Crockpot Mississippi Steak Bites are tender and full of flavor! This dish combines juicy steak pieces with zesty seasoning, making it a crowd-pleaser for dinner.
Cooking it in the crockpot means you can set it and forget it! I love coming home to a delicious smell that reminds me I’ll have no dishes to wash later. Who doesn’t like that? 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sirloin Steak or Chuck Roast: Both cuts work well! I prefer chuck roast because it becomes super tender in the crockpot. If you’re looking for a leaner option, sirloin is a great choice. You can also use flank or skirt steak if that’s what you have on hand.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This adds a ton of flavor! If you don’t have a packet, you can use homemade ranch seasoning made from a mix of dried herbs and spices. Alternatively, Italian seasoning can be an interesting twist, giving it a different flavor profile.
Au Jus Gravy Mix: This is key for a rich sauce, but you can use beef broth or stock instead if you prefer a lower-sodium option. Just mix in some cornstarch to thicken! You could also use a homemade beef gravy if time allows.
Pepperoncini Peppers: These bring in a nice tang! If you’re not a fan of heat, feel free to reduce the amount or switch to mild banana peppers. The juice adds acidity that balances the meal, so try to keep that even with less pepperoncini.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Tenderness in Your Crockpot Steak?
Getting that melt-in-your-mouth texture is a breeze with the crockpot! Here are some tips:
- Keep the lid on during cooking to retain moisture and heat.
- Cook on low heat for at least 4-5 hours – slower cooking breaks down the meat fibers effectively.
- Don’t rush the process! If the steak isn’t tender yet, give it a bit more time; every crockpot is a little different.
After cooking, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps keep the juices sealed in! Enjoy your meal with a hearty side for a filling experience.
Crockpot Mississippi Steak Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak:
- 2 pounds sirloin steak or chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
For the Seasoning:
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 packet (1 oz) au jus gravy mix
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Extras:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (1/2 stick)
- 6-8 pepperoncini peppers, sliced (reserve some juice)
- 1/4 cup pepperoncini juice (from the jar)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh green onions or parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 4-5 hours of cooking time on low in the crockpot. So you can set it in the morning, and by dinner time, you’ll have a delicious meal waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Steak:
Begin by cutting your sirloin or chuck roast into bite-sized 1-inch cubes. Pat the cubes dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help the seasonings stick better and give you a more flavorful dish!
2. Mix the Seasonings:
In a large bowl, combine the ranch seasoning mix, au jus gravy mix, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to blend everything together.
3. Coat the Steak:
Toss the steak cubes in the seasoning mixture until they’re evenly coated. Crank up the flavor by ensuring each piece is well-covered!
4. Transfer to Crockpot:
Now, it’s time to put everything in the crockpot! Transfer the seasoned steak cubes into the crockpot, making sure to spread them out evenly.
5. Add the Peppers and Juice:
Add the slices of pepperoncini peppers over the steak. Pour the pepperoncini juice from the jar all over the steak and peppers for that extra zing!
6. Add the Butter:
Dot the top of the steak and peppers with pieces of unsalted butter. This will melt and add richness to the dish as it cooks.
7. Cooking Time:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or until the steak is tender and cooked through. The low and slow method makes the steak super juicy!
8. Combine Flavors:
Once cooked, carefully stir the mixture gently to combine all the flavors nicely. Be cautious to avoid breaking up the steak too much.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with chopped fresh green onions or parsley before serving. This adds a nice pop of color!
10. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve your Mississippi steak bites with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread. These sides will soak up that flavorful sauce perfectly, making each bite delightful!
Enjoy these tender, zesty, and buttery steak bites, perfect for a comforting meal made effortless in your crockpot!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin and chuck roast are great options, you can also use flank steak or brisket. Just ensure the cut you choose is suitable for slow cooking to achieve that tender texture.
What Can I Use If I Don’t Have Ranch Seasoning Mix?
No worries! You can make your own by mixing equal parts of garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, and parsley. Italian seasoning can also work as a substitute for a different flavor profile.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stove over low heat. You can add a splash of beef broth to keep it moist while reheating!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers during the last hour of cooking for a complete meal! Just chop them into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly.