, juicy bites that soak up all the delicious flavors.
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided): Butter adds richness and helps achieve that luscious, silky gravy texture.
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth: Provides a savory base that keeps the steak moist and infuses it with deep beefy notes.
- 1 oz packet ranch seasoning: Brings an herby, tangy zest that enhances the flavor complexity.
- 1 oz packet au jus gravy mix: Intensifies the meaty taste and helps thicken the slow cooker sauce beautifully.
- 8 pepperoncini peppers: These little peppers add just the right amount of tangy, mild heat to balance the richness.
How to Make Slow Cooker Mississippi Steak Bites Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Steak Cubes
Start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once melted and shimmering, add your cubed sirloin steak. Sear the pieces on all sides for about 3-4 minutes until each cube is nicely browned. This initial browning step locks in flavor and juices, creating a beautifully caramelized crust that will make your steak bites irresistibly tasty.
Step 2: Layer the Steak in the Slow Cooker
Transfer the seared steak cubes into the slow cooker, making sure to pour in all those flavorful juices and melted butter lingering in the skillet. These simple additions deepen the flavor of your dish and keep every bite succulent throughout the long cooking process. Then, pour the beef broth evenly over the meat, forming the savory base for the gravy.
Step 3: Add Seasonings
Sprinkle the ranch seasoning packet and au jus gravy mix evenly over the top of the steak and broth. These mixes create a dynamic flavor profile, with the ranch seasoning bringing a herby brightness and the au jus providing a deep, meaty richness, both key to capturing the classic Mississippi taste everyone loves.
Step 4: Add Butter and Pepperoncini Peppers
Slice the remaining 6 tablespoons of butter and place the pieces evenly on top of the steak in the slow cooker. Nestle the pepperoncini peppers amidst the steak and butter. The pepperoncini infuse the dish with a subtle tangy heat and slight acidity that perfectly balances the creamy, buttery sauce.
Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection
Set your slow cooker to low and cook for about 6 hours. This low and slow approach allows the steak to become wonderfully tender while the sauce thickens into a rich, velvety gravy. If you can, give the mixture a gentle stir every couple of hours to ensure even cooking and flavor blending.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Mississippi Steak Bites Recipe
Garnishes
To finish off this flavorful dish, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley for a pop of bright color and fresh aroma. You might also add a few thin slices of green onion to enhance the savory notes and give your Slow Cooker Mississippi Steak Bites Recipe a touch of crispness and extra flavor.
Side Dishes
This hearty and rich dish pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy white rice to soak up the luscious gravy. For a lighter counterpoint, roasted vegetables or a crisp garden salad work beautifully, creating a well-rounded meal that satisfies every craving.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to add a fun twist? Serve your steak bites on toasted baguette slices as an appetizer or pile them on a soft sandwich bun topped with melted provolone cheese. This Slow Cooker Mississippi Steak Bites Recipe is versatile enough to become the star of casual dinners or party spreads alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which is lucky), let them cool to room temperature before sealing them in an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, your Slow Cooker Mississippi Steak Bites will stay delicious for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing
This recipe freezes surprisingly well! Portion the steak bites and gravy into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently either in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up and keep the steak juicy and tender.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin is great for tenderness and flavor, you can use other beef cuts like chuck or ribeye cubes. Just keep in mind cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat’s fat content and tenderness.
Do I need to sear the steak cubes before adding them to the slow cooker?
Searing is highly recommended because it locks in juices and builds a golden crust that adds depth to the flavor. But if short on time, you can skip the searing—your steak bites will still be tasty but with a slightly different texture.
What if I don’t have pepperoncini peppers on hand?
If pepperoncini are unavailable, mild banana peppers or pickled jalapeños can be used as a substitute. They provide a similar tangy heat that balances the rich, buttery sauce nicely.
Can this recipe be doubled or halved?
Yes! This Slow Cooker Mississippi Steak Bites Recipe is very adaptable. Just adjust the ingredient amounts accordingly and use a larger or smaller slow cooker depending on your batch size.
Is it possible to make this recipe without butter?
Butter definitely adds richness and helps thicken the gravy, but you can substitute with olive oil or a non-dairy butter alternative if needed. Just keep in mind the flavor profile may be slightly different.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Mississippi Steak Bites Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a cozy hug on a plate—comforting, flavorful, and so easy to pull together. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to become a beloved go-to. Don’t wait to experience how a handful of simple ingredients can transform into something truly special in your slow cooker. Give it a try—you won’t regret it!
Print
Slow Cooker Mississippi Steak Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Tender and flavorful cubed sirloin steak bites cooked low and slow in a rich, savory gravy infused with ranch seasoning, au jus gravy mix, and tangy pepperoncini peppers. This Slow Cooker Mississippi Steak Bites recipe offers a comforting and easy meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Meat
- 3 pounds sirloin steak, cubed into approximately 1-inch squares
Butter and Broth
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
Seasonings and Extras
- 1 oz packet ranch seasoning
- 1 oz packet au jus gravy mix
- 8 pepperoncini peppers
Instructions
- Sear the Steak: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cubed steak and sear for 3-4 minutes, turning to brown all sides evenly. This step seals in the juices and adds flavor.
- Transfer to Slow Cooker: Place the seared steak cubes into the bottom of a large slow cooker. Pour in any butter and juices left in the skillet to preserve flavor. Then, pour 1 cup of low-sodium beef broth over the steak.
- Add Seasonings: Evenly sprinkle the ranch seasoning packet and au jus gravy mix packet over the beef in the slow cooker.
- Top with Butter and Pepperoncini: Cut the remaining 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter into slices and arrange them on top of the beef, then add the 8 pepperoncini peppers around the top in the slow cooker.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for approximately 6 hours. The steak will become tender and the gravy will thicken. Stir gently every couple of hours if possible to distribute flavors.
Notes
- For best flavor, sear the steak cubes before slow cooking.
- You can adjust the number of pepperoncini peppers to control the tanginess and mild heat.
- Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
- Stirring occasionally during cooking helps thicken the gravy evenly.
